iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 19h

When it comes to ending homelessness, we can't go fast enough 🏘️👟 Our Y Housing Services team and friends recently ran in the 2026 Race to End Homelessness, organized by @ottawaalliance.bsky.social. It was so motivating to see our community come together in the name of safe, stable housing for all.

A crowd of runners gathered on a grassy field with tents.

Runners and walkers crossing a finish line under an inflatable arc.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

Walking together in the spirit of #TruthAndReconciliation 🧡 Thank you to the Assembly of Seven Generations (A7G) for guiding us in a tour of downtown Ottawa, sharing stories about the land, its history, and 94 Calls to Action. Thanks to all who joined our Newcomer Information Centre for this tour.

A large group photo of tour participants in front of a building entrance. Many are dressed in orange for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

A tour group walking in downtown Ottawa, toward Chateau Laurier.

The Canadian flag and the Indigenous Survivors' flag above a building entrance

A large group of tour participants around a sheltered booth with an orange tablecloth. Many folks are wearing orange for Truth and Reconciliation.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

On #NDTR, we honour the Indigenous children taken from their families & recognize the lasting impacts of residential schools. Learn about the Y's reconciliation journey this year, including YMCA Canada CEO Peter Dinsdale on BMO’s Indigenous Reconciliation Series podcast: ymca.ca/en/what-we-d...

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

Looking for work? Come meet employers who are hiring in Orléans 🧰 Explore job openings, learn about training programs, and connect with community services at the YMCA Orléans Job Fair on October 15. RSVP: www.ymcaottawa.ca/jobfair-2026 #OttawaJobs #OrleansOttawa #JobFair #YMCA

000

Reposted by YMCA of the National Capital Region

OCASI @ocasi.org · 10/09/2026

Across Ontario, our member agencies do vital work in challenging circumstances. At today’s OCASI East Regional Meeting, members called for stronger collaboration and collective messaging to challenge anti-immigrant narratives and highlight immigrant contributions @ymcaottawa.bsky.social

031

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

A big thank you to Ken White Construction for choosing the YMCA as the partner charity for their Drive for Little Lives 2026 Golf Tournament! ⛳ An incredible $25,036.40 was raised in support of Y Camps — and Ken White Construction generously topped that up to $30,036.40! 💚

Elisha, Sebastien, Ana, Shay, and Katie from the YMCA standing together on a golf course

A golfer swinging a club on a golf course

A reception room full of people mingling and sitting at round tables with black tablecloths

Marianne, Trevor, and Ana from the YMCA alongside Gillian, Taylor, and Dave from Ken White Construction holding a large cheque to the YMCA. They are standing at the YMCA Outdoor Centre entrance sign.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 04/09/2026

Starting Sept 8, we’re renovating underused floors in our Housing Tower (Shenkman Residence) at 180 Argyle Avenue to create transitional housing units for newcomer families. Learn more and sign up for our renovation update newsletter: www.ymcaottawa.ca/reno

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 03/09/2026

YMCA After School Programs are coming to three Ottawa schools this September: Churchill Alternative School (Westboro) — K-6 Katimavik Elementary School (Kanata) — Grades 4-6 Terry Fox Elementary School (Orléans) — Grades 4-8 More details and how to register: www.ymcaottawa.ca/programs-ser...

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

The impact of camp doesn't end when summer does. Children leave with stronger friendships, greater confidence, new skills, and memories they'll carry for years. Every donation helps create experiences that can shape a child's future. Give the gift of camp: www.ymcaottawa.ca/gift-of-camp

010

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

Thank you for showing our community just how exciting professional women’s soccer is right here in Ottawa. A big thank you to the event organizers, Toyota, @nsl.ca, and Salt XC for bringing everyone together for such a fun and memorable day!

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

Thanks to everyone who joined us last weekend at the Toyota Soccer Social! ⚽️ The event brought together local youth and families to play soccer, build their skills, and connect with community organizations like the Y. It was inspiring to see families meet @ottrapidfc.bsky.social and mascot Perri!

Two YMCA representatives speaking at a booth to a mother and two children who are wearing Toyota Soccer Social bags

A soccer ball on a grassy field. In the background is a group of kids in blue and orange pinnies, alongside soccer coaches

Ottawa Rapid FC mascot Perri the Peregrine waving with both hands

Women playing soccer on an outdoor field

100

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 26/08/2026

School is almost back and so is the 3PM question: where does your child go until you can pick them up? Starting Sept 1, YMCA After School Programs are running at Churchill Alternative School, Katimavik Elementary School, and Terry Fox Elementary School. Register: www.ymcaottawa.ca/programs-ser...

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 21/08/2026

Join us for a Community BBQ & Field Day with Giant Tiger! Enjoy fun, family-friendly outdoor activities while supporting the YMCA's vital community programs. 📅 Sunday, August 23 ⏰ 10AM to 3PM 📍 Parc Simon (Clarence-Rockland) Cost: FREE to attend, donations encouraged

Text: Community BBQ and Field Day. Sunday, August 23, 10 AM to 3 PM. Parc Simon, Clarence-Rockland. Hosted by Giant Tiger, in support of the YMCA of the National Capital Region. Image: Four kids playing with a volleyball in a grassy park. The Giant Tiger and Y Shine On logos are at the bottom.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

Thank you to event organizers Toyota, @nsl.ca, and Salt XC.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

Join this FREE event to play soccer, grab a bite, meet your community, and connect with local programs and resources. Greet @ottrapidfc.bsky.social and learn more about professional women's soccer in our city. We’ll have a tent at the event, so come chat with us about YMCA programs and services! ❤️

100

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

Thank you to Toyota for the soccer balls! They'll get plenty of use at the Taggart Family YMCA ⚽ Speaking of soccer — catch us at the Toyota Soccer Social this Sunday, August 23 from 12-4PM at the RA Centre! More details below.

Six youth in a gymnasium, holding soccer balls in their hands as they hold their arms up in a Y formation.

Six youth in a gymnasium, holding soccer balls

100

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

Parents often tell us that camp changes more than a child's summer. They return home more confident, more independent, and excited to try new things. Help give another child that opportunity. Give the gift of camp: www.ymcaottawa.ca/gift-of-camp

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 18/08/2026

What an honour to host Team Canada at the Taggart Family YMCA as they trained for Invictus Games 2027! 🍁 This 3-day training camp was organized by Soldier On, a program that supports ill and injured Canadian Armed Forces members and Veterans through physical activity. 🏊🏉🏀🏐

Two Invictus athletes about to high five. They are sitting in wheelchairs in a gymnasium. There are other athletes in the background.

Invictus athletes at the edge of a swimming pool. Two of them are fist bumping.

Invictus athletes quickly rolling their wheelchairs across a gymnasium

Athletes playing sitting volleyball in a gymnasium

100

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 14/08/2026

We've been cooking up a storm in the Power of Trades: Pre-Apprenticeship Culinary Training Program 😋🍇🧀 Considering a culinary career? This no-cost program is the place to start. Get 10 weeks of practical training and 8-12 weeks of a paid work placement. Apply today: www.ymcaottawa.ca/culinary

A culinary program trainee cutting meat on a counter

Five culinary program trainees taking a group selfie. They are all dressed in pink. Some are holding up peace signs.

A group photo of culinary program trainees holding Ottawa Tourism Shine On Academy certificates

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 14/08/2026

These young athletes are hitting it out of the park in the YMCA x Jays Care baseball program! ⚾❤️ "This program has helped me gain more confidence in myself." "Being new to the country, we got to learn about the rules and regulations of the game. Now we want to see a real game in a stadium!"

YMCA program supervisor Robyn taking a group selfie with seven kids in the baseball program. Most of them are holding up peace signs.

A boy holding up a Toronto Blue Jays branded baseball bat, preparing to swing at a teed up rubber ball.

Four children practicing pitching baseballs in a gymnasium

010

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 13/08/2026

YMCA Employment Services hosted a networking event for the Haitian community in Orleans! 🇭🇹 Over 90 job seekers made meaningful connections with 13 employers and community organizations. They explored opportunities across industries and accessed valuable career resources.

A group photo of seven YMCA Employment Services team members

A room full of event attendees exploring booths

A selfie of three people. Others are in the background, visiting event booths.

Three YMCA team members sat behind a table decorated with a Haitian flag. Beside them is a standing banner for YMCA Employment Access Centres.

121

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 10/08/2026

Our YMCA Child Care team is growing! Join us at our upcoming interview day: 📅 Thursday, August 20, 2026 🕤 Time slots between 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM 📍 180 Argyle Avenue (Ottawa) and 265 Centrum Boulevard (Orleans) Register for your interview: forms.cloud.microsoft/r/MTBqCJhj7r #OttawaJobs

Text: We're growing our Child Card team! Now hiring at multiple locations across the National Capital Region. Register for your interview on August 20! Image: An educator wearing a YMCA sweater and lanyard talking to a child in a classroom. The Y Child Care and Shine On logos are along the top.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 07/08/2026

Is your child ready to start preschool this fall? 🎒 The Rideau YMCA Child Care Centre has spaces available for September! Our trained educators help kids learn, connect, and build confidence through play. Interested? Email child.care@ymcaottawa.ca with “Rideau YMCA” in the subject line.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 05/08/2026

At YMCA camp, children aren't just participating in activities — they're finding a community where they are welcomed, encouraged, and celebrated for who they are. That sense of belonging builds confidence that lasts long after summer ends. Give the gift of camp: www.ymcaottawa.ca/gift-of-camp

Text: Every child deserves a place to belong. Help ensure no child sits out summer. Image: A red background layered with a photo of a group of children sitting at a picnic table, a cut-out photo of two boys wearing backpacks, and several doodles of various objects including a guitar, a magnifying glass, binoculars, a basketball, a pencil, stars, a cloud, a backpack, a camera, and a lifebuoy. At the bottom are the Y Shine On and Give the Gift of Camp logos.

010

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 04/08/2026

So many wonderful moments in the Summer Inclusion Program at Churchill Alternative School ❤️ Thank you to OCDSB for entrusting the YMCA to deliver this program. We're grateful to provide inclusive, high-quality care that supports children with ASD and their families.

An educator sitting at a table with a child, painting the name "Evan" in blue paint.

A child and educator playing badminton in a gymnasium

Two children walking along a fence in an outdoor yard

An educator and a child tossing a green ball in a gymnasium

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 23/07/2026

We're excited to share that the YMCA of the National Capital Region has once again been recognized as one of HRD Canada's Best Places to Work for 2026! We're grateful to each team member whose passion, dedication, and teamwork makes our Y a great place to work and a trusted community organization.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

For many children, camp is where they make their first close friend, discover new strengths, and realize they belong. Your gift helps ensure that finances never prevent a child from experiencing the joy and adventure of YMCA camps. Help send a child to camp today: www.ymcaottawa.ca/gift-of-camp

Text: A first friendship. A first campfire. A place where confidence grows. Help ensure no child sits out summer. Image: A red triangle background layered with a polaroid photo of four children building a campfire, a cut-out photo of two girls making playful expressions, a doodle of a backpack, and a doodle of a camera. At the bottom are the Y Shine On and Give the Gift of Camp logos.

010

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

The Power of Trades: Pre-Apprenticeship Culinary Training Program is officially under way! 🍳🔥 Participants are gaining the hands-on skills and certifications to begin a career in the food service industry — at no cost. Register for our upcoming cohort in September 2026: www.ymcaottawa.ca/culinary

A class photo of the Culinary Training program

Three trays of cinnamon buns ready to go in the oven

Culinary training students preparing a tray of croissants in a kitchen

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 20/07/2026

We want to show our appreciation! 🫶 We’re hosting a Member Appreciation Week at the Taggart Family Y this week – July 20 to 26! Join us for a fun week of treats and refreshments, daily prize draws, special activities, and chances to connect.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

We planted a playground garden to celebrate our preschool grads! 🌷🪻🌱 It was a community effort — Families donated plants and seeds, then helped child care staff prepare the garden beds. Finally, the kids joined in to plant the flowers! ❤️

A woman and child planting in a garden bed

A woman helping two children pour a bucket of water on a garden bed

Two children pouring buckets of water onto a flowers in a large pot

A child hugging a child care team member as she plants flowers in a large pot

010

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 10/07/2026

Which birthday party would your child be most excited about? 🥳🎂 🏀 Gym Party 🌊 Pool Party 🛝 Kids Zone Party At the Y, creating a special day for your child couldn't be easier. Book your next party: www.ymcaottawa.ca/birthday-par...

Text on a red triangle background: Which YMCA birthday party will you choose? Gym Party. Run, jump, and play! Pool Party. Make a splash! Kids Zone Party. Climb, slide, and explore! Book your child's next birthday party at ymcaottawa.ca. Images: A photo of five children on a gymnasium floor. They are holding sports equipment. A photo of three girls smiling in a swimming pool, giving thumbs up. A photo of a boy with his arms in the air. There are other children around him on an indoor play structure. Across the design are white doodles of stars, balls, butterflies, a balloon, and flowers.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 08/07/2026

In partnership with Commonwealth Sport Canada, we were proud to host a Sport for Newcomers session at the YMCA Outdoor Centre. ⚽🏀🎾 Thank you to CBC's Omar Dabaghi-Pacheco for featuring this event that aims to reduce barriers to participation. Watch the full story: www.cbc.ca/player/play/...

A group of youth standing in a circle, passing around a volleyball, surrounded by a forested area

CBC Omar Dabaghi-Pacheco interviewing three youth at a picnic table

Youth standing around a grid game on the forest floor

CBC's Omar Dabaghi-Pacheco interviewing Becky Kolberg from Commonwealth Sport Canada. They are sitting on tree stumps in a forest.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 03/07/2026

The cultural mosaic of our community was on full display at our #MulticulturalismDay celebration for #WelcomingOttawaWeek! 🗺️💠 Folks from all different backgrounds gathered to share their heritage, learn from each other, celebrate, and dance together. Our diversity makes our community shine bright!

A crowd of people in various cultural attire posing for a photo with their arms up in a Y shape

The Rhythmic Nertha Foundation Toronto performing a dance number in teal and gold Sri Lankan attire

Two adults and a child at an Uzbekistan cultural booth covered in various cultural objects

A group of women from the Vistula Polish Dance Group posing in colourful traditional attire and flower crowns.

010

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 02/07/2026

Thank you to everyone who joined our 2026 Annual General Meeting 🌟 It was great to come together, celebrate our Y's incredible impact over the past year (serving almost 60,000 people!), and look ahead to the future. ❤️ Our 2025 Annual Report is now live: www.ymcaottawa.ca/about-us/ann...

Caroline Xavier, Chair of the Board of the Directors of the YMCA of the National Capital Region. She is speaking at a lectern.

Trevor McAlmont, President and CEO of the YMCA of the National Capital Region, speaking at a lectern to a seated crowd of people in the Taggart Family YMCA lobby.

Morgan Bello, YMCA VP, hugging someone while holding a copy of an Annual Report.

Four stacks the YMCA of the National Capital Region's 2025 Annual Report.

010

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 30/06/2026

Thanks to all who joined our Hands-On Skilled Trades Exploration Event! 🧰🛠️ Participants explored interactive stations featuring tiling, carpentry, plumbing, painting, taping, and employment support. We're proud to open doors to in-demand careers in the skilled trades.

A wooden wall with hard hats and a poster. The poster reads "Hands-On Skilled Trades Exploration Event" and displays an image of a man wearing a hard hat, smiling.

A trades instructor holding two planks of wood steady as an event participant drills them together at an interactive carpentry station. Several people are observing, and there is a room full of attendees exploring stations in the background.

A trades instructor guiding two event participants at an interactive tiling station

A trades instructor smiling and standing next to an event participant who is painting a wall at an interactive painting station

010

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 23/06/2026

We're proud to be part of the Ottawa Social Housing Network 🏘️ As a provider of supportive and transitional housing, we know that community collaboration, sharing resources, and aligning our advocacy are key to creating lasting change. #EndHomelessness #SupportiveHousing #TransitionalHousing

A selfie of Liz and Jane from the Y Housing Services team attending an Ottawa Social Housing Network meeting.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 22/06/2026

Summer registration is now open to all! ☀️ ✨ Here are just a few highlights ✨ Clarence-Rockland YMCA: Zumba Strong, Hatha Yoga, HIIT, badminton, pickleball Taggart Family YMCA: Aquafit, yoga, Core and Glutes, soccer, walking club Explore more and register: www.ymcaottawa.ca/programs-and...

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 18/06/2026

Export Development Canada volunteered at Camp Otonabee for their Community Investment Day! 🤝 ❤️ They removed the out-of-service chalet deck and helped clear overgrown brush and branches, making the campgrounds cleaner, safer and more accessible. Thanks EDC and Volunteer Ottawa! #CommunityDayEDC

A group selfie of nine EDC team members standing by the Ottawa River waterfront. They are wearing blue Community Investment Day t-shirts.

Three EDC team members in blue shirts holding shovels above their heads. They are standing on a cleared patch within a forest.

Seven EDC members standing on Camp Otonabee grounds. They are wearing blue Community Investment Day shirts and holding loppers and shovels.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 16/06/2026

📮 You're invited to our 2026 AGM! Join us at the Taggart Family YMCA on June 24 from 4-6PM to reflect on our collective impact and look to the Y's future. There will be refreshments, Y stories, and the opportunity to connect with your community! RSVP: www.ymcaottawa.ca/events/agm-2...

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 15/06/2026

Thank you to Ottawa RentABike for supporting Y Ride for Youth for the second year in a row. By providing bikes for youth in the YMCA’s Second Stage Housing program, they helped make the ride accessible to all. 🚲❤️ Their generosity is an investment in brighter futures for youth in our community!

YMCA of the National Capital Region CEO Trevor McAlmont and VP Strategy Morgan Bello standing with Harry Musson from RentABike inside the bike rental shop. Harry is holding a certificate of appreciation.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 15/06/2026

Summer registration is now open for Y Members! 🌻 ✨ Here are just a few highlights ✨ Clarence-Rockland YMCA: volleyball, Mobility and Stretch, Boxing Fundamentals Taggart Family YMCA: basketball, Balletone, Young at Heart Explore more and register: www.ymcaottawa.ca/programs-and...

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 12/06/2026

#MulticulturalismDay memories 💭🗺️ Want to be part of the fun this year? Join us at the Taggart Family Y on Saturday, June 27 (11AM-3PM) to celebrate our community's cultural mosaic! Enjoy performances, food, music, and a world tour of cultural booths. RSVP: www.ymcaottawa-nic.ca/event-detail...

A group of five women, each wearing different cultural attire.

Four women wearing traditional Tunisian attire, standing at the Tunisian cultural booth with food and decorations

Five members of the Vistula Polish Dance Group wearing traditional attire.

Two women hugging between Columbia and Cuba booths. There are poster boards with photos and information, as well as a taco pinata and other decorations.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 10/06/2026

Inclusion starts with conversations! 💬 Our IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility) Committee got together outside the Museum of Nature. It was great to catch up and have meaningful chats about how we can put inclusion into action at the Y, through individual and collective efforts.

Ten members of the YMCA IDEA Committee sitting at picnic tables outdoors. They are holding up peace signs and Y signs with their arms.

YMCA IDEA Committee members sitting at picnic tables and listening to one member speak.

YMCA IDEA Committee members sitting around a picnic tables and talking.

YMCA IDEA Committee members sitting at picnic tables as Co-Chairs Shay and Taylor stand and speak to the group

020

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 09/06/2026

Sports 200 was a fantastic celebration of community, movement, and fun! New and familiar faces visited the Taggart Family Y to enjoy a variety of activities, including badminton, Mega-Fitness Circuit, basketball, Aquafit, family swim, lane swim, open swim, and the Kid Zone.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 05/06/2026

Join our FREE Multiculturalism Day celebration on Saturday, June 27 from 11AM-3PM at the Taggart Family Y! Experience cultures and traditions from around the globe. Visit country booths and enjoy food, music, and performances. 🗺️ RSVP today: www.ymcaottawa-nic.ca/event-detail...

002

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 03/06/2026

Immigrants are often scapegoated by people who seek to divide and distract us. We can’t fall for these tactics. We are proud to be a place that welcomes immigrants and refugees, and seeks wellbeing for all. Join us in supporting an inclusive Canada: BetterTogetherCanada.ca

Text: We're Better Together. Whether we were born here or moved from elsewhere, we all want the best for our families. Our Canada includes immigrants and refugees. Image: A red background with white text and blue and yellow dot graphics.

020

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 29/05/2026

On June 6 & 7, celebrate Ottawa’s 200th anniversary with free drop-in sports activities across the city. The Taggart Family Y is proud to participate! Join us for badminton, Mega-Fitness Circuit Class, basketball, family swim, and more. Explore the schedule: www.ymcaottawa.ca/events/sport...

A graphic with a navy blue background. Three white stick figures are playing sports: tennis, rowing, and wheelchair basketball. Below them are two logos: Ottawa 200 and Ottawa Sport Council.

000

YMCA of the National Capital Region @ymcaottawa.bsky.social · 27/05/2026

Hey, students! Summer is the time to focus on you. Enjoy a full Y Membership for $155* from now until August 31, 2026. Work out, swim, and get unlimited group fitness classes. Learn more: www.ymcaottawa.ca/programs-ser... Valid student ID required. *Prorated.

Text: Find more ways to get active this summer. YMCA Summer Student Membership. $155 May 16 to August 31. Image: A young woman smiling in a fitness class. The image is framed by a red triangle graphic.

000