Cape Breton Post

Fitness matters

Inspiring stories from the YMCA of Cape Breton

- Andre Gallant Andre Gallant is the CEO of YMCA of Cape Breton.

My first interactio­n with the YMCA of Cape Breton was in 2002 when I moved here with my wife and our two year old. We needed a daycare and, to us, the YMCA was the only choice. We had 100 per cent trust in the Y.

Three years and a second child later, our two boys were in swimming lessons at the Y. And in 2008, I started as CEO.

Every day, when I walk through our doors, I feel an immense sense of pride for our organizati­on, our staff, our volunteers and our members.

Through this column, I’m going to introduce you to the people and programs that make the YMCA great.

I hope to leave you feeling encouraged and capable of achieving your best health.

The YMCA is a community of people, who support one another on their journey to wellness.

Our approach is different than a gym.

We look at fitness as a means to wellness and good health. That is why every YMCA member has access to our wellness coaches, who will provide a compliment­ary wellness plan, tailored to fit your needs and comfort level.

We take this mission further by offering resources and support for other community groups, like the Cape Breton Fiddlers Run, the cancer transition­s program and Breton Ability Centre.

When you walk through our doors, you will see people of all ages and fitness levels, from a toddler playing in the bounce house, to an athlete in our conditioni­ng centre, to a senior who loves swimming laps in our pool.

We’re also a charity that, through the generosity of our donors, provides access to programs for hundreds of children and adults each year.

Fifteen years after my first experience with the YMCA of Cape Breton, I am still inspired and humbled by our people.

I can’t wait to share with you amazing stories from our members and their journeys to wellness.

YMCA of Cape Breton programs and services include:

Three wellness centres in Sydney, Membertou and Port Hawkesbury;

Child-minding, daycare, swimming lessons and after school programs; Fitness classes for all levels; Swimming pool access in Sydney;

Employment Services in Sydney, Port Hawkesbury, Glace Bay and New Waterford;

Summer day camps in Sydney and Port Hawkesbury;

Financial aid for those who cannot afford a membership.

For more informatio­n on

the YMCA of Cape Breton, visit capebreton.ymca.ca , call 902-562-9622 or email info@ cbymca.com. You can also visit us on Facebook or Instagram.

 ?? SUBMITTED PHOTO ?? The YMCA has been serving the community since 1886. This photo shows the Hi-Y club in its heyday, circa 1950.
SUBMITTED PHOTO The YMCA has been serving the community since 1886. This photo shows the Hi-Y club in its heyday, circa 1950.
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