The Power of Giving Back: One Paycheque at a Time
For many YMCA employees, giving back is part of what they do every day. For Shawna, a member of our Newcomer & Community Connections team, it also means choosing to support the YMCA through payroll giving.
"It's manageable," she says. "There are many wonderful charities and causes that deserve our support, so it can be a challenge to choose where to give. Giving through payroll allows me to contribute in a way that fits my budget, and a little bit goes a long way."
Having participated in YMCA programs as a child in Winnipeg and Dartmouth, and later as an adult in Ottawa, the YMCA has been a constant throughout her life.
"The YMCA has a long history of connecting people in the community," she reflects. "No matter where I was, everyone was treated with respect and kindness."
After spending nearly three decades working as a graphic designer supporting charities and fundraising initiatives, she understands firsthand how important consistent donor support is. That's why becoming a payroll donor felt like the natural choice.
"Institutional and individual donor support is critical to the YMCA," she explains. "As an individual donor, I'm helping demonstrate to funders that our work matters. Giving through my pay was the most obvious way for me to contribute."
Working with newcomers has only strengthened that belief. Every day, she sees the YMCA's mission come to life through acceptance, inclusion, and genuine human connection.
"There is something at the YMCA for every age, culture, gender, and social issue," she says. "But most importantly, it's about accessibility. Access to learning, childcare, technology, affordable programs, and opportunities to connect can make an incredible difference in someone's life."
One moment from her English class stands out above all others.
A student recently shared the unimaginable journey that brought them to Canada, speaking about surviving violence, recovering from serious injuries, and learning English as part of rebuilding their life.
"It takes incredible courage to tell a story like that," she says. "Everyone in the room responded with compassion and support. We acknowledged the trauma, and we let them know they belonged."
For her, that moment captured what makes the YMCA so special.
"You can receive medical care, but without purpose, dignity, and people who truly see you, healing isn't complete. Watching our students embrace one another with kindness reminded me that the YMCA is part of that healing journey."
She also credits the leadership around her for creating a workplace built on empathy, trust, and respect, an environment where people are empowered to do meaningful work while continuing to grow professionally.
When asked what makes the YMCA successful, her answer is simple.
"People rally together. It's not the problem that matters; it's the solution."
Whether through teaching, supporting newcomers, or giving a small amount from every paycheque, she believes everyone has a role to play in strengthening the community.
About the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick
The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick is a charity dedicated to building healthy, connected communities where everyone belongs. Through health and wellness, newcomer support, child and youth development, and community programs, we remove barriers, stand against racism and exclusion, and ensure people of all backgrounds have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Help Us Tell More Stories
 If you’re reading this and someone from our YMCA community comes to mind whose story deserves to be told, we’d love to hear from you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team and share their story so we can continue highlighting the voices, moments, and impact that make our YMCA so special.