YMCA of Greater Saint John celebrates Welcoming Week
Saint John, NB — This September, the YMCA of Greater Saint John is celebrating Welcoming Week by
celebrating inclusivity and fostering understanding of different cultures through a series of public events.
“Our Region’s success depends on ensuring that all residents of Saint John feel welcome here, and we are proud to support all newcomers through the programs and services at our Y,” says Shilo Boucher, President & CEO, YMCA of Greater Saint John. “Today, new Saint Johners are a vital part of our community—bringing fresh perspectives and new ideas, starting businesses, and contributing to the vibrant diversity we all value.”
YMCA of Greater Saint John is hosting the following upcoming events for Welcoming Week:
Community Yoga on September 12: Led by an immigrant yogi, this event will showcase ways for to boost physical health and improve strength, balance and flexibility. This event will be open to the public and hosted at the Irving Oil Field House from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
Learn to Camp at Fundy National Park on September 16 and 17: Newcomers have the opportunity to obtain the knowledge and skills to feel confident planning their first camping adventure and get used to this truly Canadian experience. Participants can stay with the whole family or a group of friends in a tent or an oTENTik for a small fee, and camping gear, breakfast and snacks will be provided. Additionally, transportation options from the Saint John Regional Y are available.
Community Connections Fair on September 21: Newcomers have an opportunity to meet more than 30 organizations, associations and other members of the community at Market Square from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM and learn about community resources available to them.
Welcoming Week is an annual opportunity to recognize and celebrate the people, places and values that help everyone feel welcome and give them a sense of belonging in their local community, no matter where they come from.
“The Y is dedicated to strengthening the foundation of communities. I invite everyone to come together to build communities where everyone has the opportunity to feel a sense of belonging,” said Boucher.
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About YMCA of Greater Saint John
The YMCA of Greater Saint John is a trusted charity that ignites the potential in people, fostering lasting personal and social change. We are committed to providing opportunities for people to shine through a variety of programs and services, including health, fitness and recreation, licensed child care, camps, outdoor education, employment, education, newcomer services, leadership development and volunteer opportunities. With over 19 locations and supporting more than 22,000 people in the Greater Saint John area, the Y is a leading charity that helps everyone shine. For more information, visit www.saintjohny.ca.
About Welcoming Week
Welcoming Week is an annual campaign and celebration to showcase the movement of communities striving to be more welcoming places for all, including immigrants.
About Welcoming International
Welcoming International is an initiative that consists of several programs: the Welcoming International Alliance of peer national networks supporting local actors to advance immigrant inclusion at the community level across the world, local-to-local learning exchanges, and technical assistance to national institutions on welcoming standards and strategies. Learn more at welcominginternational.org.