Y Story – The Little Wins That Matter Most
When we talk about impact at the YMCA, we often think of the big milestones — personal records broken, lives changed, or goals achieved. But often, it’s the smaller, everyday victories that speak the loudest. Members Jake and Kyra’s story is one of those.
Jake and Kyra are a young married couple who have faced many of the challenges that come with living as adults with disabilities — from limited services to barriers in employment and housing. After aging out of school-based supports, they were left navigating adulthood with few resources and few spaces where they truly felt included.
They were searching for a place to stay active, meet people, and feel like they belonged. They found that place at the YMCA.
Thanks to support from the Y’s Strong Communities Campaign, Jake and Kyra received memberships that opened the doors to fitness, connection, and community. They quickly became familiar faces at the Regional Y — swimming, working out, and spending time chatting with staff and members. What began as a way to stay busy became something much more meaningful: a place where they felt seen, accepted, and valued.
As Jake and Kyra worked toward their long-term goal of living independently and finding meaningful employment, the YMCA became a stepping stone in that journey. With encouragement from Y staff — and a shared belief in their potential — they began volunteering.
With the guidance of staff like our volunteer coordinator Lola, Kyra started volunteering in child care twice a week, and Jake began supporting administrative tasks, with hopes of helping in recreation or facilities next. Their dream is to one day become YMCA employees.
To staff, they may be volunteers. But to Jake and Kyra, these roles mean everything.
Volunteering gives them structure, confidence, and a powerful sense of purpose. They don’t just show up — they take these responsibilities seriously. They are proud of what they do and grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a place that has given them so much.
At the Y’s recent volunteer appreciation event, Kyra bravely got up to share her story and thank the team for believing in her. It was a moving moment — a reminder of why we do what we do.
And just recently, Jake and Kyra celebrated a huge milestone: they were accepted into a pilot housing program through L’Arche, a community partnership organization supporting adults with disabilities. A few weeks ago, they officially moved into their very first home — a new townhouse just down the street from the Y.
Their favourite part? They’re now within walking distance and can come and go whenever they please.
For Jake and Kyra, the YMCA isn’t just a place to volunteer. It’s a place where they feel a deep sense of belonging. A place built on inclusion, where they are treated with honesty, supported with care, and encouraged to take responsibility and grow. It’s a place where their contributions are not only welcomed — they’re celebrated.
Their journey is a powerful reminder of what the YMCA stands for. It’s not just about programs and facilities. It’s about creating a community where everyone — regardless of age, background, or ability — has the chance to be part of something bigger.
These are the little wins that matter most.
And these are the stories that define who we are.