YMCA Stories

WARNING: This story contains content about mental illness.  As the COVID-19 pandemic was approaching, a teenager was struggling. Over the past several years, this young person has been in hospital numerous times because of disordered eating and thoughts of harming themself.

Position:Health & Wellness, LiveWell Supervisor

Meet Mardo.In 1984, Mardo left Costa Rica to come to Canada and wound up in Hamilton, Ontario.

Position: Language Assessor, Immigrant Services

It’s a problem hiding in plain sight. Often victims are groomed and lured, and they don’t know they’re in a bad situation until it’s too late. 

The pandemic was a turning point for Myles. 

It was trust that opened the door for Kayla* to start rebuilding her life. 

Have you met Matt Fox? If not, you should. Matt is 43 years old and he’s one of the longest-attending campers at YMCA Wanakita.

Meet Chris & Amy, the father-daughter duo who are celebrating one-year of weightlifting together at the YMCA.