Why The Y

Nearly a decade ago, I was a single mother, recently graduated from university, without a job and relying on family support to get by. When I was finally offered a full-time, entry-level position at a marketing firm, I was thrilled, yet overwhelmed.

For one Sarnia-Lambton mom, the YMCA has become so much more than a fitness centre; it’s been a place of growth, confidence, and community.

For many, the Y is much more than a gym or a place to swim—it’s a hub of connection, support, and belonging. For generations, the Y has been where individuals come to improve their health, learn new skills, and build lasting relationships. But what truly sets the Y apart is its remarkable ability to create a sense of community that impacts lives far beyond its walls.

Hi, I’m Euna! I’ve been a Y member since 2019, and I’m a mom to three kids. My kids have always loved the programs here, and one day, while they were in their activities, I saw my neighbour Christina. We sat together, chatted, and caught up - it was such a nice surprise!

For the past ten years, Tara has been an educator with YMCA. It was her very first job after graduating from college, and she couldn't have asked for a better start to her career. Working with children has always been her passion, and at the Y, she found the perfect place to nurture that passion. Watching the children learn and grow has been incredibly rewarding for her.

Shauna’s journey at the YMCA began with the simple need of a mom - childminding. Her three boys were her world, and finding a place where they could thrive while she pursued her wellness goals felt like a blessing. What started as a convenient solution quickly blossomed into a deeper connection with the Y community.

Many years ago, I had the privilege of being sponsored to spend two weeks in Honey Harbour at Camp Queen Elizabeth. For our family, this was beyond our financial scope.

Beginnings in TigrayI was born in Tigray, in the horn of Africa. It’s a region that has never been colonized or conquered. Despite this, war has been a part of this region for hundreds of years off and on – which is the reason my family and I left. To this day, I suffer from PTSD from the things I witnessed and experienced as a small child.

Meet Lina, a Fitness Instructor at Stoney Creek Community Centre, YMCA & Library!