Smiles and syrup were on the menu for the Innisfil YMCA’s pancake breakfast in celebration of its 14th anniversary on Saturday.
Organized and served by cheerful staff members and volunteers from the YMCA’s Youth Leadership Group, 303 members of the community — including couples, families with young children, and friends — gathered to enjoy complimentary pancakes and fruit from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Member of Parliament for the riding of Barrie-Innisfil, John Brassard proudly presented Cynthya Dahan, centre manager of the Innisfil YMCA, and staff members with a certificate to commemorate the special event.
“I’ve been working with the YMCA since my time in Parliament since 2015, helping them with Canada Summer Jobs Programs so that they can provide the types of camps that they do throughout the summer. It’s one of the organizations that, in my riding in Barrie-Innisfil, that receives the most Canada Summer Jobs funding and it gives terrific life experience for those camp counsellors. But more importantly, it provides services to the community to have kids come to camp, and learn life skills, and form relationships, and build partnerships that will last a lifetime,” John Brassard, MP, explained. “The YMCA is an important organization here in the riding of Barrie-Innisfil, and I’m here to help them celebrate their 14th anniversary. I was here on the 10th [anniversary], and I’ll be here for many more milestone moments that the Y experiences over the coming years.”
The feeling of community was palpable as family members and volunteers assisted children as they made crafts. After extended periods of isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, simple interactions between children and the volunteers of the Youth Leadership Group stood out as special moments in time. Kids had fun as they learned the importance of teamwork and kindness that is passed down from one generation to the next.
"We are so happy to be celebrating the 14th anniversary of the Innisfil YMCA. This pancake breakfast is a way to say thank you to our community for their incredible support. Words can’t describe how excited we are to open our doors and spend time with members and guests in person this year … and who doesn’t love pancakes?!” Dahan said. "The number of ways people engage with the Y is countless; from our Parent & Tot swim lessons, and our Silver Club for our senior community, to the first part-time job for youth, and volunteer programs for those who want to give back. All of this combines to make the YMCA a hub for gathering where everyone belongs."
From families and friends to volunteers and staff members, the YMCA in Innisfil is part of a lasting legacy as a charity that supports every member of the community.
