Looking forward to an exciting 2014

January is over, and 2014 is in full swing. Looking back at 2013, we have come a long way in building healthy

communities. It is exciting to see the impact we continue to make through all of our programs and services, and looking forward to 2014, I know we will continue to open doors, inspire youth, and be strong. These three pillars of our five year strategic plan, My Y For Good, continue to guide us into year two.

Here are some highlights of my priorities for the year ahead:

• My Y Opens Doors: CATCH, A ‘Coordinated Approach to Child Health,’ will continue to provide resources to schools within the Simcoe County District School Board. Bringing families, schools and our community together to ensure our children are growing up in a healthy, active environment will help them reach their full potential.
• My Y Inspires Youth: During the first year of our strategic plan, we worked hard to engage the youth voice. Continuing into year two, I look forward to the creation of the Youth Board Advisory Council. Consisting of youth ages 18-29, the Council will ensure the youth voice impacts the decisions of the Board, moving our association forward.
• My Y is strong: We will continue to ensure our SAM standards are met and exceeded association wide. With a focus on customer service, we will continue to listen to member and participant feedback to ensure quality programs are being offered.

My Y continues to finalize the direction of our renewal strategy for the YMCA in Barrie. More than a health and fitness centre, the opportunity to develop a unique ‘Centre of Community’ continues to progress forward. Throughout 2014, the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka will continue to work to lead the community as experts in health, for all members of the community.