It’s National Volunteer week and on behalf of the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, I would like to thank all of our volunteers who donate their time and talents to the YMCA everyday – helping us build healthy communities through our many programs and services.
We’re so proud of our community!
In 2017, 714 individuals volunteered at the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka providing 28,777 hours of service! We are very proud of and grateful to all our Y volunteers. Their vision, passion and dedication have made a significant contribution to the development of stronger and healthier communities across Simcoe County, Muskoka and Parry Sound. Our volunteers come from all ages and stages of life including students looking to gain work experience and retirees who have volunteered for over 30 years.
Approximately 80 per cent of our volunteers provide services in the areas of fitness and aquatics. People are often surprised to learn that Y volunteers are as highly trained in these areas as their staff counterparts. In order to support growth in mind, body and spirit, the Y ensures that training is extended to volunteers so they are able to properly support our members and gain valuable experiences.
Beyond fitness, volunteers from many other facets of the Y also donate their time in the areas of child care, camp, employment services, immigrant services, operations, child and youth programs, philanthropy and on our board of directors.
Celebrating all of our volunteers!
On Sunday, June 10th all YMCA volunteers are invited to the second annual Volunteer Appreciation Day at YMCA Geneva Park. Volunteers from across the association will get together to meet one another, celebrate, and enjoy the day with their families. The event is an opportunity for the YMCA to say thank you to all of its incredible volunteers who give their time and talent to enrich the health of our greater community.
Get Involved!
National Volunteer Week is a great time to get involved and give back to your community. Volunteer opportunities at the YMCA are available for anyone 12 years of age and older. Here are a few ways you can take an active role at the Y and in your community:
- Get involved with a mentoring or tutoring program through the YMCA’s Immigrant, Literacy, Youth or Employment services
- Teach a fitness class or ask the Y staff about others ways to get involved with a program of interest
- Help with Y fundraising efforts to ensure those in need can access essential programs and services to reach their full potential
- Invite friends and neighbours to join you in contributing to a stronger community
Visit our website to see if there is an opportunity that excites you!
Rob Armstrong is President and CEO of the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka; focused on investing in communities, ensuring all people have access to the Y and implementing programs that are helping thousands of youth and families to learn and thrive. Prior to joining the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka in 2011, Rob held senior leadership positions at the YMCA of Edmonton, YMCA of Owen Sound, YMCA of Cambridge and most recently YMCA Ontario. Rob holds an Honours degree in Physical and Health Education from Queen’s University and has since augmented his education with advanced courses from the Harvard Business School of Entrepreneurship, Ivy School of Business and Queen’s University Executive Education Program.
Since coming to Simcoe/Muskoka, Rob has taken an active leadership role in the Child, Youth and Family Services Coalition of Simcoe County and Barrie’s Pathways to end homelessness. He served on a number of boards including local Community Foundations, Affordable Housing, Parks and Recreation Ontario and the Minister of Health Promotions Health Advisory Committee.