YMCA Calgary is a city-wide force for community building. When you donate to the YMCA, you unlock opportunities for community members to take a step forward in realizing their full potential.

Together, we create spaces where those in need can live happier, healthier lives. Your generosity provides hope and opportunity, and fosters a sense of belonging, empowering people to discover their potential, enjoy a little bit (or a lot!) of fun, and grow into the best version of themselves. Together, we are making a lasting difference, one life at a time. 

Thank you to our donors, sponsors and community partners for their generous support. Together, we raised $6,880,512 in 2024! Your donations helped YMCA Calgary offer the following programs and services:

  • Greatest Need: Your donations supported YMCA Calgary as a thriving community hub with over 3.9 million visits in 2024, benefiting both physical health and community connection.
  • Child & Youth Assistance:  6,732 young people received memberships, 7,558 program experiences were funded, and 6,208 children joined us with free memberships through the Calgary Flames Grade 6 YMCA program.
  • Outdoor Camp Experiences:  87 youth participated in free summer programs at Camp Chief Hector and Camp Riveredge, while 868 children and youth were funded for year-round outdoor school experiences.
  • Adult Financial Assistance: 8,136 adults received reduced fee memberships, and 372 adult program experiences, like swimming lessons and choir groups, were funded.
  • Youth Empowerment: 2,308 youth gained confidence, skills, and opportunities through programs like the Tutoring Table, Indigenous Programs and YMAP.
  • Global Initiatives: Your support helped us make impactful global efforts with our partners, YMCA Bogota and YMCA Ukraine.
  • Endowment Fund: Together we are establishing a fund for long-term support to ensure financial assistance always remains possible at the YMCA and Camp Chief Hector YMCA.
  • General Fund & Capital Grants: Your support helped us secure facility updates and essential resources for YMCA programs and services.
  • Love, Camp Campaign: Your donations helped enhance Camp Chief Hector YMCA’s capacity and accessibility, expanding programs and extending seasons to provide year-round opportunities for all ages to connect with nature.
Click here to view our 2024 Impact Report.
Theo and his teacher, Ms. Cabral swimming at Healthy Living School

Theo's Story

What if a simple experience could bring a child newfound confidence and freedom? For Theo, that’s exactly what happened during his time at the YMCA’s Healthy Living School program. While Theo lives with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, his positivity and determination shine through every day. During his week at the YMCA, Theo was able to take part in activities that brought him joy and independence in ways he hadn’t expected.

Click to learn more about Theo’s inspiring journey and how inclusive programs like this are making a positive impact for children of all abilities.

A student found a way to express their creativity by making Ribbon Pants

Brave Dogs Clan Ribbon Pant Story

Every year, the YMCA Brave Dogs Clan youth embark on a special sewing project, creating Ribbon Skirts and Drum Bags— a journey that connected them to their culture and the teachings of their ancestors. As they learn to sew, they also receive powerful lessons from Cree/Metis Elder Doreen Spence, who shared the deep spiritual significance behind the Ribbon Skirts and drums. In this particular class, one young person, initially unsure about participating, took the creative leap to design a unique pair of ribbon pants, overcoming challenges along the way. This heartwarming story highlights how cultural teachings can inspire creativity, pride, and personal growth in unexpected ways.

Click to read how this project brought together tradition, individuality, and community in a way that left a lasting impact on these youth.

YMAP youth pose for a photo

Daniel's YMAP Journey

Arriving in Canada as a newcomer, Daniel was eager to build connections and experience life in a new country. When he discovered the YMCA’s Youth Mentorship and Academic Program (YMAP), he knew he had found a true sense of belonging. Through unexpected friendships, volunteer opportunities, and valuable career-building experiences, Daniel’s journey has transformed him in ways he never imagined.

Click to read how YMAP helped Daniel go from feeling out of place to becoming a confident young leader— and how this incredible program is making a real impact on youth from all backgrounds.