On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the achievements of women at the YMCA and the contributions they make to helping communities thrive. With women representing over 80% of the Canadian YMCA’s workforce and leadership positions nationally, we understand the positive impact and boundless opportunities when women and girls can reach their full potential.

Many women and girls face a world that tries to define what they can or can’t do, or should or shouldn’t do. It is even harder for women who have been marginalized due to inequalities based on race, class, sexuality, gender identity, and other forms of discrimination.

At the YMCA we are committed to our responsibility to ensure gender inclusion in our facilities, workplaces, and programs for all women. We are dedicated to creating spaces where women of every background can thrive and show up as their whole selves. This includes staff, volunteers, members, and participants. When we all can shine, our communities will shine brightest.