You have full control over your monthly gift. You can adjust the amount, change the payment date, or cancel at any time by contacting our giving team at giving@ytr.ymca.ca or 519-501-5484.

Monthly giving allows you to spread your support throughout the year in manageable amounts. It's a convenient way to budget your charitable giving while making a significant impact. Plus, you'll receive a single consolidated tax receipt at year-end for easier record-keeping. Providing a stable and predictive source of funding, monthly donations allow us to plan and implement programs more effectively, focusing on long-term strategies that address our community's evolving needs. It also reduces paperwork, processing time and administrative costs. Ready to set up a monthly gift? Get started here.

You can make a secure online gift to some of our most popular designations by using the links below. Greatest Needs Youth Programs Camp Health Management Health and Wellness If you would like to give to a different area, program or capital project or to discuss personalized giving options please contact: Lisa Hood Vice President, Philanthropy, Marketing and Communications lisa.hood@ytr.ymca.ca (519) 897-4606

Yes! Although there are some exceptions such as event ticket purchases and auction item purchases, most donations are tax deductible. If you make a monthly gift, your tax receipt will be consolidated and sent at the end of the year for ease at tax time. YMCA of Three Rivers Charitable Number: BN 11930 7098 RR0001

In 2023 we were able to provide financial assistance to 5,550+ individuals, keeping the Y as accessible as possible. We are so grateful to our donors who help make this possible. You can make a secure online gift to Health & Wellness here and direct your donation to fee-assistance.

Legacy giving is a powerful way to extend your support of the YMCA of Three Rivers beyond your lifetime. It's a form of charitable donation that's planned now but allocated at a future date, usually in your Will, life insurance policy or retirement assets. When making a planned gift you will become part of the YMCA of Three Rivers Heritage Club, celebrating and recognizing our legacy donors who support our mission for generations to come. Our Heritage Club also serves to inspire others to consider a planned gift supporting our long-term goals. Visit our Legacy Giving page for more details. Or to speak with someone about your options for making a planned gift and joining the YMCA of Three Rivers Heritage Club please contact us at giving@ytr.ymca.ca.

To include the YMCA of Three Rivers in your estate plans, you will need the following information: Legal name: YMCA of Three Rivers (Midwestern Ontario)  Charitable Registration Number: YMCA of Three Rivers - 11930 7098 RR0001 YMCA of Three Rivers Foundation – 84685 0030 RR0001 Address: Chaplin Family YMCA, 250 Hespeler Rd, Cambridge, ON N1R 3H3  Contact us with any questions at giving@ytr.ymca.ca. We recommend consulting with your legal or financial advisor to ensure the gift aligns with your overall estate plan.

We respect and honor your privacy. If you prefer to remain anonymous, simply let us know. You can still be part of the Heritage Club without public acknowledgment, and we will ensure your wishes are followed.

Creating a will is an important step in protecting your loved ones and ensuring your wishes are fulfilled. To get started, you can use Willfora, an easy-to-use online tool that allows you to create a legally binding will for free. If you're interested in leaving a gift to the YMCA, Willfora makes it simple to include us in your plans. Visit https://give.willfora.com/charities/ymca-three-rivers to begin, or contact us at giving@ytr.ymca.ca if you need any assistance.

Our team is here to help! You can reach out to our Philanthropy Partner, Tara McNeice, at tara.mcneice@ytr.ymca.ca. We are happy to provide guidance and discuss how your gift can leave a lasting legacy in our community.

No you don’t! Regardless of whether your Will is drafted using an online service like WIllfora or through a lawyer, you’re creating an adult-witnessed Will. This means that you need two witnesses (refer to the first page of your Will for who these witnesses can and can’t be) to sign and ensure that your Will becomes a legal document. However, if you do require legal advisory, it’s always recommended that you see a lawyer. While online services like Willfora can address the needs of the vast majority of people with simple estate requirements, there are some limitations where hiring a lawyer is necessary.

Donations to the YMCA of Three Rivers directly support current programs and initiatives, meeting the immediate needs of our community. Contributions to the YMCA of Three Rivers Endowment Foundation are invested to generate ongoing income, ensuring that our programs and services are sustainable for future generations. Both forms of giving are vital, and your decision depends on whether you want to create an immediate or lasting impact.

Yes, if you have informed us of your legacy gift intentions, you are part of the Heritage Club! This exclusive group honors individuals who have committed to supporting the YMCA's future through planned giving. If you haven’t already, please let us know so we can welcome you!

Stratford YMCA Mondays 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. September 16 – December 16, 2024

If your child has participated in swim lessons at a YMCA of Three Rivers location, watch this short video to learn how to find their report cards and swim level.

Yes, an active (not on hold) YMCA of Three Rivers membership is required to register for programs. One weekly group swim lesson is included in each child's membership. Learn more about our membership options. Private swim lessons are available to non-members, however members receive a discount on the cost of private lessons.

Registration for the Fall 2024 to Summer 2025 session of group swim lessons will open on Thursday September 5 at 11:00 a.m. Registration for the Fall 2024 session of private swim lessons will open on Tuesday September 10 at 11:00 a.m. Throughout the year, participants can register for programs at any time, so long as there is space available in the program.

Each child's membership includes one weekly group swim lesson, and unlimited recreational programs. Private swim lessons can be purchased in addition to the weekly group swim lesson.

Fall 2024 programs will be available to view on the program schedule by Monday, August 19. Programs can be viewed on the program schedule or through your member portal. Make sure to change the dates on the program schedule to the week of September 16 to see fall programs, or use the links below to view specific programs. If you are already logged into your member portal, please note that the links below will only show classes at your home club by default. If you would like to view programs at other locations, use the Filter By Club drop down menu to select the Health and Wellness Location where you would like to register. Click to view schedules: Swim Lessons Splasher and Bubbler Swim Lessons (Ages 0 – 2) YMCA Preschool Swim Lessons (Ages 3 – 5) Learn to Swim Lessons (Ages 6 – 12) Star 1 – 6 Swim Lessons (Ages 6 – 12) View all group Swim Lessons View all Private Swim Lessons

No, your membership must be active to register for programs. If you register for programs and then place your membership on hold, or place your membership on hold during the session, you will be automatically removed from all registered programs. Once your membership is no longer on hold, you can re-register if space is available.

Camp Conestogo Location: 5422 Jones Base Line, Guelph, ON N1H 6J1 Located at Guelph Lake, Camp Conestogo offers lakefront fun, forest adventures, and exciting activities. Campers enjoy swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and exploring the large forested area with nature hikes, games, and campfire building. Site Highlights: Sandy beach with lake swimming Canoeing and kayaking Low ropes course Archery Gaga ball Nature games

Registration for swim lessons is based on your child's age and swim level. If your child is age 0 to 5, register for the program indicated in the chart below. If your child is age 6 to 12, first determine their swim level, and then use the chart below to determine the appropriate program. If your child has participated in swim lessons at the YMCA, watch this short video to learn how to find their swim level. If your child has participated in swim lessons at another facility, use the swim level conversion chart to find the corresponding YMCA swim level. If you're still not sure which program to register for, please use our swim level assessment tool or contact us.

For mass registration in preparation for the new Fall 2024 to Summer 2025 session, registration will be available online through the member portal. Staff will also be available in-person at our Health and Wellness locations to assist families in completing their online registration, or to complete registration for those who do not have access to online registration. We encourage families to register online, if they are able, to help streamline our registration process, and we are making further improvements to our system this year to ensure a smooth online registration process. Throughout the year, registration is available online through your member portal, and in person at any of our Health and Wellness locations.

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The preferred method of contacting your camper while at camp is by mail or email. You are welcome to send a letter, care package, or email to your camper and feel free to suggest other family and extended family members do so as well. It's exciting for campers to receive mail, and beneficial to receive contact from home. Please keep the letter upbeat though; if you have news that could be seen as worrying or sad, it's probably best to share it in person, once your camper returns home. You are welcome to send your camper a care package with food, but please send snacks that are nut-free and stored in a container that will not attract animals One-Way Email While your child is at camp you can send an email camp and we will print your email for your child to read. Please be sure to have your child’s name and cabin in the subject line so we know which mailbox to put it in. Phoning and Emailing our Office During the summer our office staff is available to assist you from 9 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. During meals and special programs our office staff may step out of the office and will return phone calls and emails as soon as possible when they return. Please note that these phone numbers and email addresses are only maintained May to August. If you require year-round assistance please email camp@ytr.ymca.ca or call 519-699-5100.

Waterfront staff are trained and qualified by the Lifesaving Society. All campers undergo a waterfront screening to determine their swimming ability on the first day of camp. They also learn the waterfront rules, procedures, and schedule of swim times. All campers and staff must wear personal flotation devices (PFDs) at all times in all boats.

Call 519-699-5100 or email campkiway@ytr.ymca.ca, campwabanaki@ytr.ymca or campbelwood@ytr.ymca.ca for help finding lost items. Please label your camper’s belongings to ensure lost items can be returned. Did you know you can support your camp while ordering your camper's labels from Mabel's Labels? Start here: https://mabelslabels.ca/en_CA/fundraising/support/ Search for your camp Happy shopping!

Expectations LITs and CITs learn quickly that they are held to greater level of accountability than campers. Camp Staff expect LITs and CITs to act responsibly and respectfully in all situations, especially when interacting with campers, camp staff, and fellow participants. LITs and CITs are expected to challenge themselves by always putting their best effort forward, to follow rules, and to take responsibility for their actions. The programs offer a great opportunity for your camper to learn more about themselves, to have fun, to learn how the actions of an individual can affect others, and to experience and benefit from the positive camaraderie that naturally occurs when a group of like-minded people work to achieve a common goal. Evaluations LITs are evaluated based on a number of factors throughout the month. Although the program continues to rely heavily on skill development, the most important factor in your LIT experience is that you are willing and eager to learn, and that you actively participate in all activities. Although we hope you can solo a canoe and scale the climbing wall by the end of your time with us, there is nothing more important than trying your best. If a final evaluation is an unsatisfactory, they may not be invited back the following year to apply for a CIT or Camp Staff role. Swim Wear Recommendations Swim wear is practical and durable for vigorous training in the water, on land during rescues, and lifesaving drills. Please choose a bathing suit that is comfortable and of a good fit. Two-piece swim suits are acceptable, but please be sure it has a sports-style top and bottom. Clothing and Laundry LIT laundry will be sent to a laundry service once during the month, and the cost will be deducted from their tuck account. We highly recommend towel service for all LITs. With near-constant activity and unpredictability of weather, keeping towels clean, dry, and accounted for is an ongoing challenge at camp. We are pleased to offer this service that cuts down on lost and found, and soggy, sandy towels soiling clean and dry belongings.

At YMCA of Three Rivers Camps, we aim to support each and every camper during their time at camp, and strive to create an environment that supports not just the physical health of campers, but also their social, emotional, and mental health and wellbeing. We recognize that each camper has a unique perspective, and comes from a diverse range of backgrounds, home experiences, and family experiences. If you have any information you wish to share about your camper prior to arrival, we encourage you to include it in your camper’s medical form or contact your camp directly to speak with a supervisor. We recognize that medical information can be sensitive, and we always keep this information confidential – we will only share medical information with select staff as needed in order to ensure we are providing your camper with the support they need to have a successful session at camp. We train our staff to handle situations with sensitivity and an open mind. We also always have our Health Centre staff on site and available 24 hours a day, as well as staff trained in Mental Health First Aid, to support your camper during a crisis. Depending on the seriousness of the situation, camp staff may handle it themselves, or they may be in contact with you and/or a medical professional to create a plan to support your camper. Minor situations that camp staff will handle on their own may include things like homesickness, minor separation anxiety, or minor feelings of isolation. In the event that these are persistent during your camper’s stay, camp staff will notify you and discuss strategies for how best to support your camper through their time with us. Camp staff may also contact you in the event that they learn about your camper expressing thoughts of self harm, an unhealthy relationship with food or dieting, anxiety, depression, major body image issues or self hate. In these instances, our goal will be to create a plan with you to support your camper during their time at camp. We want camp to be a safe place for everyone, and a place to support healthy relationships, including with one’s self. However, in the event that a situation arises that is outside of the scope of training our staff have received, we may make the decision to notify you and/or a medical professional. In extreme cases where we feel your camper may pose a risk to themselves or others, we will be in contact with you to create an exit plan for your camper. Instances that may require removal of your camper from the program could include suicidal ideation, self harm including extreme eating disorders, or other harmful behaviours. While our goal is to help support your camper through a successful session at camp, we do not have social workers, therapists, or mental health professionals on staff. It is important that if a situation arises that is beyond the level of training that our staff have received, you are involved with us to create a plan to support your camper’s needs, even if that means removing them from camp. Our number one priority is always the safety of your camper.

Our staff provide campers with the support, attention, and the care they need while away from home. We have one of the highest staff-to-camper ratios in Ontario and a long list of qualifications to ensure we provide the highest quality of camp programming, such as: Standard First Aid and CPR (C) Certification National Lifesaving Society qualifications Vulnerable Sector Check Extensive training with ongoing training and coaching Many of our staff were campers themselves and have experience working with children, and YMCA Camp Belwood, Camp Ki-Wa-Y, and Camp Waabanaki are Accredited Members of the Ontario Camps Association and YMCA Day Camps are in the process of working towards accreditation. Find out what it means to be OCA Approved. YMCA Overnight Camps has a purpose and obligation to ensure the safety and well-being of the campers in our care. We have policies and procedures in place to ensure your child’s health and safety in order to create a positive environment including safe drop-off and pickup for campers, a duty to report child abuse and/or neglect, and various emergency and risk management procedures. Because there is an element of risk in all camp activities, appropriate procedures must be in place to minimize risks and effectively manage the safety of every participant in every activity. Camp staff are required to regularly asses risk and reserve the right to decide to modify, limit, or temporarily suspend certain activities due to circumstances arising including: Insufficient staffing which may mean an inability to maintain staff ratios due to staff illness or lack of qualified staff (such as Lifeguards) in order to run the scheduled camp activity. Inclement weather or lake water quality advisories. We will do our best to communicate activity modifications with families ahead of time and find a comparable experience to ensure campers are having fun. Unfortunately, we cannot provide refunds due to activity modifications.

Is there bussing? Please note that bussing is limited and only available at certain sites. More details will be available when the 2023 camp registration opens. By Car YMCA Camp Belwood 0008 Third Line, Fergus, ON N1M 2W4 Drop off day: Monday, between 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Pick up day: Saturday, between 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. YMCA Camp Ki-Wa-Y 3738 Hessen Strasse, St. Clements, ON N0B 2M0 Drop off day: Monday, between 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Pick up day: Saturday, between 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. YMCA Camp Waabanaki 214 Bethune Road, North, Huntsville, ON P1H 2J1 Drop off day: Monday, between 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Pick up day: Saturday, between 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. By Bus Bus transportation is only available for Camp Waabanaki campers at this time. If you are interested in bus transportation to Camp Waabanaki (for an additional fee) please connect with the office to make arrangements. Bus Pick Up Schedule Bus Drop Off Schedule Please aim to be at the pick up/ drop off location early to keep our bus on schedule. There will be camp staff on the bus to supervise during the trip and do attendance at every stop Safe Arrival Upon arrival to camp, Camp Staff will sign all campers into YMCA Camp’s care. Please notify the camp office of any late arrivals. Safe Departure The person picking up your camper must be on the Authorized Pick-Up List indicated in your CampBrain account. For your camper’s safety YMCA Camp staff reserve the right to refuse the release of campers into the care of individuals who are not on the authorized pick-up list. Staff will ask for government issued photo identification to confirm identity. Please connect with the camp office if you need any assistance. The First Day Welcome to Camp! Our counselors have been eagerly anticipating your arrival! Upon arrival to camp, you and your family will check in beside the dining hall where you will be introduced to one of your counsellors. You will then get to see your cabin, drop off your gear, and have a look around camp. All campers gather where they wait to have their names called out by their counsellors. Campers are placed in cabins based on age, and requests received prior to camp. Lunch is served in the dining hall, and next are orientations and screenings at the Health and Wellness centre and the waterfront. In the afternoon, campers take a tour of the camp and visit most of the activity areas, and learn more about the daily schedule, rules, and behaviour guidelines.

At YMCA of Three Rivers Camps We work to ensure that everyone — regardless of age, ethnicity, race, income-level, faith, ability, gender identity/expression, or sexual orientation — feels welcome, connected, and safe at camp. We aim to empower all campers, leadership trainees, volunteers, and staff to fully participate in our camps, and develop to their fullest potential as future leaders and global citizens. Camp Behaviour Policy Campers, LITs, CITs, and Staff are expected to follow behaviour and safety guidelines and interact in accordance with the YMCA of Three Rivers core values of Equity, Inclusiveness, Advocacy, Health & Wellness, Accountability, Empathy, and Respect. Give Me Five! We follow five simple rules to keep camp a safe and positive place for all campers and staff: Keep hands and feet to yourself Speak kindly and positively to each other Touch only what belongs to you Stay within the day camp area Listen to your leaders Expectations for Behaviour — "Stoplights” The YMCA’s goal is to have a Camp where everyone feels safe and included. Our behaviour guidelines exist to help ensure safety, inclusion, and enjoyment in our camps for all participants. The stoplight model of behaviour allows campers, LITs, families and staff to be clear on the actions to be taken should certain behaviours arise at camp. Our staff work proactively to decrease the likelihood that these behaviours arise but are prepared to intervene when necessary. Staff use tools such as strong camper/staff relationships, positive reinforcement, strength-based approach, first/then language, and parent feedback to ensure positive experiences. Staff are also prepared with behaviour logs, check-in guides, and supervisor support when needed to manage behaviours. Green Light: Camper behaviour is encouraged and positively rewarded. Yellow Light: The camper is given a verbal warning, with a check-in from a camp supervisor. It is explained that if this behaviour continues the campers may be sent home. Red Light: Camper is immediately suspended from camp, the opportunity to return to camp depends on the severity of the actions and willingness of camper to right the behaviours. YMCA of Three Rivers Camps reserves the right to remove the camper from the camp program for remainder of the camp season if the behaviour displayed by the camper or their parent/guardian place themselves, camp staff, or other campers at risk for physical or emotional harm. Please note: any suspensions or removals from camp due to behaviour will not be refunded. Respectful Camp Conduct YMCA of Three Rivers Camps maintains high standards for positive interaction, communication, and role-modeling for children. Harassment and discrimination will therefore not be tolerated from any party. If at any point a parent/guardian, staff or management feels uncomfortable, threatened, bullied, abused, or belittled, they may immediately end the conversation and report the situation to the Camp Director. Everyone has the right to feel safe and respected at camp. The YMCA of Three Rivers has a zero-tolerance policy for hate or discrimination. Any instances of prejudice, intolerance or hate directed towards individuals due to their race, ethnicity, sexual or gender identity, or disability will result in removal from the camp program.

The Camp Tuck shop is where campers can buy camp gear such as t-shirts, hats, and other clothing and accessories. Every year, a new camp shirt is designed for campers, LITs, CITs, and Staff to wear with pride and keep forever. The Tuck Shop is always a great spot to buy some treats (like ice cream). A Note on Treats In our ongoing quest to encourage and model healthy living and eating choices, our camps will limit the number of times, and the amount of snack food items campers may purchase during the session. How does the Tuck Shop Work? Tuck Shop money can be added to your Camper’s Online Tuck Shop Wallet through your CampBrain Account at any time. Please do NOT send cash. Login to your CampBrain Account View Existing Registrations (select the current year registration) Scroll down and you will see Camp Store on the right-hand side Click on "Add Deposit" Deposit as much money as you wish, $10-$20 is a good start Campers will then have their own digital wallet to use whenever they visit the Tuck Shop You will be able to log in to see the balance in their wallet and add to it at any time. Remaining Tuck funds in your wallet will be returned to your credit card on file. Access Your Account Here

We do our best ensure that campers are provided with exceptional care while they are away from home, including: On the day of their arrival, campers are visited by our health and wellness staff for an initial health checkup. Counselors make sure that campers brush their teeth twice a day, wash, and change their clothes regularly. All campers are encouraged to wash their hands before meals and our dining halls are equipped with hand sanitizer dispensers. Each accommodation area has a washhouse facility equipped with hot and cold running water. If your child becomes ill or injured while at camp, immediate care will be provided. Although laundry facilities are generally not necessary for a one or two week stay at camp, in obvious circumstances (e.g., bed-wetting) we will make sure that sleeping bags/soiled clothing are (discreetly) taken care of. Head Lice Campers are checked for lice on their first day of camp. Please check your children for signs of lice prior to coming to camp. If your child is found to have lice at camp, you will be notified and may be asked to pick them up from camp immediately. Once your child has undergone the appropriate treatment, they are welcome to return. Illness Each camp has a well-equipped Health and Wellness Centre staffed by a senior staff certified to handle minor health concerns. Each camp is no further than 20 minutes away from the emergency rooms at local hospitals. If your child becomes ill at camp, you will be contacted by phone within 24 hours of the beginning of the illness. In most instances the camper can remain at camp if it appears the illness will pass within a reasonable period of time. If the symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, the parents will be contacted again and together with the Director, will decide whether the camper will remain at camp or recuperate at home. Medication at Camp Camp staff are happy to support the administration of medication, as long as detailed instructions are included in your camper's Medical Form in their CampBrain Account. If your child requires medication by injection (e.g., Insulin), please ensure you include as much detailed information in your Camper Medical Form as possible. We encourage you to speak to the Camp Director as additional terms, conditions, and training on your child’s Individual Care Plan is required. Medication must be submitted directly to the Camp Director for safe keeping and cannot be stored in your child’s cabin. We recommend that you send along two inhalers and/or EpiPens® with your child where possible. One will need to be carried by your child at all times (we suggest that you send a hip sack for easy carrying). The backup will be kept with the counsellor supervising your child's group throughout the day. (The counsellor will carry both inhalers/EpiPens® at the parents' request.) Sun Sense With continued concern over the health due to extended sun exposure, we ask that campers bring: A good sun hat (keep in mind that baseball hats do not cover the ears or back of the neck) Water bottle Sunscreen Please make sure your camper arrives at camp wearing sunscreen and pack some to reapply during the day.

All Campers will need to bring the following items to camp. We suggest that you pack everything in a backpack. Please label it with their name or attach a tag. Consult our recommended packing list. Backpack (for day use, carrying items around a big site) Refillable water bottle (1 Litre) Running shoes Sandals/water shoes for swimming, boating, and/or water games Sunscreen and bug repellant Hat and sunglasses Weather-appropriate clothing: rain gear, extra sweater, etc. Bathing suit and towel (It is recommended that you bring additional bathing suits as campers are in and out of the lake frequently) T-Shirts (4-5/week) Sweaters (1-2/week) Long sleeve shirts (1-2/week) Pants (1-2/week) Shorts (3-5/week) Underwear (5-7/week) Socks (5-7/week) Pajamas Bedding (fitted sheet and top sheet and blanket for single bed) Pillow and pillow case Sleeping Bag Laundry bag Toiletries Flashlight Optional items: Stationary for writing letters Musical instruments Books Camera Paddle Stuffed animal for comfort The YMCA will not be responsible for lost or damaged items. Please keep your valuables at home. Please leave at home These items will be confiscated upon the camper's arrival and returned to the parent upon the camper's departure. Hand-held games (i.e., Nintendo Switch) Cell phones Tablet or laptop Money Water guns Hair dryers or curling irons Knives of any kind Cigarettes or vapes Non-Prescription drugs or alcohol Matches, lighters, or other fire starters Please consult our printable recommended packing checklists: Overnight Camp Packing List OutTrip Packing List (for Camp Waabanaki) Please Do Not Bring a Cell Phone YMCA Camps feel the need to communicate with and enlist the support of our camper parents about cell phones at camp. We are proud to provide a traditional, ‘unplugged' overnight camping experience that provides an emotionally and physically safe environment to help build camper independence. Camper access to cell phones undermines the camp atmosphere we are trying to create. We appreciate and understand your apprehension when your child is way at camp, and as always, you are absolutely welcome to call us directly, and the counselor or a counseling manager can give you an update about how things are going. We think that you'll agree that, although "letting go" is challenging for parents and campers, the benefits of letting go is most certainly one of the best things about a child's experience at camp. Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.

All of our meals at camp are eaten in the Dining Hall and served “family style”. Our kitchen staff prepares meals in accordance with the Canada Food Guide. Please indicate any allergies or dietary restrictions and needs on your Camper’s Medical Form during registration (found in CampBrain). Our kitchen staff will modify our menu to meet the needs of each camper. Our Head Cook, as well as our Health and Wellness team, will be available on the first day to go through the needs of your child. All meals served at camp are delicious and nutritious with a variety of options. They are all prepared with kids in mind to be enjoyed by even the most meticulous of eaters. We also have a Health Hut available at every meal to all campers. In the health hut, our breakfast option consists of yogurt and oatmeal. At Lunch, campers can find fresh fruit. All dinners will have a fresh salad prepared. Our maintenance staff ensure that the sites are clean and safe. Our camps are inspected regularly by the local health departments and accredited by the Ontario Camps Association. YMCA Camps are ‘peanut-aware'. We do not serve any food that contains or may contain peanuts. For the health and safety of our campers and staff, please ensure that your camper does not bring any food items that contain nuts to camp. Drinking Water All of our water systems are approved by and registered with the Ministry of the Environment, and are in compliance with Regulation 170/03. Our drinking water is tested regularly in accordance with Reg. 170.

Our promise is to deliver on these eight expectations of YMCA campers: YMCA Camp is fun Fun is the most important part of being a camper. YMCA Camp is safe YMCA Camps are committed to camper social, emotional, and physical safety. Participants feel safe at camp. YMCA Camp is a place to build friendships Relationships built at camp last the week, a summer, or a lifetime. YMCA Camp is a place to belong Campers embrace taking good care of themselves, others, and their camp. And feel like they are part of something special. YMCA Campers learn valuable skills at camp Participants have unique opportunities to be challenged to grow in spirit, mind, and body. YMCA Camp values nature Nature is cornerstone to the camp experience. Campers are stewards of their natural surroundings. YMCA Camp provides a high quality of care Participants have clean and inviting spaces to call home, where they enjoy wholesome, balanced meals. YMCA Camp is a place to return You are welcome today, tomorrow, and 50 years from now, as a camper, camper family, camp staff, or camp alumnus.

With near-constant activity and unpredictability of weather, keeping towels clean, dry and accounted for is an on-going challenge at camp. We are pleased to offer this service that cuts down on lost and found, and soggy, sandy towels soiling your child's clean and dry belongings. Campers who order our towel service receive a fresh towel each day they are at camp. Towels are labelled with names before delivery for easy identification throughout the day. Towel service is purchased along with registration. Log into your registration account if you wish to purchase towel service for your camper or call our camping office at 519-699-5100.

Communication Camp communication happens through the CampBrain email provided. Please make sure your email is up to date and correct in your CampBrain account. Before camp starts, we'll send an email with everything you need to know to ensure they have a successful week with us. Parent Issues & Concerns In support of YMCA of Three Rivers’ Mission, Guiding Principles, Vision, Values, and Purpose, all parties will foster positive and respectful interactions with children, parents/guardians, and camp staff. Our camp staff are available to talk to and support parents/guardians at drop-off and pick up. Parents are encouraged to take advantage of the following channels to communicate your suggestions, concerns and/or seek clarification about YMCA policies, procedures, and practices as the need arises: Surveys A survey link will be emailed to you at the end of each session. Please take a moment to complete this survey. Your feedback is used to continually improve our programs. Families who fill out a survey will be entered in a draw to win a week of camp.

Extreme Heat In the event of an extreme heat warning, our top priority is the safety and well-being of our campers. We have a plan in place to tackle the heat head-on. This means more shade, extra water breaks, placing fans in cabins, and removing strenuous activities to keep everyone cool and comfortable. Severe Weather Statements In the event of severe weather statements including storm and/or tornado warnings, each camp location has their own set of procedures aiming to keep campers safe. Camp staff will monitor weather conditions, use alerts to signal warnings, directing everyone to designated shelters, and update families as to the situation at camp. Camp staff receive regular training and practice extreme weather drills with campers to ensure our camp community is well-prepared in the event of a weather emergency.

Camp is awesome! And for those who have already discovered that, and even for many first-timers, the anticipation while counting down the days is sweet and over the top exciting, too! That's how we hope our campers arrive: ready, willing, and brimming with excitement to embrace all that our camps have to offer! Of course, some jitters are absolutely normal too, so here are a few suggestions for you and your child while planning for camp, to make your child's arrival and time at camp as smooth and positive as possible: Speak positively and enthusiastically about camp, and assume that your child will have a great time and meet new friends. (If you have serious concerns or issues, please discuss them with us, not your child.) Begin organizing and packing for camp early and keep stress at home to a minimum before the beginning of camp, so your child arrives relaxed and happy, rather than hurried and stressed with last minute packing and organizing. Make a point of spending some quality time with your child before camp starts. They will be less likely to long for your individual attention if they enjoyed a good dose before starting camp. Express confidence in his or her independence, while discussing the roles of our counselors, as kind, fun and helpful. Also, please stress to your child to discuss anything at all he or she needs help with, and our counsellors will reiterate this at camp. View the website information with your child, and discuss how your child is feeling about the upcoming camping experience. Find out what he or she is most excited about, and worried about. If your child has never slept away before, arrange for a sleepover at the home of a friend or relative. What NOT to do Please do not plan to visit, or tell your child that you will visit. Campers have the opportunity to gain independence while at camp and visits usually disrupt their progress, and almost always require a "recovery period" to readjust back into camp life. For this same reason, please do not tell your child to call home. If you have a situation that requires a visit or a conversation, please contact the Director, and together, you can discuss the best way to proceed. Addressing Potential Homesickness Discuss potential homesickness with your child and assure them that it's perfectly normal to miss home while away: Discuss ways of coping: They can write a letter home, describing all the great things about camp, bring a special toy or photo, and most of all, ask the counselor for help. In fact, this is good advice in all situations, not just homesickness. Be sure your child knows that our counselors are caring individuals who want to make sure your child has the best time possible. Try to send an email on the first day of camp, rather than waiting a day or two. Campers really seem to enjoy that almost-immediate connection to home as the first busy day at camp begins to wind down. Resist telling your child they can come home, or call home if they get homesick. In our experience, a conversation with a homesick child is very difficult for the parent and the child. In most cases, once the child has phoned home, the homesick feelings are intensified and it is more difficult to regain any of the success they have already achieved. Your approach to this conversation should assume that your child will be successful, while still letting them know that you take their concerns seriously. Homesickness and the Role of our Staff We recognize the importance of the care and engagement provided by our counselors and staff is in ensuring that cabin and camp atmospheres are welcoming and nurturing. Our counselors and support staff are trained to meet emotional needs of kids away from home. Counselors provide safety to encourage the campers to learn new things Counselors help set norms and model a daily routine that is reasonable and not overwhelming. Counselors provide the right amount of individual attention, to help ease into the cabin group and camp environment. We recognize that each child is an individual and each situation is different: We are quite willing to help your child cope with homesickness and to realize the great value of successful completion of the camp session. More Resources http://www.camps.ca/camps-homesickness-cure.php https://www.acacamps.org/press-room/how-to-choose-camp/homesickness

We will do our best to accommodate cabin mate requests. You can make a Cabin Mate request at the time of registration in your Camper Form Section. Please limit your child's requests to two mutual requests, with the children being within two years of age of each other. We understand that friends are excited to attend camp together, but we also need to recognize that when old friends are together, others are sometimes left out. As we hope each year at camp brings new challenges and accomplishments, we feel strongly that camp is a place to make new friends while also nurturing old friendships.

Once you’ve created a camp account, you can login at any time to edit forms, download receipts, check payment schedules, and add weeks of camp. Please check your calendar to see if the dates that you plan to send your child to camp are the same as are listed in our system. If you have an issue with your child's registration, please let us know as soon as possible so we can address it by calling 519-699-5100 or sending an email. Access your CampBrain account here. Forgot your password? You can reset your account by entering the email address you used to create the account and clicking “forgot my password” on the CampBrain login screen. Keeping in Touch Please inform the Camping Team at 519-699-5100 or camp@ytr.ymca.ca if any of your contact information changes. It is important to us to maintain current phone, email, mailing address and emergency/authorized pickup information.

Each of our camper cabins is staffed with 2 counsellors. Our entire staff team participates in extensive training each year and we all work together to create positive spaces for all our campers.

Counsellors are available during the night to assist campers whenever necessary. Campers are encouraged to wake up their counsellor if they are in need of assistance. Additionally, support staff is available 24/7 to help campers who may feel unwell, have had an 'accident', or are having difficulty sleeping.

Washrooms are short walk away from all of our cabins. There are flush toilets and composting toilets available.

All campers live in cabins, with 8 to 10 campers and 2 counselors. Our cabins are basic living spaces, designed to be comfortable and welcoming during rest hours and at nighttime. All our cabins have electricity, porches, and storage space for personal items.

Yes! We offer all-gender cabins at YMCA Camp Ki-Wa-Y. Upon registration, campers will have the choice to sign up for an all-gender or single-gender cabin. It is important to us that all our campers are able to choose an accommodation that makes them feel comfortable and to be themselves. All-gender cabins are open to everyone — they are a welcoming space for campers who want to share a space with campers of different genders, who have friends or siblings who are different genders, who have friends or siblings of different genders and for campers who identify as non-binary or genderqueer. Each cabin has 2 counsellors and we strive to have a counsellor of each single gender (girl/boy) counselling the cabin. We work with all our counsellors to ensure they receive the training and tools to make all spaces at camp inclusive and safe.

All cabins have a change room or space available within the cabin. Depending on the cabin style this might be a built-in changeroom, washroom within the cabin, curtain set up, or pop up tent.

We establish an end-of-day routine for each cabin, setting different lights-out times based on the campers' ages. Every camper heads to the washhouse to brush their teeth. Counsellors then conduct a cabin check-in while campers are in bed, reflecting on their day together. This is followed by a period of quiet time, tailored to the age group. Quiet time activities include reading a book together, counsellors leading a song, or allowing campers some independent downtime to relax in their bunks before lights-out.

Currently, I am a Certified Personal Trainer through CSEP, and I am studying Kinesiology at the University of Waterloo. This has equipped me with knowledge and skills in exercise prescription and programming for a wide range of individuals. I have a broad understanding of how to implement different types of training into a tailored fitness program to help you achieve your short- and long-term goals. Read Caelan's Full Bio Email Caelan

My undeniable passion for health and fitness began over 30 years ago. I began to develop unique weight management strategies through weight lifting, cardiovascular exercise and a strong focus on progressive nutritional education. Read Cindy's Full Bio Email Cindy

I have a passion and enthusiasm for health, wellness, and fitness. I have always enjoyed being physically active, especially strength training. I have been with the YMCA for over 5 years and enjoyed every moment of it. Being part of the Y has been rewarding in so many ways. I love being part of the Y community. As a Personal Trainer I am here to help coach, educate, and motivate you to achieve your fitness goals. My mission is to inspire you to become the strongest version of yourself through exercise. Read Mark's Full Bio Email Mark

Using the basic functional movement patterns, I can help you start and maintain your physical ability to perform movements and make it fun as well along the way. I will help you create a training program that caters to your goals, abilities, and interests and I am prepared to work around any limitations you might have to create the most effective fitness plan. My goal is to keep you motivated, and results will be sure to follow. Read Aladin's Full Bio Email Aladin

I am an experienced Fitness Professional with a passion in whole-body fitness and health. My goal is to help you reach your goals through Functional Training, Nutritional guidance and Mindfulness. I am certified in various Functional Training modalities, including TRX and BOSU, and trained to deliver exercise to people living with Osteoporosis, Dementia and other chronic health conditions. If you are new to fitness, it is my goal to help you feel at ease when training in our Fitness spaces. Whether you are looking to manage your existing health conditions, change your body composition or start a complete lifestyle change, we will work together to set you on the path to great health! Read Jessica's Full Bio Email Jessica

Emmanuel is a passionate certified personal trainer, group fitness instructor and nutrition coach. With an extensive culinary background, nutrition certification and up to date knowledge of the latest scientific training methods he can provide you with the knowledge to fuel your body to meet your performance, physique, and weight loss goals. Read Emmanuel's Full Bio Email Emmanuel

I am passionate about fitness and leading a healthy lifestyle, and I’m equally passionate about helping others achieve their own health and fitness goals — no matter where they are in their personal wellness journey. As a group fitness instructor at the Y for over 35 years, teaching high and low impact aerobics, step, cycling, and more recently, MOSSA® Group Core, Group Power and Group Centergy, I have supported and witnessed many transformations of class members in both their fitness and confidence levels. This led to my desire to deepen and extend that support to individuals as a Personal Trainer. Read Jayne's Full Bio Email Jayne

As a personal trainer, I am committed to empowering my clients by creating tailored, dynamic training programs, offering expert guidance, and fostering a motivating and supportive environment. I believe that with the right support and motivation, anyone can achieve their fitness goals and unlock their full potential. Read Anna's Full Bio Email Anna

I am passionate about fitness, everyone’s fitness. Whether you are young and just starting a lifelong fitness regime, mid-life and trying to get into shape or a senior striving to stay mobile and active, I will guide you on your path. Experienced and certified in many fitness styles including AquaFit, Yoga, Stabilizing Ball, Resistance Training, Body Sculpting, and Aerobics, I can design a program that will suit anyone’s fitness level and interest. Read Heike's Full Bio Email Heike

I have been passionate about fitness since high school, when I started working out in the weight room and gained an interest in learning about the most effective ways of training to see results. Since then, I have gained experience in many forms of exercise including bodyweight fitness, weight training, functional movement training, and group fitness. Whether you are new to the gym or have years of experience, I am confident that I can help you take the right steps towards achieving your goal. Read Noel's Full Bio Email Noel

I believe that fitness can be achieved at any stage of life — whether you’re just starting a wellness journey, finding time for yourself when the kids have gone to school, or looking to maintain your abilities later in life, we can work together. We will build your foundational skills to prepare you for movement quality and consistency with a focus on your fitness goals, helping you to feel capable, strong and confident. I am experienced in several modalities that incorporate loaded and functional movement training, such as TRX, ViPR and Urban Poling. All of these have a focus on developing core strength and endurance, in addition to developing full body strength and conditioning. Read Cary's Full Bio Email Cary

My training philosophy is quite simple: Place equal emphasis on mobility, strength and aerobic fitness. To achieve this, I use a holistic approach used to prepare long distance running. To be successful at running, special attention must be paid to aspects of fitness such as quality of movement, efficiency, resistance training, flexibility, strong nutritional habits, injury prevention, core strength, improved body composition and mental toughness. Put together, these components can offer you a higher quality of life, improved health and greater confidence and self-esteem. Read Will's Full Bio Email Will

I have a passion and enthusiasm for health, wellness, and fitness. I have always enjoyed being physically active, especially strength training. I have been with the YMCA for over 5 years and enjoyed every moment of it. Being part of the Y has been rewarding in so many ways. I love being part of the Y community. As a Personal Trainer I am here to help coach, educate, and motivate you to achieve your fitness goals. My mission is to inspire you to become the strongest version of yourself through exercise. Read Mark's Full Bio Email Mark

My passion for fitness and leisure began at a young age. I was involved in school sports, participated in gymnastics, and have a passion for bowling. I completed the Fitness and Health Promotion diploma program at Conestoga College in 2021 as well as the Recreation Therapy diploma program at Mohawk College in 2022. I’m looking forward to helping others become the healthiest and happiest version of themselves. Read Jaiden's Full Bio Email Jaiden

Hi, I’m Harin Patel, a certified personal trainer from the American Council on Exercise (ACE). I specialize in helping individuals achieve their fitness goals through a holistic approach that focuses on strength training and weight loss. I have a passion for core training and have helped clients achieve their fitness goals through creative programming and personalized coaching for 3 years. I am also well-versed in powerlifting and calisthenics. I have learned them well and incorporate them into my clients’ workouts to help them achieve their fitness goals. My goal is to inspire and motivate individuals to lead a healthy and active lifestyle. Read Harin's Full Bio Email Harin

Jeremy will provide you with the motivation and expertise necessary to meet your health and fitness goals. Experience includes developing exercise programs for the general population, performance athletes, and those with chronic health conditions, functional limitations or disabilities across the lifespan. Read Jeremy's Full Bio Email Jeremy

Originally from Iran, my passion for fitness is rooted in the belief it unlocks the true potential within us. Exercise fosters harmony between mind, body, and soul, building discipline and healthy habits that empower you to conquer any goal. As a certified personal trainer, I’m here to guide you on your path to a healthier, happier you. My motto: “Strong Body, Clear Mind, Unstoppable Spirit” embodies my commitment to helping you achieve your fitness and wellness goals. Read Farzin's Full Bio Email Farzin

Since the age of 4 fitness has been a big part of my life. I played soccer until the age of 12 and then switched over to ice hockey, a sport I still play regularly. I became fascinated with lifting weights at 15 and would often spend my school lunch breaks working out. Read Jaden's Full Bio Email Jaden

Sarah brings 22 years of YMCA passion to our team. After working as the Director of Youth and Children’s Services for many years, Sarah chose to step away from this role and pursue a profession that involved moving her body every day, and supporting others to do the same. She became a certified fitness instructor and personal trainer and started putting her passion for helping people and building relationships to work right away. Read Sarah's Full Bio Email Sarah

Peter’s extensive and varied athletic background (including provincial, national, and international podium results in powerlifting and cycling) has given him the knowledge and experience to help guide you to your personal best, regardless of age and ability level. Read Peter's Full Bio Email Peter

Marcia has been involved in sports since her youth. She started weight training to supplement her sporting activities, and began seeing the full extent and benefits of fitness training for everyday life. Completing her first triathlon in 2017, Marcia has since become passionate about all things TRI. She started swimming in her youth and continued through high school as a member of the school swim team, but it wasn’t until she joined a local triathlon club that she discovered the joys of road cycling and running as well. Read Marcia's Full Bio Email Marcia

Angela will work with you to establish an individualized program based on a balanced, holistic approach that incorporates all aspects of your lifestyle. With Angela’s support and guidance, you will find the commitment and drive to take responsibility for your own health and fitness! Read Angela's Full Bio Email Angela

I’ve always been physically active but my busy lifestyle of work and family commitments often seemed to prevent me from achieving my fitness goals. Today, I’m the fittest I’ve ever been which I attribute to adding strength training into my fitness routine. I loved it so much that I earned my certification as a personal trainer so that I could help others see the benefits of strength training. Read Melinda's Full Bio Email Melinda

Russ is a professional who is keenly aware of the need for clients to manage their time. His fitness and training programs address this need with precision and effectiveness. Russ will help you develop a program to suit your specific needs in muscle growth, HIIT, core training, metabolic conditioning, or functional training programs. Read Russ' Full Bio Email Russ

Training with Irina will help you to find your own path of becoming healthier and happier you. Personal training is a partnership. We will work hard together, we will have fun, we will stay focused and motivated, all while maintaining a healthy balance. I am in this journey with you! Read Irina's Full Bio Email Irina

Rebekah’s goal is to provide a system that ensures accountability, a pathway to build and maintain healthy habits, instruction on proper exercise technique, goal setting and evaluation, a roadmap to finding the inner strength, and perseverance to reach and exceed goals! Read Rebekah's Full Bio Email Rebekah

I aim to help clients find valuable exercise programs and set achievable fitness goals. I believe that we can all set and achieve goals at any stage of our lives and I’m here to help! Read Courtney's Full Bio Email Courtney

I’ve been on a weight training journey for over three years now, transforming from a novice unsure of where to begin to someone who knows the best ways to build muscle and gain strength. Weight training has become a passion for me, and I’ve been fortunate to train friends and family for over a year. Read Matt's Full Bio Email Matt

Twenty years ago, I weighted over 250 pounds and was experiencing several issues associated with being obese and leading a sedentary lifestyle. In March of 2003, I attended a fitness for weight loss workshop conducted by Dr. Karl Weselan, where proper exercise technique and nutritional information were presented. This was a eureka moment for me! I subsequently participated in a four-month fitness challenge with an exercise and nutrition program designed and monitored by Dr. Weselan. My net weight loss was over 24 pounds over 16 weeks but more importantly all facets of my blood profile, blood pressure, etc. improved to the point that my doctor was astounded. I was hooked! Read Jim's Full Bio Email Jim

I became a Certified Personal Trainer with GoodLife Fitness in 2010. I enjoyed the infinite opportunity to learn and expand my own fitness while coaching and leading others to do the same. In 2013 I became a Registered Holistic Nutritionist because I had worked with a more experienced trainer who had this designation. I wanted to use the assessments and tools she had used with me with my own clients because I found them extremely helpful and interesting. Read Caileigh's full bio Email Caileigh

I grew up on sports and living an active lifestyle so that’s all I’ve known. After graduating high school I decided to attend George Brown in Downtown Toronto for a year for Fitness and Health Foundations and ended up staying in Toronto for 2 years total to work in the fitness industry and to expand my knowledge on the different type of gym settings, clientele and environments. Read Hannah's Full Bio Email Hannah

My approach to training involves leading with empathy, science, attention to detail, and humour. Whether you are into athletics, bodybuilding, the arts, or somewhere in between, I am here to support you in overcoming barriers, improving your abilities, and connecting to a greater and happier version of yourself. Read Samuel's Full Bio Email Samuel

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We will have designated one or more all-gender cabins during sessions for the following age groups indicated in CampBrain as a session option. These sessions have not bee confirmed but tentatively are proposed for: Session 3 July 14-19: Ages 10-12 Session 5 July 28- August 2: Ages 12-14 Session 7 August 11-16: Ages 10-12 If the session option is not selected, campers will be placed in the gendered cabin with which they identify.

All cabins have a change room or space available within the cabin. Depending on the cabin style this might be a built-in change room, washroom within the cabin, or curtain set up.

All cabins have a change room or space available within the cabin. Depending on the cabin style this might be a built-in change room, washroom within the cabin, or curtain set up.

Washrooms are short walk away from all of our cabins. At Ki-Wa-Y we have flush toilets and composting toilets available. Washrooms in common spaces such as the Dining Hall are all-gender.

Each cabin has 2 counsellors and we strive to have a counsellor of each single gender (girl/boy) counselling the cabin of 8 campers. However, we cannot guarantee the genders of our staff. We work with all our counsellors to ensure they receive the training and tools to make all spaces at camp inclusive and safe.

Upon registration, campers will have the choice to sign up for an all-gender or single-gender cabin. It is important to us that all our campers are able to choose an accommodation that makes them feel comfortable and to be themselves.

All-gender cabins are open to everyone — they are a welcoming space for campers who want to share a space with campers of different genders, who have friends or siblings who are different genders, and for campers who identify as non-binary or genderqueer.

9:00 a.m. Arrival 9:15 a.m. Welcome & Site Orientation 9:30 a.m. Activity Rotations #1 10:30 a.m. Activity Rotations #2 11:30 a.m. Lunch 12:30 p.m. Activity Rotations #3 1:30 p.m. Activity Rotations #4 2:30 p.m. Large Group Game 3:30 p.m. Lost & Found 4:00 p.m. Departure

The KW Titans Skills Academy’s Basketball Training Program will assist you in improving your skills. Whether amateur or all-star, this coaching experience will challenge and support you to elevate your game. During this 4-week mini session, professional coaches and players from the KW Titans will teach a comprehensive set of drills from offence and defence to make you a better shooter, blocker, and all-around complete player. Ages: 9 to 12 Cost: members — $132.40, non-members — $148 Having trouble registering? Email Gavin to reserve your spot. Upcoming Sessions: ​ Chaplin Family YMCA (Cambridge) Tuesdays, July 2 to July 23, 2024 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Register for this session. A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA (Kitchener) Wednesdays, July 3 to July 24, 2024 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Register for this session. ​ Stork Family YMCA (Waterloo) Thursdays, July 4 to July 25, 2024 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Register for this session.

The KW Titans Skills Academy’s Basketball Training Program will assist you in improving your skills. Whether amateur or all-star, this coaching experience will challenge and support you to elevate your game. During this 4-week mini session, professional coaches and players from the KW Titans will teach a comprehensive set of drills from offence and defence to make you a better shooter, blocker, and all-around complete player. Ages: 13 to 18 Cost: members — $132.40+HST, non-members — $148+HST Having trouble registering? Email Gavin to reserve your spot. Upcoming Sessions: ​ Chaplin Family YMCA (Cambridge) Tuesdays, July 2 to July 23, 2024 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Register for this session. A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA (Kitchener) Wednesdays, July 3 to July 24, 2024 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Register for this session. ​ Stork Family YMCA (Waterloo) Thursdays, July 4 to July 25, 2024 Register for this session.

The KW Titans Skills Academy’s Basketball Training Program will assist you in improving your skills. Whether amateur or all-star, this coaching experience will challenge and support you to elevate your game. During this 4-week mini session, professional coaches and players from the KW Titans will teach a comprehensive set of drills from offence and defence to make you a better shooter, blocker, and all-around complete player. Ages: 13 to 18 Cost: members — $132.40+HST, non-members — $148+HST Having trouble registering? Email Gavin to reserve your spot. Upcoming Sessions: ​ Chaplin Family YMCA (Cambridge) Tuesdays, August 6 to August 27, 2024 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Register for this session. A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA (Kitchener) Wednesdays, August 7 to August 28, 2024 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Register for this session. ​ Stork Family YMCA (Waterloo) Thursdays, August 8 to August 29, 2024 Register for this session.

The KW Titans Skills Academy’s Basketball Training Program will assist you in improving your skills. Whether amateur or all-star, this coaching experience will challenge and support you to elevate your game. During this 4-week mini session, professional coaches and players from the KW Titans will teach a comprehensive set of drills from offence and defence to make you a better shooter, blocker, and all-around complete player. Ages: 9 to 12 Cost: members — $132.40, non-members — $148 Having trouble registering? Email Gavin to reserve your spot. Upcoming Sessions: ​ Chaplin Family YMCA (Cambridge) Tuesdays, August 6 to August 27, 2024 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Register for this session. A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA (Kitchener) Wednesdays, August 7 to August 28, 2024 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Register for this session. ​ Stork Family YMCA (Waterloo) Thursdays, August 8 to August 29, 2024 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Register for this session.

7:00am Morning Swim/Run  8:30am Breakfast   9:30am Morning Skill Development/Bronze Training/Sessions  12:30pm Lunch   1:30pm Afternoon Skill Development/Bronze Training/Sessions  5:30pm Dinner   6:30pm Evening Skill Development/Bronze Training/Sessions  9:30pm Down Time/Wash Up   11:00pm Lights Out 

To encourage LITs to become well-rounded leaders, personal ‘soft skills’ development takes place in a series of sessions including: • Goal Setting   • Communication • Reflection  • Taking initiative   • Teamwork   • Problem solving  • Adapting to change  • Counselor shadowing 

A highlight of our LIT program is working towards obtaining Lifesaving Society certifications in Emergency First Aid, Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross. At the end of the month, you will be take part in an exam by a certified examiner for both Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross. Only LITs who demonstrate skill progression will have the opportunity to take the certification exam.    Bronze Medallion Bronze Medallion challenges LITs both mentally and physically. Judgment, knowledge, skill, and fitness – the four components of water rescue – form the basis of Bronze Medallion training. LITs acquire the assessment and problem-solving skills needed to make good decisions in, on, and around the water. Bronze Medallion is a prerequisite for assistant lifeguard training in Bronze Cross.     Bronze Cross The course begins the transition from lifesaving to lifeguarding and prepares candidates for responsibilities as assistant lifeguards. Candidates strengthen and expand their lifesaving skills and begin to apply the principles and techniques of active surveillance in aquatic facilities. Bronze Cross is a prerequisite for advanced training in the Society’s National Lifeguard and leadership certification programs.

Over the month, you will become a master of the skills you learned as a camper and build your confidence to prepare to one day teach campers how to build their skills when you move on to become a CIT and staff member. These camp skills include: Canoeing  Swimming Kayaking  Archery  From the Ground Up (Nature)  Outdoor Living (ODL) and Environmental stewardship Crafts   Drama and campfire songs Skin Diving (Snorkelling)   Site Specific Skill Development include the above skills plus the following: Ki-Wa-Y: High Ropes, Wind Surfing   Belwood: Sailing, BMX Biking, Swimming Pool  Waabanaki: Mountain Biking, Sailing, Disc Golf, Roots (Canoe Tripping/Outdoor skills)  

As a LITs and CITs, you will learn quickly that you are accountable and held to a higher standard of responsibility than you were when you were a camper. Camp Staff expect LITs and CITs to act responsibly and respectfully in all situations, especially when interacting with campers, camp staff, and fellow participants. We expect you to challenge yourself by always putting your best effort forward, following the rules, and to take responsibility for your actions.       Applying for the LIT program is a big and exciting step in a camper’s journey. Successful LITs will be invited to apply to become a Counselor in Training (CIT) in 2025.

7:45 a.m. Morning Dip 8:30 a.m. Breakfast 9:30 a.m. Cabin Clean Up 10:00 a.m. Skill Choice or Cabin Skill 11:00 a.m. Skill Choice or Cabin Skill 12:30 p.m. Lunch 1:10 p.m. Rest Hour 2:00 p.m. Skill Choice or Program Stream 4:15 p.m. Paradise Option or Cabin Activity 5:30 p.m. Dinner 6:30 p.m. Paradise Option or Cabin Activity 7:30 p.m. Evening Program 8:30 p.m. Snack 9:00 p.m. Days End 9:15 p.m. Bedtime This is a typical schedule. Days will vary with special activities throughout the day.

7:30 a.m.       Morning Program 8:30 a.m.       Breakfast 9:00 a.m.       Cabin Clean Up 9:30 a.m.      Cabin Activities e.g. swimming, boating 11:00 a.m.    Cabin Skill Building 12:30 p.m.     Lunch 1:15 p.m.       Rest Hour, Visit the Tuck Shop 2:00 p.m.       Camp-Wide Game 2:45 p.m.       Camp Activities e.g. Cabin Songs 4:00 p.m.       Activity Selects 5:30 p.m.       Dinner 6:30 p.m.      Cabin Activities 8:00 p.m.      Campfire 9:00 p.m.      Snack 9:30 p.m.       Bedtime This is a typical schedule. Days will vary with special activities throughout the day.

This is a typical schedule. Days will vary with special activities throughout the day.

Outtripping is a memorable experience for campers of all ages. It allows campers to develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world, encourages teamwork, builds confidence and develops leadership skills. Outtrip is an exciting and special aspect of the Camp Waabanaki experience. All campers participate in an overnight camping trip that is appropriate for their age and ability. Trip options range from an overnight on Lake Vernon/Connecting lakes for our youngest campers to a multi night canoe trip for our oldest campers. Prior to each outtrip, staff will review the necessary skills with campers to ensure they feel prepared for their trip. Each trip will have at least two trip leaders to guide the campers through their outtrip experience. Appropriate gear is essential in ensuring a camper has a positive trip experience so please review the trip specific packing list and let us know if you have any questions. We strongly encourage families to discuss the outtrip experience with their campers ahead of time to ensure they are emotionally prepared and looking forward to the trip. Trips may vary depending on session and registration.

Monday March 18, 2024 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Posture Speaker: Katelyn Corke R.Kin Get a fresh perspective on how your posture can affect your health. Attend this workshop to gain insight into what posture is, how it affects us and take away some practical tips, tricks and exercises to support beneficial postural positions. To get the most out of this workshop have a broomstick, open wall space to stand against and a stable chair readyWorkshops are free for members and non-members. Can't attend the date of the workshop? Register and you will receive the recording of the workshop to review at a time that works for you. Click here to register for this workshop. ​

Put one foot in front of the other and learn to run. This eight-week program will guide you through safe interval ratios of walking and running, building up to 5km. The program will include resources to help you learn about running, proper footwear, hydration, common injuries associated with running and more. Feel supported by our staff, volunteers and make new friends. Running is a great way to build your endurance and improve your overall health and well-being. Cost: Free Register through your member portal. This program is paused for the winter session. Locations: Chaplin (Cambridge)

Monday February 5, 2024 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Stretching For Life Speaker: Katelyn Corke R.Kin Do you value your flexibility and mobility? Do you understand why it’s important to stretch before and after activity? Join us to learn the different types of stretches, why they are beneficial and how to adapt and practice them safely. This is a practical workshop providing an opportunity to practice some common and not so common stretches that may help to keep you more fluid and able to complete your day-to-day activities with more ease. Can't attend the date of the workshop? Register and you will receive the recording of the workshop to review at a time that works for you. Click here to register for this workshop. ​

Are you looking for your next big challenge? Do you have some running experience and are looking to increase your distance? Join our Personal Trainer Will and team of volunteers to Learn to Run 10km over a ten-week session. Two weekly runs will help you to gradually increase strength and endurance, building up to 10km. Each week, you'll also receive educational resources, participate in discussion around various fitness topics related to running, and learn to safely strengthen and stretch your muscles to prevent injuries. Cost: members $168+HST, non-members $197.80+HST Dates: April 6 – June 10, 2023. Times: Thursdays, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. and Saturdays 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Register at the membership desk. Location: Chaplin (Cambridge)

Resistance training and weights are an excellent complement to your overall health and wellness. However, many of our female identifying members have shared that they find this aspect of their workout intimidating. This four-week program has been designed to help female identifying participants learn how to use weight equipment and gain skills in proper form and programming. From deadlifts to bench presses, and free-weights to machines, this class will have you tapping into your inner strength. Cost: members $75.94, non-members $90.40 (HST included) Dates: October 22 – November 12, 2023. Times: Sundays, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Email Irina or visit the membership desk to register. Location: Guelph

For those looking to complete their first triathlon and for triathletes preparing for a new season. In this group training session, you’ll improve your swim, bike, and run techniques, build endurance, and practice transitioning from one sport to the next. Core training and stretching are incorporated to develop strength and prevent injury. Participants must be able to swim at least 100m and run 2km without stopping. Spring 2024 Session Run and Stretch Thursdays 6:45 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. April 4 – May 30, 2024 Location: Meet in the lobby for the outdoor run (weather permitting). *Run participants must be able to run 2km without stopping. Cycle Saturdays 7:15 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Location: Studio *Limited space available in cycle. Class registration required. Triathlon Conditioning/Education Sundays 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. April 7 – May 26, 2024 Triathlon and Masters Swim Sundays 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. April 7 – May 26, 2024 Location: Pool *Participants must be able to swim 100m without stopping Cost: members $115+HST, non-members $150+HST Register at the membership desk or online through your member portal. For more information, email Lauren. Locations: Stork (Waterloo)

The KW Titans Skills Academy’s Basketball Training Program will assist you in improving your skills. Whether amateur or all-star, this coaching experience will challenge and support you to elevate your game. During this 4-week session, professional coaches and players from the KW Titans will teach a comprehensive set of drills from offence and defence to make you a better shooter, blocker, and all-around complete player. Ages: 9 to 12 Cost: Members — $133.20 Non-members — $148 Player registration will still be accepted after the session start date. Fees will be pro-rated based on when the player joins the program. Register using the links below. Having trouble registering? Email Gavin to reserve your spot. ​Upcoming Sessions: Guelph YMCA Mondays, November 27 to December 18, 2023 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Register for this session. Chaplin Family YMCA (Cambridge) Tuesdays, November 28 to December 19, 2023 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Register for this session. A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA (Kitchener) Wednesdays, November 29 to December 20, 2023 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Register for this session. ​ Stork Family YMCA (Waterloo) Thursdays, November 30 to December 21, 2023 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Register for this session.

Looking to start your lifting journey but don't know where to begin? Join us for Introduction to Lifting, a six-week program designed to make beginners feel comfortable at the rack. You'll learn to use the power racks and gain an understanding of the three main lifts: deadlift, squat, and bench press. Our experienced trainers will teach you proper form to reduce the chance of injury and help you develop personalized programming for continued progress. You’ll also learn about different weightlifting options, such as dumbbells and machines, to help you find what works best for you. Let's get started on your lifting journey together Cost: members $113.90, non-members $134.11 (HST included) Dates: June 4 – July 16, 2023. Times: Sundays, 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Email Irina for more information. Click here to register. Location: Guelph

Welcome to our dynamic small group training session, focused on sculpting your glutes and core! Led by a certified personal trainer, this circuit-style workout incorporates kettlebells, slam balls, and battle ropes for a diverse and effective workout experience. Each station engages different muscle groups, blending bodyweight and resistance exercises for a comprehensive workout aimed at beginner to intermediate fitness levels. Join us for an energizing session filled with motivation and camaraderie. Leave feeling empowered and one step closer to your fitness goals. Let's strengthen and tone together! Dates: May 6 – June 3, 2024. (no class May 20) Times: Mondays, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Instructor: Troy Location: A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA Cost: members $59.12+HST, non-members $70+HST For more information, send us an email. Register at the membership desk.

Connect one-on-one with our community development specialist. Newcomer Youth Pathway to Belonging provides a personalized approach to help newcomer youth connect and contribute to their community. This helps increase their sense of belonging. Offered through the support of the KW Community Foundation. Do you want to work together to help newcomer youth feel like they belong in our community? Do you think your program/service/community supports newcomer youth? Learn how to get involved by contacting our community development specialist for more information.

Wednesday March 6, 2024 2:30 p.m. – 3:45 p.m. Advance Care Planning Speaker: Alexandra Allen from Hospice Waterloo Region Imagine you are unable to make your own healthcare decisions…who would decide for you? Join us as we look at health care decision making in Ontario and what you need to know about Advance Care Planning. In this session, you will also learn about Hospice Waterloo Region’s free programs and services available throughout the tri-cities and surrounding townships to support individuals living with life-threatening illness, their caregivers and the bereaved. Can't attend the date of the workshop? Register and you will receive the recording of the workshop to review at a time that works for you. Click here to register for this workshop. ​

Make more progress in less time with game-tested advice from a basketball expert. A maximum of four participants to each Titans player or coach ensures individual attention, tailored feedback, and an opportunity to improve your basketball IQ and proficiency. Drills will focus on shooting, dribbling, finishing and defending. Ages: 9 to 18 Cost: members — $89.10+HST, non-members — $99+HST Upcoming Sessions: Guelph YMCA-YWCA Monday March 4, 2024 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Cost: members — $89.10+HST, non-members — $99+HST Register for this session. Chaplin Family YMCA (Cambridge) Tuesday March 5, 2024 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Cost: members — $89.10+HST, non-members — $99+HST Register for this session. A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA (Kitchener) Wednesday March 6, 2024 7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Cost: members — $89.10+HST, non-members — $99+HST Register for this session. Stork Family YMCA (Kitchener) Thursday March 7, 2024 7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Cost: members — $89.10+HST, non-members — $99+HST Register for this session. Chaplin Family YMCA (Cambridge) Tuesday March 12, 2024 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Cost: members — $118.80+HST, non-members — $132+HST Register for this session. Stork Family YMCA (Kitchener) Thursday March 14, 2024 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Cost: members — $118.80+HST, non-members — $132+HST Register for this session.

Monday March 25, 2024 6:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Osteoarthritis and Exercise Speaker: Dave Patterson R.Kin Do you have arthritis? Pain, stiffness and questions? Join us for this workshop to discuss osteoarthritis and the role of exercise in arthritis management. Includes tips on what to do, and how to get started with exercise at home. Can't attend the date of the workshop? Register and you will receive the recording of the workshop to review at a time that works for you. Click here to register for this workshop. ​

I was delighted to join the staff of the Stork Family YMCA in 2012. Prior to that, I had been both an active member and volunteer fitness instructor at the Lincoln Street and A.R. Kaufman YMCAs. I’ve taught fitness classes and trained clients throughout the Region. I have experience training clients with hip and knee replacements, sports injuries and other general health issues including diabetes, alzheimer’s, obesity and heart and lung diseases. I am very approachable and stay up-to-date on a variety of fitness regimens. I am available to all YMCA members in assessing, setting, updating, achieving and tracking their fitness goals. Read Alison's Full Bio Email Alison

The KW Titans Skills Academy’s Basketball Training Clinic will assist you in improving your skills. Whether amateur or all-star, this coaching experience will challenge and support you to elevate your game. During this full-day session, professional coaches and players from the KW Titans will teach a comprehensive set of drills from offence and defence to make you a better shooter, blocker, and all-around complete player. Ages: 9 to 18 Cost: members — $81+HST, non-members — $90+HST Upcoming Sessions: Stratford YMCA Saturday January 6, 2024 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Register for this session.

Nutrition for Healthy Aging — Two-Part Series Part 1: Wednesday October 18 6:30-7:30 pm Part 2: Monday November 6 6:30-7:30 pm Speaker: Adrienne Tsandelis MHSc., RD As we get older, we need fewer calories, but more nutrients. In this two part series with registered dietitian Adrienne Tsandelis, we will explore healthy eating principles and identify key nutrients that promote healthy aging and wellbeing. Both sessions will cover simple meal ideas and eating tips to help meet nutritional needs. Workshops are free for members and non-members. Can't attend the date of the workshop? Register and you will receive the recording of the workshop to review at a time that works for you. Click here to register for this workshop. Registration is only required for the first session to reserve your spot in Part 1 and Part 2. ​

It’s a busy world with a lot of demands on your time and attention. So, what does it look like to stop, and just be present for a moment. Welcome to Introduction of Mindfulness, a four-week session to introduce participants to mindfulness, being present in the moment, and working towards achieving both inner peace and a greater understanding of self. Join us as you learn mindfulness tools to bring you peace and joy through living in the moment. Learn what it means to let go of anxiety and worry. It’s a journey to find our true selves — and you’re invited. Cost: members $76.30, non-members $90.40 (includes HST) Dates: February 10 – March 3, 2023 Times: Fridays, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. Email Irina to register. Location: Guelph

Develop your skills in strength, power, balance, agility and endurance.  Explore fundamental movement patterns through a variety of equipment choices and exercises.  Maintain your mobility and joint health as well as exploring your body’s ability to adapt to everyday challenges.  Prepare to be challenged, motivated, and to build strength and confidence. Participants will be performing movements that involve transitioning to and from the floor, moderate impact and overhead movements. Cost: members $118.96+HST, non-members $140+HST Dates: September 19 – November 14, 2023 (no class October 17) Times: Tuesdays, 1:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. Instructor: Cary For more information, send us an email. Register at the membership desk. Registration closes September 15, 2023. Location: A.R. Kaufman (Kitchener)

Bodyweight Mastery is an 8-week circuit-style group training program, designed to harness the power of bodyweight exercises. This program is tailored to individuals of all fitness levels, providing a dynamic and engaging experience. Participants will embark on a progressive journey, mastering the art of bodyweight movements to build strength, enhance flexibility, and achieve optimal functional fitness. Through carefully curated workouts and personalized attention, participants can unlock their full potential, and may experience noticeable improvements in muscle tone, endurance, and overall body composition. With a strong emphasis on proper form and technique, this program ensures safety while maximizing results. Join us and discover the incredible potential of your own body. Cost: members $118.96+HST, non-members $140+HST Dates: September 17 – November 5, 2023. Times: Sundays, 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Instructor: Noel For more information, send us an email. Register at the membership desk. Registration closes September 15, 2023. Location: Stork (Waterloo)

This 7-week small group training program includes tethered water running, endurance training and HIIT style drills . It is ideal for exercise enthusiasts, those preparing for an upcoming race, or for those who find running on land too stressful for their joints. Be prepared to be challenged both physically and mentally! Please come dressed in swim wear and bring a towel. Dates: March 25 – May 13, 2024. (no class February 19) Times: Mondays, 9:05 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. Location: Guelph Cost: members $132.89 non-members $156.46 For more information, send us an email. Register at the membership desk.

All our movements are powered by the torso. Abdominal and back work together to support the spine when we move. We will incorporate exercises to train the core muscle group. Rather than standard crunches, we will include balance, stability and torso strength and rotation. Most of all, we will have fun. So join me in May, we will rock! Dates: May 10 – May 31, 2024 Times: Fridays, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Instructor: Heike Location: A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA Cost: members $59.12+HST, non-members $70+HST For more information, send us an email. Register at the membership desk.

Exercise and Bone Health  Wednesday, October 25th 6:30-8:00 pm Speakers: Dave Patterson R.Kin & Katelyn Corke R.Kin Join us in a practical workshop to learn more about how bone strength changes over time and how to make daily activities spine safe. We will also explore safe and effective exercises to help maintain your bone health. To get the most out of this workshop please have a broomstick and stable chair ready. There will also be an option to practice ground to standing movements.  Workshops are free for members and non-members. Can't attend the date of the workshop? Register and you will receive the recording of the workshop to review at a time that works for you. Click here to register for this workshop. ​

Capacity: 10 Situated next to the dining hall, Algonquin is ideal for smaller break-out groups. Please let us know at the time of booking if you require any of the following materials: Video projection, projector and screen, flip chart(s), dry erase board, sound system and microphone.

Capacity: 10 Situated next to the dining hall, Oco is a comfortable space ideal for break-out groups.

Your glutes are one of the most important muscle groups, providing stability and power to your lower body. During this 1.5-hour session, our experienced trainers will guide you through a variety of exercises using barbells, dumbbells, and belts, with a focus on proper form to ensure that your glutes are doing the work instead of your hip flexors. You'll also learn how to perform a barbell hip thrust, a highly effective exercise for building glute strength and power. Whether you're an athlete seeking to enhance your performance, or simply looking to build a stronger, more toned backside, this workshop is for you. Cost: members $28.48, non-members $33.90 (HST included) Dates: January 21, 2024 Times: Sunday, 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Instructor: Russ For more information, send us an email. Register at the membership desk or email Irina to reserve your spot. Location: Guelph

The KW Titans Skills Academy’s Basketball Training Program will assist you in improving your skills. Whether amateur or all-star, this coaching experience will challenge and support you to elevate your game. During this 7-week session, professional coaches and players from the KW Titans will teach a comprehensive set of drills from offence and defence to make you a better shooter, blocker, and all-around complete player. Ages: 13 to 18 Cost: members — $233.10+HST, non-members — $259+HST Having trouble registering? Email Gavin to reserve your spot. ​Upcoming Sessions: Guelph YMCA Mondays, March 25 to May 6, 2024 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Register for this session. Chaplin Family YMCA (Cambridge) Tuesdays, March 26 to May 7, 2024 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Register for this session. A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA (Kitchener) Wednesdays, March 27 to May 8, 2024 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Register for this session. ​ Stork Family YMCA (Waterloo) Thursdays, March 28 to May 9, 2024 8:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Register for this session.

Take Heart! Maintaining Heart Health As You Age Speakers: Larissa Lee RD, Dave Patterson R.Kin Older adults today do not just aim to survive, but THRIVE! Heart health is a key component for vitality. Join our two part series to learn how you can optimize your cardiac health through nutrition & exercise. Monday February 26, 2024 6:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Part 1: Nutrition and heart health go hand in hand. Join Larissa Lee, Registered Dietitian to learn about how the food we eat has an impact on our heart health. We will explore dietary patterns and strategies to implement heart-healthy eating into your everyday life. Click here to register for Part 1 of this workshop. Monday March 4, 2024 6:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Part 2: Registered Kinesiologist Dave Patterson will discuss evidence-based principles and practical tips on how to engage in safe and effective exercise for heart health, including specific guidelines for both aerobic and strength training, setting realistic goals, finding the right activity intensity, and signs of over-exertion. Click here to register for Part 2 of this workshop. Can't attend the date of the workshop? Register and you will receive the recording of the workshop to review at a time that works for you. ​

The KW Titans Skills Academy’s Basketball Training Program will assist you in improving your skills. Whether amateur or all-star, this coaching experience will challenge and support you to elevate your game. During this multi-day session, professional coaches and players from the KW Titans will teach a comprehensive set of drills from offence and defence to make you a better shooter, blocker, and all-around complete player. Ages: 9 to 18 Upcoming Sessions: Full-day Program (3 days) Cost: members — $202.50+HST, non-members — $225+HST Stratford YMCA Wednesday December 27 – Friday December 29, 2023 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Register for this session. Half-day Program (3 days) Cost: members — $148.50+HST, non-members — $165+HST Stork Family YMCA (Waterloo) Wednesday December 27 – Friday December 29, 2023 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Register for this session. Half-day Program (4 days) Cost: members — $198+HST, non-members — $220+HST Stork Family YMCA (Waterloo) Tuesday January 2 – Friday January 6, 2024 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Register for this session.

A virtual group for newcomer youth ages 13 to 18. Have fun, make new connections, practice your English speaking skills, and increase your sense of belonging within the community. New session information coming soon! Program funding provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and the United Way Perth Huron.

This class offers participants an opportunity to use the properties of water to assist them in their physical wellness journey, with a focus on helping to improve gait and joint movement. This group training session is ideal for individuals who have had a joint replacement, have mobility challenges, or find on land exercises a challenge and wish to do low impact exercise in the water. A water wheelchair will be available that can be taken down the ramp to the pool. Individuals who require hands-on assistance in walking, chair transfer etc. should come with a support person. Cost: members $132.91, non-members $156.45 (HST included) Dates: November 6 – December 18, 2023. Times: Mondays, 3:45 p.m. – 4:25 p.m. Email Irina for more information. Register at the membership desk. Location: Guelph

Discover the pivotal role your scapula plays in maintaining a strong, healthy posture. In this 1.5 hour in-person workshop, a certified Personal Trainer will demonstrate how your scapula functions, how scapular position can affect your posture, how to strengthen your scapula through exercise, and how to use scapular CARS to enhance joint health, stability, and range of motion. This workshop is ideal for people who sit in a car or at a desk for long periods of time, and anyone who is looking to improve their overall posture. Cost: members $28.48, non-members $33.90 (HST included) Dates: January 28, 2024 Times: Sunday, 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Instructor: Russ For more information, send us an email. Register at the membership desk or email Irina to reserve your spot. Location: Guelph

Monday February 12, 2024 6:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Brain Health & Aging Speaker: Dr. Laura Middleton Join Dr. Laura Middleton from University of Waterloo to learn the latest recommendations on steps you can take to care for your brain and reduce the risk of later life dementia. For the most part it’s “just like your mother told ya” exercise, get enough sleep, engage with other people, don’t take too many medications, lead a life that stimulates your brain and so on. The details though can be a bit tricky. How much exercise? What type? How much can I drink? What amount of sleep is needed? How can I stimulate my brain? This webinar highlights some of the key components to maintaining brain health. Can't attend the date of the workshop? Register and you will receive the recording of the workshop to review at a time that works for you. Click here to register for this workshop. ​

Lifting for Older Athletes is designed to help you stay strong and fit by adjusting your workout according to your unique needs. Over the course of four weeks, our experienced trainers will work with you to create a customized lifting routine that takes into account any physical limitations or restrictions you may have, such as lack of mobility due to knee or hip replacements. You'll learn how to safely and effectively strengthen your muscles and improve your overall fitness. Incorporating weightlifting and bodyweight exercises, this program is suitable for all fitness levels and will help you stay active, healthy, and independent. Join us and take the first step towards a stronger, more vibrant you. Cost: members $75.94, non-members $89.40 (HST included) Dates: April 30 – May 21, 2023. Times: Sundays, 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Email Irina for more information. Click here to register. Location: Guelph

Unlock your strength and confidence with our Youth Strength and Lifting group training program. In this six-week journey, young adults ages 13 to 17 will build a strong foundation of strength and overall health under the guidance of an experienced Personal Trainer. This program is designed to ensure the successful and safe performance of basic compound lifts while emphasizing proper technique, form, and exercise progression. We prioritize safety while encouraging young athletes in a supervised, supportive environment. Whether you're looking to increase your strength and take your lifts to the next level, or you're just getting started with strength training, this program is for you! Cost: members $113.91, non-members $135.60 (HST included) Dates: November 12 – December 17, 2023. Times: Sundays, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Email Irina for more information. Register at the membership desk. Location: Guelph

The KW Titans Skills Academy’s Basketball Training Program will assist you in improving your skills. Whether amateur or all-star, this coaching experience will challenge and support you to elevate your game. During this 4-week session, professional coaches and players from the KW Titans will teach a comprehensive set of drills from offence and defence to make you a better shooter, blocker, and all-around complete player. Ages: 13 to 18 Cost: Members — $150.52 Non-members — $167.24 Player registration will still be accepted after the session start date. Fees will be pro-rated based on when the player joins the program. Register using the links below. Having trouble registering? Email Gavin to reserve your spot. ​ Upcoming Sessions: Guelph YMCA-YWCA Mondays, November 27 to December 18, 2023 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Register for this session. Chaplin Family YMCA (Cambridge) Tuesdays, November 28 to December 19, 2023 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Register for this session. A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA (Kitchener) Wednesdays, November 29 to December 20, 2023 8:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Register for this session. ​ Stork Family YMCA (Waterloo) Thursdays, November 30 to December 21, 2023 8:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Register for this session.

Small Group Circuit is an 8-week circuit-style group training program designed to help you achieve your fitness goals. Structured to focus on functional movement training while progressively increasing your endurance and strength, you'll be challenged through a variety of exercises using bodyweight movements, kettlebells, dumbbells, and resistance bands. You'll also learn how to set SMART goals to help you create lasting lifestyle changes that will benefit you long after the program ends. Whether you're looking to kickstart your fitness journey or take your training to the next level, this program is suitable for all fitness levels. Dates: February 7 – March 27, 2024. Times: Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Instructor: Jess Location: A.R. Kaufman (Kitchener) Dates: February 6 – March 26, 2024. Times: Tuesdays, 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Instructor: Jess Location: Stork (Waterloo) Cost: members $118.96+HST, non-members $140+HST For more information, send us an email. Register at the membership desk.

Wednesday, November 22nd 6:30-8:00 pm Balance Training and Falls Prevention Speaker: Katelyn Corke R.Kin Balance is key to safe movement and preventing falls. If we don’t train for balance as we age, we can lose it. Attend this workshop to increase your understanding of balance training and learn how to prevent falls, including steps you can take right now to work towards feeling more confident on your feet. If you would like to try some of the balance exercises during the workshop, please have a stable surface to hold onto. Workshops are free for members and non-members. Can't attend the date of the workshop? Register and you will receive the recording of the workshop to review at a time that works for you. Click here to register for this workshop. ​

This 8-week program will motivate and encourage you to achieve fitness for daily function, with a focus on building muscle and cardio endurance.  Designed to be accessible to any fitness level, each class will challenge you in new ways, contributing to your overall progress and transformation. Whether you're a conditioned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, we believe in your ability to achieve your fitness goals, and we're committed to providing you the best support and motivation possible. Class instruction will be in Persian language. Cost: members $178.44+HST, non-members $210+HST Dates: October 5 – November 23, 2023. Times: Thursdays, 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Instructor: Bahar For more information, send us an email. Register at the membership desk. Registration closes September 15, 2023. Location: A.R. Kaufman (Kitchener)

The Citizenship Support Group at YMCA of Three Rivers is designed to help you prepare to take the Canadian Citizenship Exam. Using the Discover Canada book, we will provide you with many opportunities to learn, study, and practice material that will be on your exam. It is intended for Permanent Residents who have applied or are in the process of applying for Canadian Citizenship. Any materials you need will be provided before the first day of class. As we begin to plan a new term please fill out this wait list survey so know what you want to learn and when you are available to come to class. Once we have sufficient interest, you will be contacted with the dates and times of the class. This survey is a general waitlist and we plan to start another session sometime this summer. Join the Wait List If you have any questions please feel free to contact Gabrielle S. and she would be happy to help. Citizenship Support Group is an IRCC funded program for permanent immigrants

Watch our Virtual Tour 250 Hespeler Rd., Cambridge ON N1R 3H3 1-833-YTR-YMCA (1-833-987-9622) Please note: Our phone line rings to a central office and is answered from 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Monday to Friday. If you are unable to speak with someone, please leave us a voicemail, and we will return your call within 48 to 72 hours depending on the volume of calls we are dealing with. Thank you for your patience and understanding. Photo Identification Required Please note that photo identification is required to enter the facility for all day pass users, guests, and out of town members. Members who do not have a photo on their member profile may also be asked to provide photo identification. Hours Monday to Thursday 6 a.m. – 9 p.m. Friday 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Upcoming Holiday Hours: Monday July 1, 2024 (Canada Day) — Closed Monday August 5, 2024 (Civic Holiday) — Closed Monday September 2, 2024 (Labour Day) — Closed Monday October 14, 2024 (Thanksgiving) — Closed Tuesday December 24, 2024 (Christmas Eve) — Closing at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday December 25, 2024 (Christmas Day) — Closed Thursday December 26, 2024 (Boxing Day) — Closed Tuesday December 31, 2024 (New Year's Eve) — Closing at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday January 1, 2025 (New Year's Day) — Closed

268 Maiden Ln. St. Marys, ON N4X 1B7 519-284-2500 Photo Identification Required Please note that photo identification is required to enter the facility for all day pass users, guests, and out of town members. Members who do not have a photo on their member profile may also be asked to provide photo identification. Hours Monday to Thursday 6 a.m. – 9 p.m. Friday 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Upcoming Holiday Hours: Monday July 1, 2024 (Canada Day) — Closed Monday August 5, 2024 (Civic Holiday) — Closed Monday September 2, 2024 (Labour Day) — Closed Monday October 14, 2024 (Thanksgiving) — Closed Tuesday December 24, 2024 (Christmas Eve) — Closing at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday December 25, 2024 (Christmas Day) — Closed Thursday December 26, 2024 (Boxing Day) — Closed Tuesday December 31, 2024 (New Year's Eve) — Closing at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday January 1, 2025 (New Year's Day) — Closed

**Guelph Y Renovations** We are undertaking a significant multi-stage renovation at the Guelph YMCA-YWCA. With support from the Government of Canada Investing in Canada Infrastructure Project (ICIP) and a generous donor, we will transform our Guelph location into a more inclusive space with a dedicated youth hub. As we complete these renovations, there may be some minor disruptions and program relocations. Updates will be posted to our renovation information page as they are available. 130 Woodland Glen Drive, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 4M3 519-824-5150 Watch our Virtual Tour Photo Identification Required Please note that photo identification is required to enter the facility for all day pass users, guests, and out of town members. Members who do not have a photo on their member profile may also be asked to provide photo identification. Hours Monday to Thursday 6 a.m. – 9 p.m. Friday 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Upcoming Holiday Hours: Monday July 1, 2024 (Canada Day) — Closed Monday August 5, 2024 (Civic Holiday) — Closed Monday September 2, 2024 (Labour Day) — Closed Monday October 14, 2024 (Thanksgiving) — Closed Tuesday December 24, 2024 (Christmas Eve) — Closing at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday December 25, 2024 (Christmas Day) — Closed Thursday December 26, 2024 (Boxing Day) — Closed Tuesday December 31, 2024 (New Year's Eve) — Closing at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday January 1, 2025 (New Year's Day) — Closed

Watch our Virtual Tour 204 Downie St., Stratford, ON N5A 1X4 519-271-0480 Photo Identification Required Please note that photo identification is required to enter the facility for all day pass users, guests, and out of town members. Members who do not have a photo on their member profile may also be asked to provide photo identification. Hours Monday to Thursday 6 a.m. – 9 p.m. Friday 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Upcoming Holiday Hours: Monday July 1, 2024 (Canada Day) — Closed Monday August 5, 2024 (Civic Holiday) — Closed Monday September 2, 2024 (Labour Day) — Closed Monday October 14, 2024 (Thanksgiving) — Closed Wednesday December 25, 2024 (Christmas Day) — Closed Thursday December 26, 2024 (Boxing Day) — Closed Wednesday January 1, 2025 (New Year's Day) — Closed

Watch our Virtual Tour 500 Fischer-Hallman Rd. N., Waterloo, ON N2L 0B1 1-833-YTR-YMCA (1-833-987-9622) Please note: Our phone line rings to a central office and is answered from 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Monday to Friday. If you are unable to speak with someone, please leave us a voicemail, and we will return your call within 48 to 72 hours depending on the volume of calls we are dealing with. Thank you for your patience and understanding. Photo Identification Required Please note that photo identification is required to enter the facility for all day pass users, guests, and out of town members. Members who do not have a photo on their member profile may also be asked to provide photo identification. Hours Monday to Thursday 6 a.m. – 9 p.m. Friday 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Upcoming Holiday Hours: Monday July 1 (Canada Day) — Closed Monday August 5 (Civic Holiday) — Closed Monday September 2 (Labour Day) — Closed Monday October 14 (Thanksgiving) — Closed Tuesday December 24, 2024 (Christmas Eve) — Closing at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday December 25 (Christmas Day) — Closed Thursday December 26 (Boxing Day) — Closed Tuesday December 31, 2024 (New Year's Eve) — Closing at 3:00 p.m Wednesday January 1 (New Year's Day) — Closed

Watch our Virtual Tour 333 Carwood Ave., Kitchener, ON N2G 3C5 1-833-YTR-YMCA (1-833-987-9622) About our phone line: Our phone line rings to a central office and is answered from 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday to Friday. If you are unable to speak with someone, please leave us a voicemail, and we will return your call within 48 to 72 hours depending on the volume of calls we are dealing with. Thank you for your patience and understanding. Photo Identification Required Please note that photo identification is required to enter the facility for all day pass users, guests, and out of town members. Members who do not have a photo on their member profile may also be asked to provide photo identification. Hours Monday to Thursday 6 a.m. – 9 p.m. Friday 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Upcoming Holiday Hours: Monday July 1, 2024 (Canada Day) — Closed Monday August 5, 2024 (Civic Holiday) — Closed Monday September 2, 2024 (Labour Day) — Closed Monday October 14, 2024 (Thanksgiving) — Closed Tuesday December 24, 2024 (Christmas Eve) — Closing at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday December 25, 2024 (Christmas Day) — Closed Thursday December 26, 2024 (Boxing Day) — Closed Tuesday December 31, 2024 (New Year's Eve) — Closing at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday January 1, 2025 (New Year's Day) — Closed

An inclusive, 60-minute virtual group exercise class offered three times per week. Seated and standing options are included. Participants are encouraged to work at their own pace, and self-select their own exercises from the options available. Instructors provide support and feedback to ensure workouts remain safe and effective. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Access to a device and internet for Zoom video conferencing is required to participate. Please note that classes do not run on statutory holidays. To join our virtual Neuro Fit program, please email lease email Nidhi or phone 519-743-5201 ext. 2131 to book a free consultation. Care partner support is required for participants unable to participate on their own safely.

During this time, YMCA fitness staff are available to assist members with accessible equipment and exercise in the wellness centre. Care partner support is required for members who are unable to participate on their own safely. Chaplin (Cambridge) Monday to Friday 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. To get started with wellness centre support, please email Jeremy or phone at 519-623-9622 x 2219 to book a free consultation

This program provides community exercise support for those who are transitioning from a neuro rehabilitation program or those who need accessible exercise options. Participants complete a workout independently at their own pace, with a guided group warm-up and cool-down. Instructors provide support and feedback to ensure workouts remain safe and effective. Care partner support is required for participants who are unable to participate on their own safely. Care partners may attend with the participant at no additional cost. A.R. Kaufman (Kitchener) Tuesdays and Thursdays 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. or 2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m Guelph Tuesdays and Thursdays 2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. Thank you to the City of Guelph for supporting our Guelph Neuro Fit program in 2024. To join Neuro Fit in Kitchener or Guelph, please email Nidhi or phone at 519-743-5201 ext. 2131 to book a free consultation

Chaplin Family YMCA (Cambridge) Mondays, 2:30 – 4:00 p.m. February 24 - May 26, 2025 (no class May 19) Guelph YMCA-YWCA A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA (Kitchener) Tuesdays, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. January 14 - April 8, 2025 A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA (Kitchener) Thursdays, 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. January 9 - April 3, 2025 Stork Family YMCA (Waterloo) Wednesdays, 10:15 – 11:45 a.m. February 26 - May 28, 2025 (No class March 12) Diabetes Fit programs will be available at our Guelph and Stratford locations in April. Interested in joining an upcoming in-person program? Please complete our online expression of interest form here.

Virtual sessions are hosted online via Zoom. Access to a device and internet for Zoom video conferencing is required to participate in virtual programs. Thursdays 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. January 16 - April 3, 2025 Interested in joining the upcoming virtual program? Please complete our online expression of interest form here.

Participants ages 10 and older may access the pool unaccompanied. Swimmers of any age may be asked to complete the swim test at the discretion of the Lifeguard. Based on swim ability, restriction to shallow water may be made.

Children ages 5 and under receive a red wristband indicating they must be accompanied in the water by a parent/guardian 16 years of age or older who remains within arm’s reach at all times. The parent/guardian must remain in shallow areas of the pool where they can comfortably stand. Each parent/guardian may accompany a maximum of two children ages 5 and under, regardless of the child's swimming ability. Children ages 5 and under who are able to complete the swim test may access deep water, accompanied within arm's reach by a parent/guardian. These children will be issued both a RED and GREEN wristband. Ratio of children ages 5 and under to parent/guardian is 2:1, regardless of swim ability.

Ages 6 – 9 Children ages 6 to 9 who do not successfully complete the swim test receive a yellow wristband indicating that they must be accompanied in the water by a parent/guardian 16 years or older who remains within arm’s reach at all times. A parent/guardian must remain in shallow areas of the pool where they can comfortably stand. Each parent/guardian may accompany a maximum of four children ages 6 to 9 in the water, unless they have successfully completed the swim test. Ages 6 – 9 who complete the swim test Children ages 6 to 9 who successfully complete the swim test receive a green wristband and may access the pool unaccompanied. A parent/guardian 16 years or older must remain within the pool enclosure and directly* supervise their children. Each parent/guardian may accompany a maximum of eight children ages 6 to 9, provided that they have all successfully completed the swim test. * Direct supervision is defined as having visual and verbal contact at all times and able to render immediate assistance at all times.

As of January 9, 2023: In-person at A.R. Kaufman (Kitchener) Mondays and Wednesdays: 1 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. Virtual Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Please note — Classes do not run on statutory holidays.

As of January 9, 2023: In-person at A.R. Kaufman (Kitchener) Mondays: 9 a.m. – 10:25 a.m. | 10:30 a.m. – 11:55 a.m. Wednesdays: 9 a.m. – 10:25 a.m. | 10:30 a.m. – 11:55 a.m. Virtual Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Please note — Classes do not run on statutory holidays.

The A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA is a 70,000 square foot recreational centre that has been part of the Kitchener community since 1983. Major renovations in 1998, 2005, 2011, and 2012 have kept this facility a vibrant location for families, adults, and youth to become healthy and active in spirit, mind, and body. Fitness Centre (Ages 15+, or 13+ with Individual Conditioning course) A large, bright, full-service fitness centre with a variety of cardio and weight training equipment complimented by a free weight and large stretching area. Members ages 13 to 14 may access the Fitness Centre upon completion of the Individual Conditioning course. Register through your member portal or at the membership desk. During Fitness Centre Support hours, a certified Personal Trainer will be readily available to provide answers to your questions and demonstrate the safe and effective use of equipment. Click here to view the Fitness Centre Support schedule. Functional Training Room (Ages 15+, or 13+ with Individual Conditioning course) Keep up on the current training trends by using our Functional Training Room. Utilize TRX, battle ropes, heavy bag, kettle bells, and medicine balls. Members ages 13 to 14 may access the Functional Training Room upon completion of the Individual Conditioning Course. Register through your member portal or at the membership desk. Group Cycling Studio (Ages 15+, or 13+ with Individual Conditioning course) A bright cycle studio located adjacent to the Fitness Centre. Members ages 13 and 14 may access the Cycle Studio upon completion of the Individual Conditioning course. Register through your member portal or at the membership desk. Studio (Ages 13+) A large, bright studio with one wall of mirrors. Track (Ages 10+, under 10 years allowed with parental supervision) Walk, jog or run our indoor track. 15 laps equal 1 mile or 1.6km. Dry, clean strollers are welcome on the track. Weights and Plates (Ages 15+) For those wishing to train with heavier weights, features dumbbells to 100lbs, Olympic Bench Press stations, and all plate loaded equipment. The Weights and Plates area is available only to those ages 15+. Wellness Centre (Ages 15+, or 13+ with Individual Conditioning course) A comfortable, quiet, full-service fitness centre located on the second floor with a variety of cardio and weight training equipment. Special features include a large training floor and wheelchair accessible cardio and strength training equipment. Members ages 13 to 14 may access the Wellness Centre upon completion of the Individual Conditioning course. Register through your member portal or at the membership desk. Please note the Wellness Centre is reserved for Health Management programs during the following times: Mondays: 9:30 a.m. – 12:20 a.m., 1 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Tuesdays: 1 p.m. – 3:15 p.m., 6 p.m – 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays: 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Thursdays: 9 a.m. – 10:15 a.m., 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., 1 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.

St. Marys 268 Maiden Ln. St. Marys, ON N4X 1B7 The St. Marys YMCA was opened in 2002. This 8,000 square foot facility has been dedicated to teen and adults services. Fitness Centre (Ages 15+, or 13+ with Individual Conditioning course) A bright, full-service conditioning centre with a variety of cardio and weight training equipment complimented by a free weight and stretching area. Members ages 13 to 15 may access the fitness centre upon completion of the Individual Conditioning course. Register through your Member Portal or at the membership desk. During Fitness Centre Support hours, a certified Personal Trainer will be readily available to provide answers to your questions and demonstrate the safe and effective use of equipment. Click here to view the Fitness Centre Support schedule. Multi-Purpose Room (Ages 13+) A large, bright multi-purpose room used for a variety of programs and services.

Guelph 130 Woodland Glen Dr., Guelph, ON N1G 4M3 The Guelph Y is a comprehensive recreational centre that has been part of the Guelph community since 1912. Major renovations in 1996, 2000, and 2018 have kept this facility a vibrant location for families, adults, and youth to become healthy and active in spirit, mind, and body. Fitness Center (Ages 15+, or 13+ with the Individual Conditioning course) A large, bright, full service three-level fitness centre that includes a variety of cardio and strength equipment, and weight training equipment complimented by free weight area and Olympic lifting racks. The highlight of Guelph fitness centre is the functional training turf area. Members ages 13 to 14 may access the fitness centre upon completion of the Individual Conditioning course. Register through your Member Portal or at the membership desk. During Fitness Centre Support hours, a certified Personal Trainer will be readily available to provide answers to your questions and demonstrate the safe and effective use of equipment. Click here to view the Fitness Centre Support schedule. Functional Training Turf Area (Ages 15+, or 13+ with the Individual Conditioning course) Keep up on the current training trends by using our new turf area. Utilize: rings, battle ropes, kettle bells, wall and slam balls, as well as sled, tire, monkey bars, and climbing wall with peg board. Members ages 13 to 14 may access the functional training turf area upon completion of the Individual Conditioning course. Register through your Member Portal or at the membership desk. Studio (Ages 13+) A large, bright studio with double sprung hardwood flooring. Y Thrive Y Thrive is an exercising coaching program where members receive a new exercise routine every 90 days to support their fitness experience. Join one of five dynamic workout streams based on their fitness level, age and goals. Begin, Balance, Boost, Flex and Grow are just an appointment away. Ask about Y Thrive at our Guelph membership desk today.

Stratford-Perth 204 Downie St., Stratford, ON N5A 1X4 The Stratford YMCA was built in 1968 and is the third YMCA to be built in the spot it stands. The gymnasium, track, and courts were added in 197, with another addition in 2000. This 42,000 square foot facility is a vibrant location for families, adults, and youth to become healthy and active in spirit, mind, and body. Fitness Centre (Ages 15 +, or 13+ with Individual Conditioning course) A large, bright, full-service conditioning centre with a variety of cardio and weight training equipment complimented by a free weight and large stretching area. Members ages 13 to 14 may access the fitness centre upon completion of the Individual Conditioning course. Register through your Member Portal or at the membership desk. During Fitness Centre Support hours, a certified Personal Trainer will be readily available to provide answers to your questions and demonstrate the safe and effective use of equipment. Click here to view the Fitness Centre Support schedule. Multi-Purpose Room (Ages 13+) A large, bright multi-purpose room used mainly for group fitness. Track (Ages 10+, under 10 years allowed with parental supervision) Walk, jog or run our indoor track. 20 laps equal 1 mile or 1.6km. Dry, clean strollers are welcome on the track.

Chaplin (Cambridge) 250 Hespeler Rd., Cambridge ON N1R 3H3 The Chaplin Family YMCA is an 80,000 square foot recreational centre that has been part of the Cambridge community since 1996. This building provides a place for families, adults and youth to be active in spirit, mind, and body. Fitness Centre (Ages 15+, or 13+ with Individual Conditioning course) A large, full service multi-level conditioning centre with a variety of cardio and weight training equipment complemented by a large weights and plates and stretching area. Members ages 13 to 14 may access the fitness centre upon completion of the Individual Conditioning course. Register through your Member Portal or at the membership desk. During Fitness Centre Support hours, a certified Personal Trainer will be readily available to provide answers to your questions and demonstrate the safe and effective use of equipment. Click here to view the Fitness Centre Support schedule. Studio (Ages 13+) A large, bright, mirrored studio, with double sprung hard wood flooring Track (Ages 10+, under 10 years allowed with parental supervision) Walk, jog or run our indoor, three lane, 70 metre track. Dry, clean strollers are welcome on the track. Wellness Centre (Ages 15+, or 13+ with the Individual Conditioning course) Comfortable, quiet, conditioning centre on the main floor with a variety of cardio equipment. Special features include TRX system, stability bars for balance training and wheelchair accessible equipment. Members ages 13 to 14 may access the Wellness Centre upon completion of the Individual Conditioning course. Register through your Member Portal or at the membership desk. ** Wellness Centre — Staff are available during Wellness Centre Support hours to provide support to people attending our Health Management programs. Click here to view the scheduled Wellness Centre Support Hours.

Stork (Waterloo) 500 Fischer-Hallman Rd. N., Waterloo, ON N2L 0B1 The Stork Family YMCA opened in September 2011 as a place for families, adults and youth to be active in spirit, mind, and body. The building is an open concept facility filled by natural light, and shares communal spaces with the John M. Harper Library. Fitness Centre (Ages 15+, or 13+ with the Individual Conditioning course) A large, bright, full-service conditioning centre that includes a variety of cardio equipment (that have individual TVs) and weight training equipment, complimented by a free weight and large stretching area. Members age 13 to 14 may access the Fitness Centre upon completion of the Individual Conditioning course. Register through your member portal or at the membership desk. During Fitness Centre Support hours, a certified Personal Trainer will be readily available to provide answers to your questions and demonstrate the safe and effective use of equipment. Click here to view the Fitness Centre Support schedule. Rubberized Free Weight Area (Ages 15+) A separate area for those wishing to train with heavier weights, features dumbbells up to 100 lbs, Olympic Bench Press stations, and all plate loaded equipment. The free weight area is available only to those ages 15+. Track (Ages 10+, under 10 years allowed with parental supervision) Walk, jog or run our indoor track. Twelve laps equal 1km. Dry, clean strollers are welcome on the track. Martin Levene Room (Ages 13+) A large studio, with hardwood, sprung flooring. Studio (Ages 13+) A small bright studio, with double sprung hard wood flooring.

Camp Hours Our camp programming runs from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Families will be able to drop their camper off between 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. and will be able to pick them up at the end of the day between 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Safe Arrival At camp drop-off, Camp staff (Site Supervisor, Assistant Site Supervisor, or their designate) will sign all campers into YMCA Day Camp’s care. Absences If your child is going to be absent from camp, please call your child’s camp directly and report the absence to the Site Supervisor. If it is an unforeseen absence, please conact your child’s site prior to 9:00 a.m. by calling 519-699-5100 or emailing us at camp@ytr.ymca.ca first thing in the morning to report the absence. If you are leaving a voice message to report the absence please include: Your camper's full name The camp site/location The details of their absence, e.g. illness, injury etc. If a camper is not present at morning attendance and no absence has been reported, YMCA staff will call contacts listed in their CampBrain account. Safe Departure The Site Supervisor will begin sign-out procedures at the pick-up location at 4:00 p.m. The person picking up your camper must be on the Authorized Pick-Up List (in CampBrain) and show government-photo ID before camp staff can safely dismiss your camper. Once your ID has been matched, the supervisor will call for your camper to be walked to the pick-up point. Late Pick-up Policy All day camp locations close at 5:00 p.m. Any pick-up after 5:00 p.m. is considered late. Parents/guardians are asked to call the day camp as soon as they are aware they may pick up late for any reason and/or make alternate pick-up arrangements, as necessary. Late pick up fees will be charged for each minute after 5:00 p.m. Campers may face removal from camp if families repeatedly arrive late for pick-up.

Communication Camp communication happens through the CampBrain email provided. Please make sure your email is up to date and correct in your CampBrain account. Before camp starts, we'll send an email with everything you need to know to ensure they have a successful week with us. Parent Issues & Concerns In support of YMCA of Three Rivers’ Mission, Guiding Principles, Vision, Values, and Purpose, all parties will foster positive and respectful interactions with children, parents/guardians, and camp staff. Our camp staff are available to talk to and support parents/guardians at drop-off and pick up. Parents are encouraged to take advantage of the following channels to communicate your suggestions, concerns and/or seek clarification about YMCA policies, procedures, and practices as the need arises: Surveys A survey link will be emailed to you at the end of each session. Please take a moment to complete this survey. Your feedback is used to continually improve our programs. Families who fill out a survey be entered in a draw to win a week of camp.

This summer we are excited to offer an array of options for families to order to remember their time at Day Camp! We will be offering T-shirts, stickers, water bottles, and stuffed owls! To place an order please visit our Camp Store website.

Campers should arrive daily with a lunch and at least two snacks as well as a refillable water bottle. To keep our campers with allergies safe, please do not send your camper to camp with any nut products. Vendors and/or vending machines will not be available for lunch/snack purchases at any of our sites. A microwave will NOT be available to heat up food.

At YMCA of Three Rivers Camps We work to ensure that everyone — regardless of age, ethnicity, race, income-level, faith, ability, gender identity/expression, or sexual orientation — feels welcome, connected, and safe at camp. We aim to empower all campers, leadership trainees, volunteers, and staff to fully participate in our camps, and develop to their fullest potential as future leaders and global citizens. Camp Behaviour Policy Campers, LITs and Staff are expected to follow behaviour and safety guidelines and interact in accordance with the YMCA of Three Rivers core values of Equity, Inclusiveness, Advocacy, Health & Wellness, Accountability, Empathy, and Respect. Give Me Five! We follow five simple rules to keep camp a safe and positive place for all campers and staff: Keep hands and feet to yourself Speak kindly and positively to each other Touch only what belongs to you Stay within the day camp area Listen to your leaders Expectations for Behaviour — Stoplights The YMCA’s goal is to have a Day Camp where everyone feels safe and included. Our behaviour guidelines exist to help ensure safety, inclusion, and enjoyment in our camps for all participants. The stoplight model of behaviour allows campers, LITs, families and staff to be clear on the actions to be taken should certain behaviours arise at camp. Our staff work proactively to decrease the likelihood that these behaviours arise but are prepared to intervene when necessary. Staff use tools such as strong camper/staff relationships, positive reinforcement, strength-based approach, first/then language, and parent feedback to ensure positive experiences. Staff are also prepared with behaviour logs, check-in guides, and supervisor support when needed to manage behaviours. Green Light: Camper behaviour is encouraged and positively rewarded. Yellow Light: The camper is given a verbal warning, with a check-in from a camp supervisor. It is explained that if this behaviour continues, the campers will need to take a one-day break from camp. Red Light: Camper is immediately suspended from camp, the opportunity to return to camp depends on the severity of the actions and willingness of camper to right the behaviours. Removal from the camp program is the last resort for managing behaviour, however, sometimes it is necessary to ensure the safety of campers and staff. Supervisors or directors can work with families to create a plan for successful return, should that be the safest option for all. Please note: any suspensions or removals from camp due to behaviour will not be refunded. Respectful Camp Conduct YMCA of Three Rivers Camps maintains high standards for positive interaction, communication, and role-modeling for children. Harassment and discrimination will therefore not be tolerated from any party. If at any point a parent/guardian, staff or management feels uncomfortable, threatened, bullied, abused, or belittled, they may immediately end the conversation and report the situation to the Camp Director. Everyone has the right to feel safe and respected at camp. The YMCA of Three Rivers has a zero-tolerance policy for hate or discrimination. Any instances of prejudice, intolerance or hate directed towards individuals due to their race, ethnicity, sexual or gender identity, or disability will result in removal from the camp program.

Extreme Heat In the event of an extreme heat warning, our top priority is the safety and well-being of our campers. We have a plan in place to tackle the heat head-on. This means more shade, extra water breaks, and removing strenuous activities to keep everyone cool and comfortable. If your camper tends to feel the heat a bit more, it might be worth considering whether it's best for them to take a break and stay home on days when the weather is extreme. Severe Weather Statements In the event of severe weather statements including storm and/or tornado warnings, each camp location has their own set of procedures aiming to keep campers safe. Camp staff will monitor weather conditions, use alerts to signal warnings, direct everyone to designated shelters, and update families as to the situation at camp. Camp staff receive regular training and practice extreme weather drills with campers to ensure our camp community is well-prepared in the event of a weather emergency. Should you feel more comfortable picking up your camper you are always welcome — please call the site phone number or camp office for assistance.

Our staff provide campers with the support, attention, and the care they need while away from home. We have one of the highest staff-to-camper ratios in Ontario and a long list of qualifications to ensure we provide the highest quality of camp programming, such as: Standard First Aid and CPR (C) Certification National Lifesaving Society qualifications Vulnerable Sector Police Check Extensive training with ongoing training and coaching Many of our staff were campers themselves and have experience working with children. YMCA Camp Belwood, Camp Ki-Wa-Y, and Camp Waabanaki are Accredited Members of the Ontario Camps Association. YMCA Day Camps are in the process of working towards accreditation. Find out what it means to be OCA Approved. YMCA Day Camps has a purpose and obligation to ensure the safety and well-being of the campers in our care. We have policies and procedures in place to ensure your child’s health and safety in order to create a positive environment including safe drop-off and pickup for campers, a duty to report child abuse and/or neglect, and various emergency and risk management procedures. Because there is an element of risk in all camp activities, appropriate procedures must be in place to minimize risks and effectively manage the safety of every participant in every activity. Camp staff are required to regularly asses risk and reserve the right to decide to modify, limit, or temporarily suspend certain activities due to circumstances arising including: Insufficient staffing which may mean an inability to maintain staff ratios due to staff illness or lack of qualified staff (such as Lifeguards) in order to run the scheduled camp activity. Inclement weather or lake water quality advisories. We will do our best to communicate activity modifications with families ahead of time and find a comparable experience to ensure campers are having fun. Unfortunately, we cannot provide refunds due to activity modifications.

At YMCA of Three Rivers Camps, we aim to support each and every camper during their time at camp, and strive to create an environment that supports not just the physical health of campers, but also their social, emotional, and mental health and well-being. We recognize that each camper has a unique perspective, and comes from a diverse range of backgrounds, home experiences, and family experiences. If you have any information you wish to share about your camper prior to arrival, we encourage you to include it in your camper’s medical form or contact your camp directly to speak with a supervisor. We recognize that medical information can be sensitive, and we always keep this information confidential — we will only share medical information with select staff as needed in order to ensure we are providing your camper with the support they need to have a successful session at camp. We train our staff to handle situations with sensitivity and an open mind. We also always have our Health Centre staff on site and available 24 hours a day, as well as staff trained in Mental Health First Aid, to support your camper during a crisis. Depending on the seriousness of the situation, camp staff may handle it themselves, or they may be in contact with you and/or a medical professional to create a plan to support your camper. Minor situations that camp staff will handle on their own may include things like homesickness, minor separation anxiety, or minor feelings of isolation. In the event that these are persistent during your camper’s stay, camp staff will notify you and discuss strategies for how best to support your camper through their time with us. Camp staff may also contact you in the event that they learn about your camper expressing thoughts of self harm, an unhealthy relationship with food or dieting, anxiety, depression, major body image issues or self hate. In these instances, our goal will be to create a plan with you to support your camper during their time at camp. We want camp to be a safe place for everyone, and a place to support healthy relationships, including with one’s self. However, in the event that a situation arises that is outside of the scope of training our staff have received, we may make the decision to notify you and/or a medical professional. In extreme cases where we feel your camper may pose a risk to themselves or others, we will be in contact with you to create an exit plan for your camper. Instances that may require removal of your camper from the program could include suicidal ideation, self harm including extreme eating disorders, or other harmful behaviours. While our goal is to help support your camper through a successful session at camp, we do not have social workers, therapists, or mental health professionals on staff. It is important that if a situation arises that is beyond the level of training that our staff have received, you are involved with us to create a plan to support your camper’s needs, even if that means removing them from camp. Our number one priority is always the safety of your camper.

All Day campers will need to bring the following items each day they come to camp. We suggest that you pack everything in a backpack. Please label it with their name or attach a tag. Please use our downloadable packing list to be sure your camper is prepared for camp. Backpack Lunch and two snacks (must be nut free) Refillable water bottle Running shoes Sandals/water shoes for swimming, boating, and/or water games Sunscreen and bug repellant Hat and sunglasses Weather-appropriate clothing: rain gear, extra sweater, etc. Bathing suit and towel Change of clothes The YMCA is not responsible for lost or damaged items. Please keep valuables at home. Please leave at home These items will be confiscated at drop-off and returned to the parent at pick-up: Hand-held games (e.g., Nintendo Switch) Cell phones Money Water guns

Illness/Injury at Camp Your Camper’s safety is our first priority. All day camp staff are fully trained and certified in First Aid and CPR. In the event of a minor incident, YMCA staff will provide immediate appropriate care. All day camp counsellors carry a basic First Aid kid with them during the camp day. Each site has a full First Aid kit. In the event that your child needs medical attention apart from minor injuries, we will ensure immediate, staff-accompanied transportation to the nearest hospital via ambulance. We will make every effort to contact you or your designated authorized/emergency contact(s), and will stay with your camper until you arrive. Please note, you will be billed for any additional costs. Sun Sense With continued concern over the health due to extended sun exposure, we ask that campers bring: A good sun hat (keep in mind that baseball hats do not cover the ears or back of the neck) Water bottle Sunscreen Please make sure your camper arrives at camp wearing sunscreen and pack some to reapply during the day. Medication at Camp Camp staff are able to support the administration of medication; however, it is preferable that children receive all medication at home. If your child requires medication by injection (e.g., Insulin), please speak to the Site Supervisor as additional terms, conditions, and training on your child’s Individual Care Plan is required. Medication must be submitted directly to the Site Supervisor for safe keeping and cannot be stored in your child’s backpack. If your child requires them, we recommend that you send along two inhalers and/or EpiPens® with your child where possible. One will need to be carried by your child at all times (we suggest that you send a hip sack for easy carrying). The backup will be kept with the counsellor supervising your child's group throughout the day. The counsellor will carry both inhalers/EpiPens® at the parents' request.

Camp is where many campers learn to swim, and all have the chance to have fun in the water. We are proud to offer swimming as part of our programming. We abide by standards set out by the Lifesaving Society and Ontario Camps Association. All campers are required to wear lifejackets while swimming in any YMCA Day Camp programs both outdoor and indoor Y buildings. Please reinforce to your camper that this policy is for their own safety and is non-negotiable. Boating At Camp Wildwood, Camp Conestogo and Shades Mills boating is offered as an activity. Boating consists of either kayaking or canoeing. All campers will be given the opportunity to learn boating skills while they attend the camp program. Please note that all campers must wear a life jacket at all times while in the boats.

Our promise is to deliver on these eight expectations of YMCA campers: YMCA Camp is fun Fun is the most important part of being a camper. YMCA Camp is safe YMCA Camps are committed to camper social, emotional, and physical safety. Participants feel safe at camp. YMCA Camp is a place to build friendships Relationships built at camp last the week, a summer, or a lifetime. YMCA Camp is a place to belong Campers embrace taking good care of themselves, others, and their camp. And feel like they are part of something special. YMCA Campers learn valuable skills at camp Participants have unique opportunities to be challenged to grow in spirit, mind, and body. YMCA Camp values nature Nature is cornerstone to the camp experience. Campers are stewards of their natural surroundings. YMCA Camp provides a high quality of care Participants have clean and inviting spaces to call home, where they enjoy wholesome, balanced meals. YMCA Camp is a place to return You are welcome today, tomorrow, and 50 years from now, as a camper, camper family, camp staff, or camp alumnus.

Once you’ve created a camp account, you can login at any time to edit forms, download receipts, check payment schedules, and add weeks of camp. Please check your calendar to see if the dates that you plan to send your child to camp are the same as are listed in our system. If you have an issue with your child's registration, please let us know as soon as possible so we can address it by calling 519-699-5100 or sending an email. Access your CampBrain account here. Forgot your password? You can reset your account by entering the email address you used to create the account and clicking “forgot my password” on the CampBrain login screen. Keeping in Touch Please inform the Camping Team at 519-699-5100 or camp@ytr.ymca.ca if any of your contact information changes. It is important to us to maintain current phone, email, mailing address and emergency/authorized pickup information.

Please label your camper’s belongings to ensure lost items can be returned. At the end of each Camp session, we will send out a photo of all lost and found items. If you identify something of yours in the photo, please contact the site supervisor at your day camp location. All lost and found items must be claimed by the last day of camp programming August 23, 2024. All remaining items will be donated to a local charity. Did you know you can support your camp while ordering your camper's labels from Mabel's Labels? Start here: https://mabelslabels.ca/en_CA/fundraising/support/ Search for your camp: YMCA of Three Rivers Day Camps Happy shopping!

Jumpers is for children who are ages 3 to 5 and have completed Surfers or show an equivalent skill level. In Jumpers, we'll introduce the front and back crawl as well as underwater swimming. Children at this level will have achieved a foundation of swimming skills and be able to front swim a distance of 25 metres. Jumpers is taught in small groups by a certified swim instructor who will inspire your child to reach their potential in the water.

Divers is for children who are ages 3 to 5 and have completed Gliders or show an equivalent level of skill. In Divers, children will combine all the skills they have learned so far to swim on their front and back unaided for a distance of 10 metres. Your child will also learn to jump into and float in deep water unassisted. Divers is taught in small groups by a certified swim instructor who will tailor the learning experience to your child's needs.

Bobbers is for children ages 3 to 5 who are new to swimming. In Bobbers, we introduce fun activities in the water to activate the movements that will eventually lead to swimming. By the end, your child will be comfortable having their face in the water and will have learned basic movements while being supported. Bobbers is taught in small groups by a certified swim instructor who will help your children feel comfortable in the water without a parent/caregiver.

Surfers is for children ages 3 to 5 who have completed Divers or show an equivalent level of competence. In Surfers, we'll continue to help your child develop front and back swimming skills and build up to a distance of 15 metres. And now that your child is comfortable jumping into the water, we'll work on some creative, fun entries – ker-splash! Surfers is taught in small groups by a certified swim instructor who will share their love of swimming with your child.

Floaters is for children ages 3 to 5 who have completed Bobbers or equivalent. In Floaters, we introduce floating and gliding and continue to practice other movements. Through structured activities and play, children will also become comfortable submerging themselves under water. Floaters is taught in small groups by a certified swim instructor who will continue to encourage your child to build their confidence in the water.

Gliders is for children who are ages 3 to 5 and have completed Floaters or show an equivalent level of competence. In Gliders, children will combine kicking with gliding to learn how to propel themselves through the water. Gliders is taught in small groups by a certified swim instructor who will encourage your child's progression.

Star 1 is for children ages 6 to 12 who have completed the swimmer level in our Learn to Swim program or who show an equivalent skill level. In this class, kids will learn to use the whip kick on their back and the egg-beater motion for treading water. We will help your child continue to develop front and back crawl technique and endurance. As the first level of our YMCA star program, in star 1, we also introduce your child to other aspects of swimming. Kids select which new skills they would like to learn from a list that includes competitive swimming, lifesaving, synchronized swimming, aquatic fitness, and water polo. Star 1 is taught in groups of eight to 12 participants by a certified swim instructor who will guide your child through each lesson.

The third level of our YMCA star program, Star 3 is for children ages 6 to 12 years old who have completed Star 2 or who show an equivalent skill level. In this level your child will focus on the breaststroke and egg-beater motion for treading water, while continuing to build endurance in the pool. We will also introduce young swimmers to introductory lifesaving concepts. Building on the optional skills learned in Star 2, kids will select from a new set of skills they would like to learn. They may choose to try something new or focus on one area – the choice is theirs. Skills include competitive swimming, lifesaving, synchronized swimming, aquatic fitness, and water polo. Star 3 is taught in groups of eight to 12 participants by a certified swim instructor who will nurture the love of swimming in your child.

Star 2 is for children ages 6 to 12 who have completed Star 1 or who show an equivalent skill level. At this level we focus on the backstroke, and continue to help kids refine their stroke technique and increase their endurance. The second level of our YMCA Star Program, in Star 2 we continue to encourage your child to build on the optional skills they selected in Star 1. Your child may choose to try something new, or continue to focus on one area –the choice is theirs. Optional skills include competitive swimming, lifesaving, synchronized swimming, aquatic fitness, and water polo. Star 2 is taught in groups of eight to 12 participants by a certified swim instructor who will share their passion for swimming.

Star 4 is for children ages 6 to 12 who have completed Star 3 or who show an equivalent skill level. In this level we will help your child focus on the sidestroke, and we will continue to introduce lifesaving skills. Your child will also continue to explore other interests in the pool by selecting more optional skills to learn. They may choose to try something new or focus on one area – the choice is theirs. Options include competitive swimming, lifesaving, synchronized swimming, aquatic fitness, or water polo.Star 4 is taught in groups of eight to 12 participants by a certified swim instructor who will work with your child to learn each new skill.

All Programs Group Fitness Schedule

All Programs Group Fitness Schedule Swim Lesson Schedule Racquet Court Bookings Youth Specialized Programs (13+)

All Programs Group Fitness Schedule Swim Lesson Schedule Racquet Court Bookings Youth Specialized Programs (13+)

All Programs Group Fitness Schedule Swim Lesson Schedule Racquet Court Bookings Youth Specialized Programs (13+)

All Programs Group Fitness Schedule Swim Lesson Schedule Racquet Court Bookings Youth Specialty Programs (13+)

1. Select the schedule for the location/program you are looking for. 2. Use the date selector at the top of the schedule to select the date range you are looking for. 3. Click on the program for more information and to register. 4. If you are a member, simply use the same email and password as you have for your member portal and book your visit directly from the schedule. If you would like to further refine your search for programs: Click the filter button to show the drop-down menus to filter through our locations, programs, and services. Use the "Filter by Class" or "Filter by Category" drop-down menus to find the programs you are interested in. Click "Apply Filters" to show available programs.

Virtual Programs

All Programs Group Fitness Schedule Swim Lesson Schedule Youth Specialized Programs (13+)

The financial assistance that we offer is based on your total household income and number of dependents, and determined by resources provided by Statistics Canada. Our Membership Assistance ranges from 50-60% of the regular membership rates. Please note the YMCA of Three Rivers only accepts the Blue and Orange subsidy levels from Fee Assist for Health and Wellness membership. If you receive another colour code on your application, you may not be eligible for financial assistance for a Health and Wellness membership.

A membership commitment is required for six (6) months, however, your membership will remain active for one year or until you provide notice of cancellation. On an annual basis you will need to update your application in the fee assist website (feeassist.ca) and then provide your colour card to renew your YMCA membership.

For the process of application, we require that you visit and complete an application with Fee Assistance for Recreation (feeassist.ca). Any documentation you provide is kept confidential. After your assessment if you choose to take out a membership, our expectation is that you commit to making monthly payments for your membership by pre-authorized credit card or bank account. A void cheque is required to set up pre-authorized bank account payments.

No one will be denied access to any YMCA program or service solely because of an inability to pay the full fee, however, each member is asked to pay a portion of the fees associated with their membership. These fees are determined by the assessment provided at the time of application. The decisions to take up memberships are then based on budget priorities of families and individuals.

Star 6 is for children ages 6 to 12 who have completed Star 5 or show an equivalent skill level. Swimmers will continue to develop lifesaving and first aid skills at the Ranger and Star level of the Canadian Swim Patrol program. They will also begin to learn how to teach others to swim. Star 6 encourages your child to take responsibility for their own learning outcomes by selecting optional skills to learn, including advanced strokes, water polo, synchronized swimming, or aquatic fitness. Led by a certified swim instructor, swimmers can work together in groups to reach their goals. After completion of Star 6, your child will be eligible to be certified as a Ranger in the Canadian Swim Patrol program.

Star 5 is for children ages 6 to 12 who have completed Star 4 or who show an equivalent skill level. We will introduce the butterfly stroke along with lifesaving and first aid elements from the Rookie and Ranger levels of the Canadian Swim Patrol program. Swimmers will also have the opportunity to continue to develop advanced aquatic skills by selecting from a range of options: advanced strokes, water polo, synchronized swimming, or aquatic fitness. Led by a certified swim instructor, swimmers will work together in groups to reach their goals. After completion of Star 5, your child will be eligible to be certified as a Rookie in the Canadian Swim Patrol program.

Location: 450 Avenue Rd., Cambridge, ON N1R 5S4 A hidden gem in Cambridge, Shade’s Mills connects campers with nature through forest exploration, hikes, and critter observation. Mill Creek offers great fishing and frog-catching opportunities. Site Highlights: Lake swimming with sandy beach Kayaking Archery

Location: 3738 Hessen Strasse, St. Clements, ON N0B 2M0 Camp Ki-Wa-Y’s Ki-Wa-Y Days offers a perfect introduction to traditional camp activities on a beautiful 77-acre site at Paradise Lake, just minutes from Waterloo. With its own picnic shelter and field, day campers also enjoy access to the larger camp's attractions, making it an ideal transition to overnight camp. Site Highlights: Lake swimming with sandy beach Canoeing Archery High and low ropes courses Climbing wall Thursday night family campfire Pizza Day Fridays

Location: 5422 Jones Base Line, Guelph, ON N1H 6J1 Located at Guelph Lake, Camp Conestogo offers lakefront fun, forest adventures, and exciting activities. Campers enjoy swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and exploring the large forested area with nature hikes, games, and campfire building. Site Highlights: Sandy beach with lake swimming Canoeing and kayaking Low ropes course Archery Gaga ball Nature games

Location: 2001 Kressler Rd., Waterloo, ON N2J 3Z4 Just minutes from Waterloo, this 73-acre site is perfect for exploration and skill-building. Campers enjoy the hardwood forest, cedar swamp, and wetlands, fostering a connection with nature. Site Highlights: Archery Climbing wall Gaga ball Pond exploration program

Location: 0008 Third Line, Fergus, ON N1M 2W4 New in 2025: We’re enhancing our offerings to better serve campers and families! More Day Camp Spots: Double the space for day campers to enjoy lakeside fun. Optional Bus Service: Convenient daily travel from RIM Park to camp and back. Intro to Overnight Camp: A new 3-night overnight option for campers to ease into the experience. A vibrant home away from home, Camp Belwood fosters community, independence, and responsibility. Campers enjoy classic activities on a sunny, lakeside three-acre site. Site Highlights: Swimming pool Sailing Canoeing and kayaking Archery BMX biking

Location: 3995 Line 9, St. Marys, ON N4X 1C5 This 3,500-acre outdoor paradise near Stratford is perfect for skill-building, exploration, and lasting memories. Campers enjoy hiking, swimming, and field games while connecting with nature. Site Highlights: Lake swimming with sandy beach Canoeing Archery Campfire

250 Hespeler Rd. Cambridge, ON N1R 3H3 Cost: $300/week — fee assistance available Ages 4 to 8 Register Today.

500 Fischer-Hallman Rd N Waterloo, ON N2L 0B1 Cost: $300/week — fee assistance available Ages 4 to 8 Register Today

204 Downie St. Stratford, ON N5A 1X4 Cost: $300/week — fee assistance available Ages 4 to 8 Register Today

333 Carwood Ave. Kitchener, ON N2G 3C5 Cost: $300/week — fee assistance available. Ages 4 to 8 Register Today

130 Woodland Glen Dr., Guelph, ON N1G 4M3 Cost: $3oo/week — fee assistance available Ages 4 to 8 Register Today

After clicking REGISTER NOW, you’ll be redirected to the CampBrain Registration Portal to create a new household account. The email address that you use for the account will be the main email address we use to connect with you. *Bookmark this page (ytr.campbrainregistration.com) to make logging back into your account easier. Select the CAMP that you are registering for (e.g. Day Camps 2025, or Overnight Camp Belwood, etc.). Enter your camper's information (name, age, and gender identity). Follow the steps to select your SESSION. The camps available for that session with their prices will appear. Select the camps you wish to register for and click "add to cart". Once you’ve selected all the sessions and camps, click on “continue”. Complete online FORMS. Mandatory forms are marked with a red asterisk (*). Follow the steps to complete PAYMENT. If you have applied for fee assistance please email our office at camp@ytr.ymca.ca with you colour level and pin number. This will be applied to your registration. if you receive subsidy, please STOP here and call the camp office at 519-699-5100. You will receive a confirmation email shortly after finalizing your registration Next Steps You can login to your CampBrain registration at any time to verify your session dates, confirm payment amounts and complete all forms prior to summer. If you need to make a change to your registration, please email our camp team. We'll keep in touch with you through the email address linked to your account. Be sure to check your inbox for important updates and details about an exciting summer! Video: How to Register Your Camper Online (9m 28s)

Bussing is limited and only available at certain sites. More details will be available when the 2025 camp registration opens.

If a camp week is full, you may choose to add your child(ren) to the waitlist. When you are logged into our online summer camp registration site, you will see an orange "waitlist available" indicator beside each week. To add your child to the waitlist, click on "show details", then "add to waitlist". Be sure to complete the checkout process – there is no charge to join the waitlist, but your spot on the waitlist will only be confirmed once checkout is complete. If a space becomes available, our office team will send you an email with instructions on how to claim the spot and complete enrollment. Waitlist priority is determined by the date and time the request was submitted, so we recommend adding your child to the waitlist as soon as possible!

We want to make sure that YMCA camps are right for your family and that campers are ready to be successful at camp. Here are some things to keep in mind: At our Overnight and Outdoor Day Camp locations spend 70% or more each day outdoors. We believe that the best learning and growth happen in our natural environment where children can connect, explore, and thrive. Campers learn about healthy risk taking through challenging, well-supervised activities such as swimming, climbing, hiking, and boating. Camp Readiness Checklist Can your camper: Take direction and instruction from a staff person and understand safety instructions? Interact and participate within the camp environment? Interact and participate in a way that is safe for themselves and others? Attend school successfully? Fully dress and change themselves independently? Use the toilet by themselves during the day? If you answered “no” to any of these questions or if you feel your camper requires additional support or accommodations for special needs, please call the camp office at 519-699-5100 or email prior to registration.

Deposits made at the time of registration are nonrefundable. Any cancellations or session changes must be done prior to May 15 to be eligible for a refund (less the deposit).

Payment Information and Policies We accept Visa, Mastercard, and Visa Debit. Deposits A non-refundable deposit is required at the time of registration: $50 per child per session for Day Camps $200 per child per session for Overnight Camps The deposit is part of the total session cost, not an additional fee. For example, if a session costs $320, paying the $50 deposit at registration leaves a remaining balance of $270. Flexible Payment Options To ensure all children can attend camp, we offer flexible payment plans and work with third-party subsidy providers. Families can choose from the following payment options: Pay the full fee at the time of registration. Set up monthly installments (less the deposit), to be completed by May 15. Schedule the remaining balance (less the deposit) to be paid in full on May 15. Important Deadlines Cancellation Policy: May 15, 2025, is the last day to cancel a session and receive a refund, minus the deposit. Final Payment Deadline: All camp fees must be paid in full no later than two weeks prior to the start of the registered camp session. If registering within two weeks of the session start date, camp fees must be paid in full at the time of registration to secure a spot. Additional Policies Refunds are not provided for missing camp due to illness. In the event of a declined or incomplete payment, we will contact you promptly to update your payment information. Updated payment details must be provided within one week to ensure your child's spot is secured. Failure to meet payment deadlines may result in your child losing their spot at camp. For further support or questions, please contact our office at 519-699-5100. Please note: Credit card payments made to YMCA of Three Rivers may appear on your credit card statement description as "*BAM YMCA of KW", "Bambora Internet Wholesale", or “Bambora Internet PSP”.

The YMCA of Three Rivers believes that every child should have the opportunity to attend camp. If your family cannot afford camp, you may be eligible for sponsorship through the YMCA of Three Rivers or one of our community partners. Fee assistance programs are different for families across our Three Rivers’ Communities (Guelph-Wellington, Stratford-Perth, and Waterloo Region). Details on programs for each region are below. Please note: You are able to register for your space in day camp while you are waiting for fee assistance confirmation. To apply for fee assistance, most social support services require you to provide Proof of Income or a Notice of Assessment (this information must be resubmitted yearly). Please choose your camp locations based on where you are applying for fee assistance (i.e., County of Wellington Child Care Subsidy funds campers attending Guelph camps). We do all we can to make sure you can access fee assistance for camp. Please note that fee assistance is subject to funding availability and camper family eligibility. Interested in giving the gift of camp to children in your community? Donate to our Camp Fund. If you are applying for fee assistance, during the registration process: Set up a household account in the camp registration portal. Register for the camp weeks you are interested in. Once you get to the PAYMENT step, STOP and call our office at 519-699-5100 to speak to camp staff about the next steps. Once you receive your confirmation of subsidy letter, please call our office at 519-699-5100. We will finalize your camp registration, apply your subsidized amount, and set up a flexible payment plan for the remaining fees. Canada-Wide Early Learning & Child Care (CWLECC) Please note that YMCA Day Camp are recreation programs and do not qualify for Canada-Wide Early Learning & Child Care (CWLECC) fee reduction for children under six. For summer programs that offer CWLECC please visit our Child Care page. Fee Assist Eligibility: For qualifying day and overnight campers who live in Waterloo Region, Stratford-Perth, or Guelph and Wellington County and all the YMCA of Three Rivers camp locations. For qualifying day campers: To apply please visit the fee assist website and follow these steps: Click "Start your Fee Assist application". Create an account or login to your account. Submit your name, address, and email address, and follow the link sent to you. Submit your family household information and upload your income documentation. Within two to three days of completing your registration, you will receive a QUICK INFO CARD via email with a COLOUR CODE and PIN NUMBER. While you are waiting for subsidy confirmation, follow the camp registration steps outlined above. Jumpstart Eligibility: For qualifying day and overnight campers. https://jumpstart.canadiantire.ca/pages/individual-child-grants Families may qualify for up to three weeks at one overnight camp per child per summer and up to four weeks at one day camp per child per summer. Kids in Camp Eligibility: For qualifying day and overnight campers. https://kidsincamp.com/parents-campers/ Please reach out to camp@ytr.ymca.ca for an application form. Guelph-Wellington County Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington Eligibility: For qualifying day and overnight campers who live in Guelph-Wellington County and are planning on attending camp at Camp Belwood, Camp Conestoga, and/or the Guelph Y. The Children's Foundation of Guelph Free to Grow Program nurtures the physical, social, emotional, and mental well-being of children and youth by funding recreational and life-skill opportunities such as sports, arts, camps, driver's education training and leadership development. For more information about eligibility and how to apply for financial assistance, please visit their website or call their office at 519-826-9951 ext. 23 Stratford-Perth City of Stratford Eligibility: For qualifying day campers who live in Perth County. To determine if your household is eligible for fee subsidy, please contact the City of Stratford Children’s Services Department by either: Phone: (519) 271-3773 ext. 200 Toll Free: 1-800-669-2948 Email: childrensservices@stratford.ca You will be required to complete a Fee Subsidy application. Once approved, you will receive a correspondence from the City of Stratford Children’s Services Department indicating the amount of subsidy you are eligible to receive. While you are waiting for subsidy confirmation, follow the camp registration steps outlined above. For more information click here. Waterloo Region Region of Waterloo Waterloo Region Child Care Subsidy Eligibility: For qualifying day campers up to and including age 12 who live in Waterloo Region and are planning on attending camp at Camp Heidelberg, A.R. Kaufman Family Y, Chaplin Family Y, and Shade's Mills. Learn more through the website here. The House of Friendship Family Outreach Program Eligibility: For qualifying day and overnight campers who live in Waterloo Region and are planning on attending camp at any YMCA of Three Rivers camp location in Waterloo Region. Connect with a family outreach worker to explore how they can help you send your kids to camp by: Filling out their application form, calling 519-742-8327 x 240, or emailing info@familyoutreach.ca While you are waiting for subsidy confirmation, follow the camp registration steps outlined above.

Cooperative Games These active games provide groups with the opportunity to have fun and interact with each other in fun ways they might not ordinarily. The purpose of these activities is to have a lot of fun while being active outside. Teambuilding Initiatives: This activity is focused on building leadership skill while encouraging teamwork, trust and communication, with emphasis on the process rather than a goal. The purpose of this activity is have fun while building important skills as a team or group.

High Ropes – Tree Course: Challenge yourself on our high ropes course. Located in a wooded area, a brief walk from central camp, the ropes course has five elements ranging from 25-40 feet high in the trees. Participants are connected to a belay system with one of our trained staff while climbing. We provide and sanitize all necessary safety equipment, including a helmet and harness. For this course one element would be completed in a 1-hour period. Participants must be age five and older. High Ropes – Static Course: Our static course offers an added challenge to high ropes by providing climbers the opportunity to climb freely through up to eight connected elements. This course uses helmet and harness as safety equipment with an additional self-belay system; smart belay (all safety equipment is supplied). The static course requires a minimum of two hours to complete. We are not able to guarantee use of this course for all day trips. Participants must be grade six and older. This activity is limited to overnight youth groups and adult groups.

We have a campfire area in a large natural amphitheater where the staff will lead the group through songs and interactive skits. On cold or wet weather this activity can be done indoors in front of a fireplace. This is a great way to end a day trip or cap off evenings of an overnight stay.

Hikes & Earth Walks: Both of these activities involve leisurely walks, suitable for all ages and fitness levels, along beautiful forest trail. Nature hikes and earth walks both encourage the exploration of nature using different senses. A nature hike focuses more on identification and facts, and an earth walk focuses more on hands-on exploration of the natural world in new, exciting and unexpected ways. Fire Building: This outdoor survival skill focused activity teaches participants how to build different styles of campfires. Shelter Building: This outdoor survival skill focused activity encourages participants to work together to build different styles of shelters using natural materials found in the forest. Nature Games: Groups explore nature while playing fun games.

Low Ropes Our low ropes course helps build communication, problem solving, and teamwork skills with a variety of different physical and mental challenges. Each challenge is approximately knee height from the ground located in its own wooded areas.

Using a compass and a list of directions, participants learn how to use the navigation tool to find their way to various checkpoints around the site.

Using electronic GPS devices and coordinates, participants learn to operate the device and follow its direction to find hidden caches around the site. The program allows them to explore independently, navigate the course, and work together to locate the caches. 

This activity is a great way to get your entire group involved in a fun game outside. Some of the games might include capture the flag, sardines, stones, etc.

The focus of this program is to equip you with the knowledge required to string bows and release the arrow safely. 

Our 25-foot, two-sided climbing structure has four different courses that will challenge all levels of climbers. Participants are connected to a belay system with one of our trained staff and must wear a harness and helmet (provided).

All boating activities begin with a water safety lesson, which includes proper lifejacket and paddle selection, taught and supervised by a National Lifeguard (NL) qualified outdoor centre staff member. Paddlers are made aware of boating boundaries, and instructors are on the dock or on the water in a boat, ready to provide on-going instruction and supervision.  Students learn the fundamentals of canoeing, including history, parts of the boat, safe entry and exit, and basic paddle strokes. The goal of this program is to equip students with enough skill and knowledge to participate in a group paddle after the initial lesson. Please note that due to a shortage of National Lifeguard certified staff, Canoeing and Swimming activities are subject to availability and may be limited. We are doing our best to address the staffing shortage and thank you for your patience and understanding.

Our program is designed to cater to both beginners and experienced kayakers, ensuring that every camper has a fantastic and safe experience on the water. Under the guidance of our skilled and certified instructors, campers will learn essential kayaking skills, such as paddling techniques, safety procedures, and how to navigate various water conditions. Please note that due to a shortage of National Lifeguard certified staff, kayaking activities are subject to availability and may be limited. We are doing our best to address the staffing shortage and thank you for your patience and understanding.

Students swim in a designated swimming area which is supervised by our qualified National Lifeguard (NL) staff while adhering to YMCA policies, as well as O.C.A. (Ontario Camping Association) standards.  Please note that due to a shortage of National Lifeguard-Certified staff, Canoeing and Swimming activities are subject to availability and may be limited. We are doing our best to address the staffing shortage and thank you for your patience and understanding.

In the past, snowshoes were necessary for fur traders and others who needed to get around in deep snow. Today's snowshoes are used mainly for recreation, but forest rangers (and outdoor centre staff) often require them to reach areas not easily accessible to vehicles. Students learn basic snowshoeing techniques and a little bit of history. We explore the 77 acres of field and forest on snowshoes, while participating in a series of games and activities.

When Paradise Lake freezes, there is a rink cleared for skating. This activity allows people of all abilities to learn, adapt and develop their skating skills. This activity is dependent on weather, and we closely monitor the thickness of the ice as the season progresses. Participants provide their own equipment.

A Quinzhee is a traditional Canadian snow shelter that is made from a large pile of loose snow which is shaped then hollowed. This is in contrast to an igloo, which is built up from blocks of hard snow, and a snow cave, constructed by digging into the snow.

Students enjoy the outdoors in the winter months, while actively participating in sledding with their classmates. Sleds and helmets are provided.

Explore a future in the skilled trades. Power of Trades helps newcomers to Canada access jobs in the skilled trades in Ontario. All services are offered free of charge. This program is offered at no cost to participants. Not sure if the skilled trades are right for you? Skilled trades are hands-on jobs in the construction, motive power, industrial, and service sectors. There are over 140 skilled trades to choose from, like automotive repair, landscaping, child care, and masonry. These careers offer great opportunities for advancement, high salaries and options for self-employment. The Power of Trades program is a pre-employment training program for newcomers to Canada. During a four-week session, you will receive information and advice about finding and keeping a job in the skilled trades in Ontario. The training includes understanding the apprenticeship process in Ontario, preparing for the Certificate of Qualification exam, labour laws and regulations in Ontario, understanding what Canadian trades employers look for in a new employee, resume and interview preparation, guest speakers from local industry, and other useful information and activities. After completing the four-week classroom training, participants take part in a three-week work placement in the skilled trade of their choice. Program includes: Four weeks of in-class preparation training A three-week work placement in a skilled trade of your choice Orientation to skilled trades and apprenticeships Access to workplace certifications that employers require for new employees Ongoing individual job search support Participants must: Be a permanent resident or convention refugee Be an Ontario resident Have a strong interest in the skilled trades CUAET Be temporary residence holders from Palestine Be 18 years of age or older Services for employers: Help with staffing needs Access to job fairs and customized hiring sessions Access to a pool of pre-screened candidates of all skill levels in all four trades sectors Work placements with pre-screened, mature learners Register today! The next session begins on Oct 15, 2024 in Kitchener. Secure your place in our next session by filling out the registration form. For more information about skilled trades, please contact: 519 574 8527 or email us. Power of Trades is an IRCC funded program for internationally trained professional newcomers

Supporting newcomer and marginalized women to achieve their goals in Canada. The Investing in Women's Futures program helps immigrant and racialized people who identify as women, and non-binary people to achieve their goals and aspirations in Canada by helping them learn essentials skills. Click here to register. If you have any questions, please contact Ananya, IWF Program Coordinator by email or phone: 519-489-2403 Investing in Women’s Futures is funded by Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, Ontario.

Discover Your Path with Our Mentorship Program Are you an internationally trained professional seeking guidance and support as you embark on your career journey in Canada? Look no further! Our Mentorship Program is here to create meaningful connections that propel your professional aspirations forward. How It Works: Our program carefully matches you with a dedicated Canadian Mentor whose expertise aligns with your professional background. This dynamic partnership spans four to six months. During this time, you'll gain valuable insights into Canadian workplace culture, be updated on labour market trends, and expand your professional network. We're excited to help you build bridges to success and integrate seamlessly into the Canadian professional landscape. Join as a Mentee You are welcome to join the program as a mentee if you: Are an internationally trained professional with valid confirmation of credentials Are a permanent resident or Convention refugee Possess English proficiency of level 7 or above (based on Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score with valid proof) If you are an internationally trained professional interested in joining the program, please complete the Mentee Application and send it along with your resume to the program facilitator who will contact you and invite you to an orientation session. For more information or to take the first step toward an enriching mentorship experience, please reach out to us by email. Join as a Mentor Ready to Make a Difference? Join us in our mission to empower newcomers by becoming a Mentor in the Mentorship Program. Mentors are empathetic, sensitive, and dedicated professionals with a good understanding of the current labour market. If you are willing to help professional newcomers, please join our team of volunteer mentors. Click here to view our currently needed mentor roles. If you are interested in becoming a mentor, please complete the Mentor Application. Orientation sessions will be provided for mentors. Mentorship Program is an IRCC funded program for internationally trained professional newcomer

Connect and learn with newcomer women across cultures. This program is designed for newcomer women to share experiences, learn new skills, connect with the community, and develop healthy habits for mental health. The Healthy Women Together program is open to people who identify as women and who are new to the community. Priority will be given to Permanent Residents, Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Transport, and Convention Refugees. The new term will start in the winter of 2025. If you would like to participate, please fill out the waitlist form below or click here. Join the Wait List If you have any questions please contact Jin D. Healthy Women Together is an IRCC funded program for newcomer women.

Practice your spoken English with others. This program provides newcomers with an opportunity to meet other newcomers, make new friends, learn about Waterloo Region, and build confidence while practicing their spoken English. English Conversation Circles Fall Term Dates: September 16 – December 12, 2024 Days and Times: Monday, 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. (Forest Heights Community Centre - 1700 Queen's Blvd, Kitchener) Tuesday, 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (Kitchener Public Library, Central Location - 85 Queen St N, Kitchener) Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (McCormick Branch, Waterloo Public Library - 500 Parkside Dr, Waterloo) Thursday, 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. (Chaplin Family YMCA, Immigrant Services office - 250 Hespeler Rd, Cambridge) To register, please fill out this form. If you have any questions please contact Fabio R. or Jin D. Conversation Circles is an IRCC funded program for newcomers

Make new friends, discover new cultures, and explore your community. The Canada Connect Program is your introduction to building meaningful connections and exploring your new community. Canada Connect helps you find the social support that you need to thrive in your new home. Through Canada Connect, we help newcomer families integrate into new communities quickly and easily. How Can Joining the Program Help You? Personalized Connection You'll be matched with a Canadian family, a settled family, or an individual for four to six months. They will provide you with a support system and a friendly face in your new home. Social Adventures Together with your CONNECTOR(s), you can attend social events, explore the community, and have fun while discovering all that Canada has to offer. Expand Your Network Connect with other newcomers and make lifelong friends along the way. Monthly Events Join our monthly social and informational events designed exclusively for newcomers registered in the Canada Connect program. These events are filled with helpful tips, cultural experiences, and opportunities to meet fellow newcomers. What Our CONNECTORs Do: Personalized Matches Our CONNECTORs are carefully matched with newcomers based on shared neighbourhood locations, common interests, similar family dynamics, and other factors that promote natural and enjoyable connections. First Friends They are your first friends in Canada, offering a warm and welcoming hand to help newcomers feel supported and integrated into their new environment. Build Lasting Bonds While formal matches officially last four to six months, our CONNECTORs often form bonds that lead to long-lasting friendships and support. Our CONNECTORs are the heart of Canada Connect, committed to making your journey to settling in Canada a memorable and fulfilling one. Join us today and let our CONNECTORs help you thrive in your new home If you are interested in joining the Canada Connect Program, please complete the CONNECTEE application form by clicking here. Become a CONNECTOR Volunteer Our dedicated CONNECTORs play a pivotal role in helping newcomers transition smoothly into their new lives and new communities. Our CONNECTORs are established immigrant or Canadian-born families committed to fostering connections, friendships, and a sense of belonging within the community. CONNECTORs will be matched with newcomers based on living in a common neighbourhood, sharing common interests, having similar family composition, and other factors that will help make connections easy and fun. Our CONNECTORs are committed to making newcomer families’ transition to Canada as seamless and enriching as possible. Here's what you can expect: Regular Connection: CONNECTORs dedicate one to two hours per week to engaging with newcomers, ensuring consistent support and interaction. Share Experiences: CONNECTORs offer a diverse range of shared experiences and activities that help newcomers connect with the local community and culture. Social and Well-being Support: Beyond practical assistance, CONNECTORs provide social support, fostering a sense of well-being and making newcomers feel valued and welcomed. If you are interested in becoming a CONNECTOR, please read the CONNECTOR Commitment, then complete the CONNECTOR application form. Canada Connect is an IRCC funded program for newcomers

Prepare to become a Canadian Citizen. The Citizenship Support Group is designed to help you prepare to take the Canadian Citizenship Exam. Using the Discover Canada book, we will provide you with many opportunities to learn, study, and practice material that will be on your exam. It is intended for Permanent Residents who have applied or are in the process of applying for Canadian Citizenship, and have English proficiency of CLB level 4 or above. Any materials you need will be provided before the first day of class. Clients who have not participated in the program before will be prioritized. Winter 2025 Session Information In-Person Citizenship Support Group Dates: January 8 — March 26, 2025 Time: Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Location: 800 King St W (Kitchener, ON) Click here to register Online Citizenship Support Group - Evening Group Dates: January 21 — March 4, 2025 Time: Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Location: Online (hosted on Zoom) Click here to register Online Citizenship Support Group - Morning Group Dates: January 24 — March 7, 2025 Time: Fridays, 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Location: Online (hosted on Zoom) Click here to register If you are interested in sessions at different times, please fill out this form to join our waitlist and be informed of other groups starting soon. If you have any questions, please contact Fabio R. Citizenship Support Group is an IRCC funded program for permanent immigrants

Learn to use a computer for daily life and work. The Computer Literacy Program for Newcomers teaches you to use the internet for tasks like job searching, Google apps (Docs, Sheets, and Slides), and Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint). If you are a Permanent Resident with an English level of 5 or above, you can register for the Beginner or Advanced level. In the Beginner class, you will learn basic computer skills such as exploring computer features, basic writing skills, writing emails, and typing. In the Advanced class, you will learn to create basic spreadsheets, basic formulas, presentations, and electronic signatures. Fall 2024 Session Information Basic Computer Literacy — Beginner Dates: October 2 to October 30, 2024 Times: Wednesdays, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Location: 800 King St W., Kitchener, ON Basic Computer Literacy — Microsoft Word and Google Docs Dates: November 6 to November 27, 2024 Times: Wednesdays, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Location: 800 King St W., Kitchener, ON Advanced Computer Literacy — Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets Dates: December 4 to December 18, 2024 Times: Wednesdays, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Location: 800 King St W., Kitchener, ON Advanced Computer Literacy — Microsoft PowerPoint and Google Slides Dates: January 8 to January 29, 2025 Times: Wednesdays, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Location: 800 King St W., Kitchener, ON Click here to register. If you have any questions, please contact Danica M. Computer Literacy Program is an IRCC funded program for newcomers

Build connections and community with other newcomer youth. Build lasting connections and a sense of community with fellow newcomer youth through our engaging program. Break cultural barriers, have fun, make friends, explore your new community, and share ideas and experiences in a safe space. Currently conducted in YMCA Health and Wellness facilities, this program is your key to fostering connections and embracing your new environment. The Newcomer Youth Program empowers youth ages 13 to 21 who have recently arrived in Canada with the knowledge and tools to successfully integrate into Canadian society. The program introduces youth to the community, provides them with resources and the opportunity to make meaningful connections with peers in a fun and inclusive environment. Program Highlights: Learn about your community Enhance English language skills Make new friends Enjoy a field trip experience Receive a free three-month YMCA membership upon program completion No cost to participate Registration is required. Click here to register. Please contact us by phone 519-741-8585 x3704 or email us for more information. Learn more about youth programs and schedules on our Youth Program Page. YMCA Newcomer Youth Programming is generously funded by:

Share your story through the performing arts. Through a partnership with MT Space, this program offers an opportunity for newcomer youth to learn new skills in the performing arts, build new friendships, practice language skills and develop leadership skills. Youth work together to perform stories about saying goodbye, adapting to a new culture, identity and belonging. Performances occur in the fall, during March Break, and in the spring. The following schools are currently, or have been involved in the delivery of the program: Waterloo CI, Eastwood CI, Galt CI, Forest Heights, and St. Mary's. For more information please email us. Program funding provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

Homework and language after school support. The Family Language & Learning program supports school-aged children (ages 5 to 16) in newcomer families with homework assistance and small group tutoring. This program is offered as a drop-in and provided in collaboration with United for Literacy tutors. Winter 2025 Session Information Dates: February 5 – April 2* Time: Wednesdays, 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Location: 800 King St W (1st floor), Kitchener, ON *There will be no session on February 19 and March 12. Click here to register. For more information, please contact Fabio R. by email. Program funding provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

Get ready for school in your new country. The Newcomer Orientation Week helps newcomer students get ready for high school. This program supports students that have not yet been in high school (grades 9 – 12) in Canada. NOW provides an orientation to school, tips for success, and an opportunity to make new friends. The program runs in the last week of August. 2024 Dates: August 26 – 28, 2024 The following schools are involved in the program: WRDSB: Waterloo CI, Eastwood CI, Galt CI, and Forest Heights WCDSB: St. Mary's High School, Resurrection High School, and St. David Catholic Secondary School To register: email us or call 519-742-8220 Newcomer Orientation Week provides newcomer students with an orientation to student life, school programs, and Ontario Secondary school system.

Location: 595 Watson parkway North, Guelph, N1E 6X2 Phone Number: 1-833-987-9622 ext. 3201 Supervisor: Vanessa Wiatr-Fraser Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) Non Licensed, Authorized Recreation Program

Location: 84 Kensington Street, Guelph, N1E 3P9 Phone Number: 519-821-8173 Supervisor: Karen G. Age Range and Hours of Operation: 3 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm)

Location: 189 Water Street, Guelph, N1G 1B3 Phone Number: 1-833-987-9622 ext. 3202 Supervisor: Olivia Langill Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 130 Woodland Glen Drive, Guelph, N1G 4M3 Phone Number: 519-824-3885 X 239 Supervisor: Lisa Wilson Age Range and Hours of Operation: 3 months to 4 years (6:30am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (After School Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 487 Grange Road, Guelph, N1E 7C4 Phone Number: 1-833-987-9622 ext. 3202 Supervisor: Olivia Langill Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 64 Brant Avenue, Guelph, N1E 1G2 Phone Number: 1-833-987-9622 ext. 3202 Supervisor: Olivia Langill Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 72 Lemon Street, Guelph, N1E 2H5 Phone Number: 1-833-987-9622 ext. 3202 Supervisor: Olivia Langill Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 97 Dublin Street North, Guelph, N1H 4N2 Phone Number: 1-833-987-9622 ext. 3202 Supervisor: Olivia Langill Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 25 Lee Street, Guelph, N1E 7E7 Phone Number: 1-833-987-9622 ext. 3202 Supervisor: Olivia Langill Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 150 Westwood Road, Guelph, N1H 7G1 Phone Number: 1-833-987-9622 ext. 3202 Supervisor: Olivia Langill Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 16 Old Brock Road, Puslinch, N0B 2J0 Phone Number: 1-833-987-9622 ext. 3201 Supervisor: Vanessa Wiatr-Fraser Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) Non Licensed, Authorized Recreation Program

Location: 5148 Wellington 27 Road, Rockwood, N0B 2K0 Phone Number: 226-812-0372 Supervisor: Tina C. Age Range and Hours of Operation: 3 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 30 Millwood Road, Erin, ON N0B 1T0 Phone Number: 519-833-2731 Supervisor: Jackie Cengija Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) Licensed Before School Program Non Licensed, Authorized Recreation After School Program

Location: 397 Stevenson Street North, Guelph, N1E 5C1 Phone Number: 519-821-8173 Supervisor: Karen Goodman Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) Licensed Before School Program Non Licensed, Authorized Recreation After School Program

Location: 207 MacLennan Street, Rockwood, N0B 2K0 Phone Number: 226-812-0372 Supervisor: Tina C. Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) Non Licensed, Authorized Recreation Program

Location: 10 Guelph Street, Guelph, N1H 5Y8 Phone Number: 1-833-987-9622 ext. 3201 Supervisor: Vanessa Wiatr-Fraser Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 5 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) Non Licensed, Authorized Recreation Program

Location: 160 Ironwood Road, Guelph, N1G 3R4 Phone Number: 519-824-9099 Supervisor: Alannah K. Age Range and Hours of Operation: 18 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 525 Grange Road, Guelph, N1E 7C4 Phone Number: 1-833-987-9622 ext. 3201 Supervisor: Vanessa Wiatr-Fraser Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) Non Licensed, Authorized Recreation Program

Location: 406 Paisley Road, Guelph, N1H 2R3 Phone Number: 1-833-987-9622 ext. 3202 Supervisor: Olivia Langill Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 9 McElderry Road, Guelph, N1G 4W7 Phone Number: 519-824-6096 Supervisor: Michelle Garon-Nielsen Age Range and Hours of Operation: 2.5 to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 33 Gateway Drive, Guelph, N1H 6X1 Phone Number: 1-833-987-9622 ext. 3201 Supervisor: Vanessa Wiatr-Fraser Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) Non Licensed, Authorized Recreation Program

Location: 56 Youngman Drive, Guelph, N1G 4L2 Phone Number: 519-767-2816 Supervisor: Ashlie Kuehl Age Range and Hours of Operation: 18 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 50 Laurine Avenue, Guelph, N1E 4M9 Phone Number: 1-833-987-9622 ext. 3201 Supervisor: Vanessa Wiatr-Fraser Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) Non Licensed, Authorized Recreation Program

Location: 315 Tucker Street, Arthur, N0G 1A0 Phone Number: 226-524-2222 Supervisor: Nicki U. Age Range and Hours of Operation: 18 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 185 Daniel Street, Erin, N0B 1T0 Phone Number: 519-833-2731 Supervisor: Jackie Cengija Age Range and Hours of Operation: 3 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm)

Location: 670 Willow Road, Guelph, N1H 8K2 Phone Number: 1-833-987-9622 ext. 3201 Supervisor: Vanessa Wiatr-Fraser Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) Non Licensed, Authorized Recreation Program

Location: 177 Rickson Avenue, Guelph, N1G 4Y6 Phone Number: 519-822-5106 Supervisor: Andrea M. Age Range and Hours of Operation: 18 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 8 Grange Street, Stratford, N5A 3P6 Phone Number: 519-271-0480 Supervisor: Tonya David Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (6:30am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 315 West Gore Street, Stratford, N5A 7N4 Phone Number: 519-271-0480 Supervisor: : Tonya David Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (6:30am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 2215 Fraser Street, Shakespeare, N0B 2P0 Phone Number: 226-779-4276 Supervisor: Lexi Wintemute Age Range and Hours of Operation: 3 months to 12 years (7:00am - 5:45pm, 7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 5:45pm)

Location: 204 Downie Street, Stratford, N5A 1X4 Phone Number: 519-271-0480 Supervisor: Tonya David Age Range and Hours of Operation: 2.5 to 6 years (7:00am - 6:00pm)

Location: 428 Norman Avenue, Stratford, N5A 6R7 Phone Number: 519-271-0480 Supervisor: Tonya David Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (6:30am – 6:00pm) Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

Location: 31 Huntingdon Avenue, Stratford, N5A 6N7 Phone Number: 519-271-0480 Supervisor: Tonya David Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (6:30am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 220 Oakdale Drive, Stratford,N5A 7W2 Phone Number: 519-273-9622 Supervisor: Sheri Schierholtz Age Range and Hours of Operation: 3 months to 4 years (6:30am - 6:00pm)

Location: 35 Mowatt Street, Stratford, N5A 2B8 Phone Number: 519-271-0480 Supervisor: Lexi W. Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (6:30am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 59 Bedford Drive, Stratford, N5A 5J7 Phone Number: 519-271-0480 Supervisor: : Tonya David Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (6:30am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 49 Rebecca Street, Stratford, N5A 3P6 Phone Number: 519-271-0480 Supervisor: Tonya David Age Range and Hours of Operation: 4 to 12 years (6:30am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm)

Location: 25 Beckview Dr, Kitchener, N2R 0N7 Phone Number: 226-319-0760 Supervisor: Ksenija Rac Age Range and Hours of Operation: 3 months to 6 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

Location: 450 Bernay Drive, Waterloo, N2T 3A3 Phone Number: 519-885-5722 Supervisor: Brooke Groothuis Age Range and Hours of Operation: 18 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) - Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

Location: 335 Saginaw Parkway, Cambridge, N1T 1R6 Phone Number: 519-622-3266 Supervisor: Carrie-Ann Delane Age Range and Hours of Operation: 18 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) - Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

Location: 685 Elgin Street, Cambridge, N1R 7W6 Phone Number: 519-624-1303 Supervisor: Melissa Dolson Age Range and Hours of Operation: 18 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) - Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

Location: 455 University Avenue, Kitchener, N2N 3B9 Phone Number: 519-571-0050 Supervisor: Janice Duncan Age Range and Hours of Operation: 3 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm)

Location: 177 Bismark Drive, Cambridge, N1S 4Y2 Phone Number: 519-622-3785 Supervisor: Janice F. Age Range and Hours of Operation: 18 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am – Bell Time; Bell Time – 6:00pm) Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

Location: 485 Thorndale Drive, Waterloo, N2T 1W5 Phone Number: 519-747-5701 Supervisor: Cynthia Singh Age Range and Hours of Operation: 18 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am – Bell Time; Bell Time – 6:00pm) Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

Location: 245 Activa Avenue, Kitchener, N2E 3Y4 Phone Number: 519-576-8277 Supervisor: Lisa S. Age Range and Hours of Operation: 2.5 to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am – Bell Time; Bell Time – 6:00pm) Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

Location: 760 Commonwealth Drive, Kitchener, N2E 4K7 Phone Number: 519-568-7521 Supervisor: Laura M. Age Range and Hours of Operation: 18 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am – Bell Time; Bell Time – 6:00pm) Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

Location: 71 Apple Ridge Drive, Kitchener, N2P 2S2 Phone Number: 519-748-4356 Supervisor: Amy Paquette Age Range and Hours of Operation: 18 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am – Bell Time; Bell Time – 6:00pm) Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

Location: 55 Hilltop Drive, Ayr, N0B 1E0 Phone Number: 519-741-8585 X3420 Supervisor: Taylor Wiles Age Range and Hours of Operation: 3 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) - Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

Location: 415 Caryndale Drive, Kitchener, N2R 1J7 Phone Number: 519-895-1190 Supervisor: Jessica B. Age Range and Hours of Operation: 18 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) - Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

Location: 255 Thomas Slee Drive, Kitchener, N2P 0B8 Phone Number: 519-893-1717 Supervisor: Emma Metcalfe Age Range and Hours of Operation: 3 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am - Bell Time; Bell Time - 6:00pm) - Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

Location: 560 Pioneer Drive, Kitchener, N2P 1P2 Phone Number: 519-895-0060 Supervisor: Santana Miller Age Range and Hours of Operation: 18 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am – Bell Time; Bell Time – 6:00pm) Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

Location: 225 Starlight Avenue, Breslau, N0B 1M0 Phone Number: 226-812-0229 Supervisor: Lynda Grammenos Age Range and Hours of Operation: 3 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am – Bell Time; Bell Time – 6:00pm) Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

Location: 30 Faial Road, Cambridge, N1R 7C3 Phone Number: 519-267-9199 Supervisor: Nichole MacDonald Age Range and Hours of Operation: 3 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am – Bell Time; Bell Time – 6:00pm) Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

Location: 710 Myers Road, Cambridge, N1P 0A8 Phone Number: 519-622-2536 Supervisor: Barb Hewitson Age Range and Hours of Operation: 18 months to 4 years (7:00am - 6:00pm) 4 to 12 years (7:00am – Bell Time; Bell Time – 6:00pm) Full day programs are available on PA Days and School Breaks

View Report Cards Contact our Aquatic Team.

View Report Cards Contact our Aquatic Team.

View Report Cards Contact our Aquatic Team.

View Report Cards Contact our Aquatic Team

View Report Cards Contact our Aquatic Team.

As the first level of our YMCA Preschool Swim Lesson program, Splashers is a great way to introduce babies ages 3 to 18 months to the water. Parents get in on the fun by participating with their children. At this early stage, children are still learning a lot about their environment. The goal of splashers is to make children and parents comfortable in the water together, and (of course) to learn to splash with arms and legs! Splashers is led by a certified swim instructor who knows how to create a fun, stimulating environment for babies to get their splash on.

The second level of our YMCA Preschool Swim Lesson program, Bubblers is for children ages 18 months to 3 years. We work with you to introduce your child to new movements in the water, including holding the wall, kicking feet, and blowing bubbles. Parents get in on the fun by participating with their children. Bubblers is led by a certified swim instructor who knows how to create a fun, stimulating environment for you and your little one, encouraging bonding and skill development in the water.

Swimmer is for children ages 6 to 12 who have completed Dolphin or have equivalent skills. In this class, kids will learn front and back crawl, and how to tread water. The last level in our national YMCA Learn to Swim program, Swimmer teaches children how to stay safe in the water and to develop their swimming skills. Children at this level will have achieved a solid foundation of swimming skills and be able to front swim for a distance of 25 metres. Swimmer is taught in small groups of six to eight children by a certified swim instructor who will inspire your child to reach their potential in the water.

An introductory level for beginner swimmers ages 6 to 12, Otter will teach your child the basics of pool safety, going underwater, and gliding on their front, back and side. The first of four levels in our national YMCA Learn to Swim program, Otter teaches your child how to stay safe in the water and to develop their swimming skills. During these classes, your child will also select from an optional list of skills to learn during the session. Otter is taught in small groups of six to eight children by a certified swim instructor who encourages your child to actively participate in their own learning.

Dolphin is for children ages 6 to 12 who have completed Seal or who demonstrate an equivalent skill set. Your child will be introduced to swimming on their front, back, and underwater.The third of four levels in our national YMCA Learn to Swim program, Dolphin teaches kids how to stay safe in the water and to develop their swimming skills. During these classes, your child will also select from an optional list of skills to learn during the session. Dolphin is taught in small groups of six to eight children by a certified swim instructor who will be cheering your child on as they complete their first full swim strokes!

Seal is for children ages 6 to 12 who have completed Otter or who have equivalent skills. In this level they will further develop the skills of gliding, kicking, and submerging. The second of four levels in our national YMCA Learn to Swim program, Seal teaches your child how to stay safe in the water and to develop their swimming skills. During these classes, children will also select from an optional list of skills to learn during the session. Seal is taught in small groups of six to eight children by a certified swim instructor who will encourage the children to build their confidence in the water.

Elevate your game with our Small Group Sports Conditioning Training! This targeted training session focuses on enhancing performance for your chosen sport, combining drills and exercises tailored to improve agility, strength, and endurance. In a motivating small group setting, you'll work on sport-specific skills and conditioning strategies, guided by a specialized trainer. Perfect for athletes of all levels aiming to boost their performance and gain a competitive edge. Dates: September 19 – November 7, 2024. Times: Thursdays, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Instructor: Aladin Location: A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA Cost: Members: $118.96 +HST, Non-Members: $140 +HST For more information, send us an email. Register at the membership desk.

Strengthen and support your lower back with our Small Group Low-back Base Training! This specialized session focuses on exercises designed to enhance lumbar stability, improve posture, and alleviate discomfort. In a supportive group setting, you'll engage in targeted workouts that strengthen core muscles, improve flexibility, and promote proper alignment. Led by a specialized trainer, each session combines tailored exercises with personalized guidance, ensuring you build a resilient back while benefiting from the camaraderie and motivation of a small group. Ideal for anyone looking to improve lower back health and prevent future issues. Dates: September 20 – November 8, 2024. Times: Fridays, 6:45 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Instructor: Meagan Location: Stork Family YMCA Cost: Members: $118.96 +HST, Non-Members: $140 +HST For more information, send us an email. Register at the membership desk.

Build a solid fitness base with Strength Training Foundations: A Four-Part Series. This comprehensive program introduces key strength training principles, focusing on proper form, essential exercises, and gradual progression. Over four sessions, you'll learn foundational techniques, develop muscle strength, and gain confidence in your workout routine. Perfect for beginners or anyone looking to refresh their strength training skills, this series provides a structured path to achieving long-lasting fitness results. Dates: October 21 – November 11, 2024. Times: Mondays, 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Instructor: Jayne Location: A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA Cost: members $59.48+HST, non-members $70+HST For more information, send us an email. Register at the membership desk.

Get fit fast with our HIIT Small Group Training! This high-energy session features intense, short bursts of exercise with brief rest periods, targeting cardio, strength, and agility. With personalized coaching and a supportive group environment, you'll challenge your limits and achieve results efficiently. Perfect for all fitness levels, our HIIT sessions offer a fun, effective workout that keeps you motivated and on track. Dates: September 18 – November 6, 2024. Times: Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Instructor: Emmanuel Location: A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA Cost: Members: $118.96 +HST, Non-Members: $140 +HST For more information, send us an email. Register at the membership desk.

Step back in time with our Strength Training Circuit, where each week features a unique theme inspired by different historical eras. From the rugged workouts of the Ancient Greeks to the sleek, modern routines of the 21st century, each session offers a fresh, engaging experience. With expert guidance and a supportive environment, you'll strengthen your body while enjoying a touch of history with your training. Dates: September 17 – November 5, 2024. Times: Tuesdays, 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Instructor: Aladin Location: Stork Family YMCA Cost: Members: $118.96 +HST, Non-Members: $140 +HST For more information, send us an email. Register at the membership desk.

Build strength, balance, and confidence with our Older Adult Strength Training Foundations program. This tailored class focuses on safe, effective exercises designed to enhance muscle strength, improve mobility, and support overall wellness. With expert guidance and a supportive environment, you'll strengthen your body while enjoying the benefits of increased stability and vitality. Ideal for maintaining independence and enhancing quality of life. Dates: September 18 – November 6, 2024. Times: Wednesdays, 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Instructor: Caelan Location: Stork Family YMCA Cost: Members: $118.96 +HST, Non-Members: $140 +HST For more information, send us an email. Register at the membership desk.

Whether you're looking to complete your first triathlon or preparing for a new season, this group training session is for you. You'll have the opportunity to improve your swim, bike, and run techniques, build endurance, and practice transitioning between sports. To join this Triathlon Group, there is a requirement of being able to swim 100 meters and run 2km without stopping. Cost: Members: $115+ HST Non-Member: $150+ HST *Pre-registration is required *Registration can be completed through your member portal or at the membership desk Register at the membership desk or online through your member portal. For more information, email Keristen.

Capacity: 100 Our bright, comfortable, and spacious dining hall overlooks beautiful Paradise Lake. The hall seats up to 100 people for meals, meetings and programming. Meals Delicious and nutritious meals are prepared in our modern kitchen facilities. Dietary requirements (gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian, vegan, halal) can be accommodated with advance notice. In true camp style, meals are served either family style or buffet. Coffee, tea, water and fruit juices are available and replenished throughout the day. Snacks are also provided while you work and during predetermined break times. Snacks may include fruit plate, muffins, cinnamon buns, vegetable plate, cheese and crackers, cookies, etc. There is also the option to bring in your own (nut-free) food or have your group bring a bagged lunch during day visits.

Capacity: 56 This building is aptly named as it is built into the north side of a hill. Surrounded by earth, it employs a natural form of climate control that keeps the building cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. The Burrows has a large common area where visitors enjoy the view of a marsh rich with wildlife, while being warmed by the heat of a masonry fireplace. The Burrows has overnight accommodation for up to 40 people in eight rooms. The common area can be used as a meeting space or a programming alternative. The Burrows is equipped with composting toilets, sinks, and showers within the building. View the floor plan.

Capacity: 50 Stay in a cabin built of straw. This unique method of building is a proven and practical alternative to more conventional building methods. Among the interesting and environmental features in these units are solar power for lights and radiant in-floor heating. Each of our five cabins sleeps 10 and has its own composting toilet in the cabin.

Capacity: 40 This accommodation area has two identical double cabins with bunk beds in three separate, yet adjoining rooms. These cabins are winterized and finished in bright knotty pine. Washrooms with flush toilets, sinks, and showers are immediately adjacent to the cabins. View the floor plan.

Capacity: 60 This state-of-the-art building features greenhouse walls that fill the building with passive solar heat in winter. An innovative ventilation design draws cooler air from the earth to cool the building in summer. The great room in the solarium is excellent for meetings and other indoor activities. Your group will enjoy the scenery — both outdoors and indoors — as you are right beside the lush greenery of the living machine.

Capacity: 30 This gorgeous, bright and sunny building features wall to wall windows and rustic, pine finishes. It features a soapstone radiant heat fireplace to keep you cozy on cold days. It is equipped with two bathrooms with composting toilets.

Being a Personal Trainer and Fitness Instructor at the Y provides exciting opportunities to work with members with a wide variety of needs and goals. As a fitness professional, I have gained knowledge and experience in a number of different modalities, but nothing is better education than working with a great team and amazing members here at the YMCA! Read Mary's Full Bio Email Mary

Using the basic functional movement patterns, I can help you start and maintain your physical ability to perform movements and make it fun as well along the way. I will help you create a training program that caters to your goals, abilities, and interests and I am prepared to work around any limitations you might have to create the most effective fitness plan. My goal is to keep you motivated, and results will be sure to follow. Read Aladin's Full Bio Email Aladin

Athletics and fitness have always been a large part of my life! I am excited to share my knowledge and experience with others. Whether you are new to exercise, wanting a reboot of your current exercise routine, an athlete wanting sport specific training or are someone facing health or wellness challenges, I can help support you in meeting your fitness and nutrition goals in a safe and effective manner. I have a passion for making meaningful connections with people and introducing them to all the Y has to offer! Read Beth's Full Bio Email Beth

Getting started or knowing where to start can often be the hardest part. If you are looking to make a change; whether it be to your overall fitness, specific targeted goals, performance ability, diet, or just looking to have more spring in your step, let’s have a conversation! Read Jena's Full Bio Email Jena

Fitness has been a massive part of my life as I danced for 16 years with various dance styles, had a passion for swimming, and am now doing a kinesiology degree based on movement and fitness. Throughout these years of experience, I’ve learned methods to succeed in reaching goals and adapting based on injuries, low back pain, and other barriers. I have extensive knowledge of low back pain, knee injuries, mobility issues and much more, as well as ways to help improve and manage them. Read Megan's Full Bio Email Meagan

I have been passionate about fitness since high school, when I started working out in the weight room and gained an interest in learning about the most effective ways of training to see results. Since then, I have gained experience in many forms of exercise including bodyweight fitness, weight training, functional movement training, and group fitness. Whether you are new to the gym or have years of experience, I am confident that I can help you take the right steps towards achieving your goal. Read Noel's Full Bio Email Noel

I was once 250 lbs with no energy and no idea how to eat properly. I have since learned through educational courses and certifications how it all fits together, the importance of both exercise and nutrition, and how to maximize what I do on a daily basis to maintain what I have accomplished. I recently turned 40 and became pregnant again with a beautiful little girl, however, along with this came an extra 50 lbs of body weight. Read Brenda's Full Bio Email Brenda

Currently, I am a Certified Personal Trainer through CSEP, and I am studying Kinesiology at the University of Waterloo. This has equipped me with knowledge and skills in exercise prescription and programming for a wide range of individuals. I have a broad understanding of how to implement different types of training into a tailored fitness program to help you achieve your short- and long-term goals. Read Caelan's Full Bio Email Caelan

I am passionate about fitness, everyone’s fitness. Whether you are young and just starting a lifelong fitness regime, mid-life and trying to get into shape or a senior striving to stay mobile and active, I will guide you on your path. Experienced and certified in many fitness styles including AquaFit, Yoga, Stabilizing Ball, Resistance Training, Body Sculpting, and Aerobics, I can design a program that will suit anyone’s fitness level and interest. Read Heike's Full Bio Email Heike

Stork Family YMCA (Waterloo) Mondays, 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. January 6 – March 3, 2025 *No class Monday, February 17, 2025. Guelph YMCA-YWCA Fridays, 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. January 17 – February 28, 2025 A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA (Kitchener) Wednesdays, 7:15 – 8:30 p.m. January 8 – March 5, 2025

Stork Family YMCA (Waterloo) Mondays, 4:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. January 6 – March 3, 2025 *No class Monday February 17 Guelph YMCA-YWCA Sundays, 2:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. January 19 – March 2, 2025 A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA (Kitchener) Saturdays 12:30 – 3:00 p.m. January 11 – March 8, 2025 *Exam 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. Saturday March 8, 2025.

Guelph YMCA-YWCA Sundays, 2:30 – 6:30 p.m. January 19 – March 2 A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA (Kitchener) Monday - Friday, 2:00 – 7:00 p.m March 10 – 14, 2025 *March Break (5-day crash course) Stork Family YMCA (Waterloo) Mondays, 4:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. January 6 – March 3, 2025 *No class Monday, February 17, 2025.

Stork Family YMCA Monday – Thursday, 12:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Friday, 12:00 - 8:00 p.m. March 10 – 14, 2025. Stork Family YMCA Friday 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. and Saturday/Sunday 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Friday December 27 – Sunday January 5, 2025 *2 Weekend Course Guelph YMCA-YWCA Sundays, 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. January 12 – March 30, 2025 *No class Sunday, March 9, 2025.

Guelph YMCA-YWCA Sunday 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. January 5, 2025 A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. January 4, 2025 A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. March 15, 2025

Guelph YMCA-YWCA Friday 4:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., Saturday 8:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. January 17 – January 18, 2025 Stork Family YMCA (Waterloo) Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. January 25 – January 26, 2025 A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. March 8 – March 9, 2025 Guelph YMCA-YWCA Friday 4:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., Saturday 8:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. March 14 – March 15, 2025

Guelph YMCA-YWCA Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. February 22, 2025 Stork Family YMCA (Waterloo) Sunday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. January 26, 2025 A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA Sunday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. March 9, 2025

No courses scheduled — check back soon!

Stratford YMCA Friday 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. September 20 – September 22, 2024 Stratford YMCA Friday 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. December 6 – December 8, 2024

Stratford YMCA Friday 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. November 15 – November 17, 2024

Stratford YMCA Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. November 23, 2024

Stratford YMCA Saturday and Sunday, 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. September 28 – September 29, 2024

Stratford YMCA Friday 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. November 8 – November 10, 2024

Stratford YMCA Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. October 25, 2024

Stratford YMCA (Virtual Course Delivery) Wednesday, 4:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. September 4, 2024

A highlight of our LIT program at Camp Ki-Wa-Y and Camp Waabanaki is working towards obtaining Lifesaving Society certifications in Emergency First Aid, Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross. At the end of the month, you will be take part in an exam by a certified examiner for both Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross. Only LITs who demonstrate skill progression will have the opportunity to take the certification exam. Bronze Medallion Bronze Medallion challenges LITs both mentally and physically. Judgment, knowledge, skill, and fitness – the four components of water rescue – form the basis of Bronze Medallion training. LITs acquire the assessment and problem-solving skills needed to make good decisions in, on, and around the water. Bronze Medallion is a prerequisite for assistant lifeguard training in Bronze Cross.  Bronze Cross The course begins the transition from lifesaving to lifeguarding and prepares candidates for responsibilities as assistant lifeguards. Candidates strengthen and expand their lifesaving skills and begin to apply the principles and techniques of active surveillance in aquatic facilities. Bronze Cross is a prerequisite for advanced training in the Society’s National Lifeguard and leadership certification programs.

As an LIT, you’re still transitioning from camper to leader. While you’re not directly responsible for leading campers, your role as a role model begins here. LITs focus on building leadership foundations, mastering camp skills, and developing personal responsibility.    Accountability:  LITs are held to higher standards of behavior and responsibility. You’re now a role model for younger campers and expected to lead by example.    Ownership of Actions:  Taking responsibility for your decisions becomes a core expectation. Whether leading a group activity or making daily choices, your actions impact others in meaningful ways.  Skill Mastery: Transition from learning camp activities to mastering them, with the goal of one day teaching these skills as a CIT or staff member.  Team Leadership: Collaboration and teamwork are central to the LIT experience. Plan activities, solve problems, and support fellow LITs in group settings.  Mentorship (Observation): Begin to observe counselors in action, learning leadership styles and how camp staff manage groups and activities.   

While the LIT program is fun and rewarding, it comes with high expectations. Camp staff will challenge you to:  Put Your Best Effort Forward: Fully engage in activities, sessions, and reflections. Every moment is an opportunity for growth.  Be a Role Model: Younger campers look up to you. Show kindness, patience, and respect in every interaction.  Follow the Rules: Help maintain a safe and inclusive environment by adhering to camp rules.  Take Initiative: Step up during activities, lead team-building exercises, and embrace new challenges. 

Direct Leadership: CITs actively shadow counselors and assist with leading campers. You’re a key part of the team, providing mentorship and guidance to younger campers.  Hands-On Experience:  You’ll apply the skills and knowledge gained during the LIT program to real-world camp situations.  Increased Responsibility: CITs help manage groups, solve conflicts, and ensure activities run smoothly.   Skill Application:  As a CIT, you’ll transition from mastering camp skills to teaching them to campers.  Mentorship (Active):  CITs take an active role in mentoring younger campers, helping them navigate their own camp experience. 

CITs are seen as part of the camp leadership team and are held to a higher standard of responsibility and maturity:  Demonstrate Leadership: Be proactive in supporting campers, leading activities, and setting a positive example.  Act Responsibly: CITs are trusted to handle responsibilities independently and respectfully.  Mentor Campers: Provide guidance, encouragement, and support to younger campers.  Collaborate with Staff: Work closely with counselors and other staff members to ensure camp activities are safe, inclusive, and fun.  Take Initiative: Step into leadership roles, problem-solve, and assist with planning and executing camp programs. 

450 Avenue Rd., Cambridge, ON NIR 5S4 Level 1 (Mastering Camp Skills): June 30 – July 11, 2025 Level 2 (Learning How to Instruct): July 14 – 25, 2025 Level 3 (Putting Skills into Practice): July 28 – August 8, 2025 Level 1 (Mastering Camp Skills): August 11 – 22, 2025

2001 Kressler Rd., Waterloo, ON N2J 3Z4 Level 1 (Mastering Camp Skills): June 30 – July 11, 2025 July 14 – 25, 2025 August 11 – 22, 2025 Level 2 (Learning How to Instruct): July 14 – 25, 2025 July 28 – August 8, 2025 Level 3 (Putting Skills into Practice): July 28 – August 8, 2025

5422 Jones Base Line, Guelph, ON N1H 6J1 Level 1 (Mastering Camp Skills): June 30 – July 11, 2025 August 11 – 22, 2025 Level 2 (Learning How to Instruct): July 14 – 25, 2025 Level 3 (Putting Skills into Practice): July 28 – August 8, 2025