Wayne Perkins: A Legacy of Visionary Leadership and Community at the YMCA

In the summer of 1954, a ten-year-old Wayne Perkins arrived at YMCA Camp Wakonda in Saskatchewan.  

This experience would mark the beginning of a lifelong journey within the YMCA, eventually leading Wayne to become a prominent leader whose influence reached far beyond Canadian borders. His journey, grounded in the values of inclusivity, respect, responsibility, honesty, and caring, has left an indelible mark on YMCA communities across Canada and beyond.

A Life Lived by YMCA Values

For Wayne, the YMCA was more than just an organization; it was a way of life. Known for signing off his voicemail messages with "Have a great YMCA day," Wayne embodied the YMCA's core values in everything he did. From his early years as a camper to his role as CEO of YMCA Calgary and later President and CEO of YMCA Canada, Wayne’s leadership style remained consistently humble and service oriented.

“He always did what was right,” said his wife, reflecting on Wayne’s guiding principles. His dedication to community and compassionate approach often meant making difficult decisions. His empathy and deep sense of responsibility were characteristics that set him apart, making him a respected figure within and outside the YMCA.

The Power of Youth Voice and Outdoor Education

Wayne’s YMCA career began in earnest when he took on the role of camp director at YMCA Wanakita in Ontario. He established the Camp’s now renowned Second Year Student Counsellor (SC) program which focused on the cultivation of leadership skills and fostered a new generation of camp leaders. This program has become a defining feature of the camp experience, cultivating leaders who go on to make meaningful contributions at YMCA Camp Wanakita, in their communities and workplaces.

Wayne’s approach was ahead of its time—he believed that youth should be actively involved in decision-making about their camp experiences. “He wanted kids to be part of the decision-making process, not just passively participate.” Such empowerment cultivated a sense of ownership and responsibility in young campers and student counsellors, which translated into lifelong skills and leadership qualities. This philosophy of youth engagement and empowerment became a hallmark of Wayne’s leadership style.

He also provided equal opportunities within Wanakita for girls, introduced outdoor education programs while developing both the staffing and facilities to accommodate this year-round model.

Wayne’s innovative programs not only expanded Wanakita's reach but also influenced other YMCA camps across Canada to adopt similar principles.

YMCA Wanakita remained dear to Wayne’s heart. He returned regularly over the years, to connect with friends and the leadership teams, celebrate the Camp’s growth and development, offer his counsel when asked, and simply to enjoy walking along the shores of Koshlong Lake.

Visionary Leadership at YMCA Calgary

Wayne’s leadership journey continued in Calgary, where he served as CEO for over two decades. Under his stewardship, YMCA Calgary flourished, expanding its reach and solidifying partnerships that would shape the community for years to come. One of his most significant projects was the establishment of the Shawnessy YMCA within an ambitious facility that integrated a high school, a public library, community spaces and arenas, all under one roof—a revolutionary model that epitomized Wayne’s forward-thinking approach.

“Wayne was the right person at the right time for Calgary,” a long-time board member noted. Wayne’s leadership was both strategic and inclusive. He was known for articulating his vision clearly, inviting people to contribute, and empowering them to bring ideas to life. His unique, people-centered leadership style—described by many as collaborative and inclusive—enabled his team to thrive and made YMCA Calgary a leader in community engagement.

A Global Impact and the Next Chapter

Wayne also expanded the organization’s influence globally. He spearheaded partnerships in Malaysia, Bogota, and Ukraine, emphasizing a collaborative approach that encouraged local YMCA chapters to think globally while acting locally. His vision was one of a connected YMCA community where people worked together across borders to strengthen societies and foster youth development.

In 2009, after a short time in Toronto, as President and CEO of YMCA Canada, Wayne retired and entered this next phase of life training to complete an Ironman Triathlon. It consists of a 2.4-mile (3.9 km) swim, a 112-mile (180.2 km) bike ride and a marathon 26.22-mile r(42.2 km) run completed in that order, a total of 140.6 miles. (226.3 km). It is widely considered one of the most difficult one-day sporting events in the world.

Today, his family and supporters are honouring his legacy with the creation of a Leadership Centre at YMCA Wanakita. This centre, envisioned as a hub for leadership development and community building, will provide a permanent home for the camp’s leadership programs and serve as a tribute to Wayne’s life’s work.

A Lasting Legacy of Service and Community

Wayne Perkins’ life was defined by his commitment to the YMCA’s mission and values. His legacy continues to inspire not only his family and friends but also the countless individuals whose lives he touched through his visionary leadership. As the YMCA community moves forward with plans to establish the Leadership Centre, it is clear that Wayne’s spirit of inclusivity, compassion, and dedication to service will live on, fostering new generations of leaders who are as committed to making a difference as he was.

Reflecting on his impact, his wife shared a sentiment that encapsulates Wayne's legacy: “Wayne always did the right thing. He was a good person who saw leadership as a way to serve others. He didn’t need the recognition; his greatest reward was seeing the community grow stronger together.”

With the Leadership Centre on the horizon, Wayne’s life and legacy serve as a reminder that true leadership is about lifting others and building a brighter, more inclusive future—one YMCA day at a time.

Invest in Tomorrow: YMCA Wanakita’s Centre for Youth & Leadership Excellence

The Leadership Centre at YMCA Wanakita is set to be the future of an established leadership program that has inspired and empowered youth for over 50 years. This Centre will elevate training, bridging critical gaps in youth development by providing an inclusive space for mentorship, learning, and growth. Honouring Wayne Perkins’ legacy, it ensures that generations continue to benefit from transformative leadership experiences.

Your support can make a lasting impact. Contributions can be directed toward specific areas within the Leadership Centre or given broadly to support the project as a whole. Donor recognition opportunities, such as naming rooms or spaces, are available. Ways to give include one-time donations, monthly pledges, electronic transfers, gifts of securities, or bequests.

Join us in bringing this vital vision to life and invest in the leaders of tomorrow. Together, we can build a stronger future.