News

Nine-year-old saves toddler from drowning

A parent’s worst nightmare turned into a happy celebration earlier this month when nine year old, Alexis Edall, rescued a toddler who fell into the pool. Alexis’ mother is extremely proud of her daughter who was quick to act, demonstrating the life-saving skills she had recently learned in a YMCA spring break aquatic seal camp.

Big Jack Gives Back!

Jack Newton presented the YMCA of Okanagan with a cheque for $3,400 to benefit local children and youth who need a helping hand to access Y child care, employment, health, fitness, aquatics and leadership programs. 

Millennials gain competitive edge through YMCA employment programs

Many millennials feel lost when it comes to career planning and entering the work force. The YMCA of Okanagan is investing in this group by offering free youth employment programs to eligible individuals under 30, granting them a competitive advantage in today's labor market.

YMCA job fair ripe with opportunity this July

For those looking to earn an income while making an impact, the YMCA of Okanagan is hosting a job fair Saturday, July 29. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kelowna Family Y located at 375 Hartman Road. With over 14 program and service sites, the YMCA is looking to fill a variety of positions from entry level to management.

YMCA Open to all Wildfire Evacuees

All YMCAs are opening their doors to people impacted by the wildfires burning across the province of BC. The YMCA has 12 locations in Prince George, Kamloops, Victoria, Kelowna and the Lower Mainland.

“We invite evacuees to visit the YMCAs listed below to shower and clean up, rest in a safe space or take part in a drop-in program like basketball, fitness classes or swimming,” says Amanda Alexander, CEO of the YMCA of Northern BC.

Raymond James cares for local families

More underprivileged families in the Okanagan are able to afford access to health facilities, child care and child and youth development programs thanks to the generosity of Raymond James Kelowna. Proceeds from the Raymond James 3rd Annual Christmas in November celebration supported several local charities with over $20,000 being donated to the YMCA’s Strong Kids Campaign.

Canadians need to make physical activity a priority

With only one in five adults getting enough exercise, the bleak consequences of a sedentary lifestyle are catching up to Canadians. Determined to build a healthier community, the YMCA of Okanagan’s new Downtown YMCA provides convenient fitness options for time starved individuals, including lunch-break workouts.

YMCA of Okanagan opens new child care centre in Kelowna

With a shortage of child care spaces available in Kelowna, the YMCA of Okanagan has opened an additional child care facility on the property of Kelowna Secondary School.

This new centre will help ease the struggle of families who’ve been waiting for child care spaces locally.

Lions support local kids

On Wednesday, June 14, the Kelowna-Rutland Lions Club members visited the Kelowna Family YMCA with a big cheque that will help a lot more local children and youth in need. 

The Lions Clubs International and YMCA’s share a core belief – to serve their community. One of the Lions key missions is to support children through scholarships, recreation and mentoring.