YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick Expanding Programming for Newcomers

Federal government investment will support infrastructure upgrades at the new Glenn Carpenter Outdoor Education Centre

November 1, 2024 · Saint John, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Communities flourish when local businesses and organizations have the infrastructure and resources to create memorable experiences for visitors and residents. The Government of Canada is investing to support improvements to a cherished outdoor oasis just minutes from Saint John’s city centre.

Today, Wayne Long, Member of Parliament for Saint John – Rothesay, announced an investment of $484,643 through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) for the YMCA of Greater Saint John Inc., now known as the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.

The funding will support green energy efficiency enhancements at the new Glenn Carpenter Outdoor Education Centre, scheduled to open in early 2025. A new multi-purpose building will enable year-round access to inclusive programming and support the growth of the YMCA’s newcomer services to help with integration into the community and workforce. Project upgrades include the installation of insulated concrete building forms, an HVAC system, a metal roof and LED lighting.

This announcement highlights how the Government of Canada is contributing to Atlantic Canada’s momentum by strengthening our communities, creating new opportunities, and setting the stage for a strong, sustainable future.

Quotes

“How do we make the Saint John YMCA a better, more modern place for all? Your federal government, through ACOA, invests – that’s how.”

  • The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

“This new building at the Glenn Carpenter Outdoor Education Centre highlights our commitment to sustainability and community integration. By enhancing green efficiency and expanding newcomer services, we are creating a welcoming space for families to thrive.”

  • Wayne Long, Member of Parliament for Saint John–Rothesay

 

“We are grateful to ACOA for this transformative investment in the Glenn Carpenter Outdoor Education Centre. These enhancements bring us closer to creating a sustainable, year-round space where people of all ages can gather, learn, and grow together. This support helps expand our programs, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive community for newcomers, families, and youth across Southwestern New Brunswick.”

  • Shilo Boucher, President & CEO, YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick

Quick facts

  • The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick provides vital services such as health, fitness and recreation, child care, camping, outdoor education, newcomer services, employment, education, leadership development and volunteer opportunities, by connecting people to each other and life-building opportunities.
  • For over two decades, the existing Glenn Carpenter Centre has been a special place for kids to connect with nature, discover their potential, and create lifelong memories. Currently, the facility operates primarily during the summer months.
  • The addition of a new multi‐purpose building, and new program elements will enable year‐round access, providing ongoing support and opportunities for youth and families.
  • The Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) supports projects that build the economies of communities in Atlantic Canada. Through the ICF, ACOA works with communities to find opportunities for growth.

Associated links

Contacts

Connor Burton

Press Secretary

Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development

and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Emilie Williams

Communications Officer

Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency