The heartbeat of a community: Inspiring stories from the YMCA of Greater Toronto
The YMCA of Greater Toronto is more than a gym — it’s a hub of transformation, a place where people find strength, community, and purpose. The Y has profoundly impacted countless lives. Committed to accessibility, the YMCA offers financial assistance to ensure everyone can benefit from its services, regardless of their financial situation.
From life-changing fitness journeys to newfound passions and lasting friendships, the following stories showcase how YMCAs across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) inspire their members and why you should try the Y today.
Transforming health and finding friendship
“The Y became my sanctuary, a place of growth and belonging.”—Sanja, Brampton YMCA member
Four years ago, Sanja decided to lose weight . At nearly 300 pounds, she began her fitness journey at home, determined to make a change. After shedding 60 pounds through basic workouts and diet changes , she gained the confidence to join a gym.
When Sanja started her free trial at the Brampton YMCA in 2023, she knew she’d found the right place. Warmly welcomed by staff and members, she felt a sense of community that motivated her to push further and achieve new fitness goals.
Today, Sanja has lost over 120 pounds, made lifelong friends, and embraced a healthier lifestyle. She credits YMCA trainer Deon Vella for providing expertise, encouragement, and friendship.
Building bridges through sports
“The Y is like a second home.... It’s a feeling money can’t buy.”—Bas, Markham YMCA member
For over a decade, Bas has been a friendly presence at the Markham YMCA. Starting as a regular badminton player, he became a daily member known for his warm connections with fellow members and staff.
After a brief hiatus during COVID-19, Bas returned to the Y, reigniting his passion for fitness and sports. His enthusiasm is infectious, whether playing badminton or pickleball or working out in the conditioning area. A natural community builder, he’s recruited new members and supported events like the Y’s Charity 5K run. For Bas, the YMCA isn’t just a gym — it’s a cornerstone of his active, connected lifestyle.
A lifelong connection to fitness
“The Y gave me a foundation and a love for sports, and a healthy, active lifestyle.”—Teresa, YMCA member
For Teresa, the YMCA has been a part of her life for as long as she can remember. Beginning with swimming lessons as a child, she grew up participating in Y programs and volunteering as an aquatic assistant.
Today, this university student studying kinesiology and biology remains deeply connected to the Y. As an athlete on York University’s cross-country and swim teams, Teresa trains at the YMCA to stay in peak condition. “The Y sparked my love for sports and has always been a big part of my life,” she says.
The Y is a place where everyone belongs
The YMCA of Greater Toronto is more than a fitness centre— it’s a place where individuals from all walks of life come to grow, connect, and thrive. Whether it’s Sanja’s weight loss journey, Bas’s community building, or Teresa’s athletic foundation, the Y is the common thread that unites these inspiring members of our community.
At the YMCA, members find more than just workouts — they find friendship, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
Where to find a YMCA fitness centre in the GTA
YMCA Health and Fitness centres are located throughout the GTA, including in Oshawa, Markham, Vaughan, Mississauga, and Brampton. In Toronto, there are six YMCA gyms — one each in Scarborough, North York, the Upper Beaches, Corktown, Central Downtown, and the West End.
Brampton
20 Union Street, Brampton, Ontario L6V 1R2
Near the Brampton Library, close to the areas of Ridgehill, Peel Village, and Madoc.
Markham
101 YMCA Boulevard, Markham, Ontario L6G 0A1
Near Highway 407, close to the areas of Unionville, South Unionville, Hagerman’s Corners, and Downtown Markham.
Mississauga
325 Burnhamthorpe Road West, Mississauga, Ontario L5B 3R2
Near the Square One Shopping Centre, close to the areas of Fairview, Cooksville, Mississauga Valley, and East Credit.
Oshawa
99 Mary Street North, Oshawa, Ontario L1G 8C1
Near the Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens, close to the areas of Central Oshawa, Waverly, Mclaughlin, Harmony, and Eastdale.
Toronto
20 Grosvenor Street, Toronto, Ontario M4Y 2V5
Between Yonge and Bay Streets and College and Wellesley Streets, close to the areas of Yorkville and Church-Wellesley.
461 Cherry Street, Toronto, Ontario M5A 0H7
Near Corktown Common, close to the areas of the Distillery District, West Don Lands, the Port Lands, Regent Park, and Riverside.
567 Sheppard Avenue East, North York, Ontario M2K 1B2
Near Bayview Village Shopping Centre, close to the areas of East Willowdale, York Mills, Silver Hills, and the Bridle Path.
230 Town Centre Court, Scarborough, Ontario M1P 4Y7
Near Scarborough Town Centre, close to the areas of Scarborough City Centre, Agincourt South-Malvern West, Woburn North, Bendale, and Dorset Park.
The Steve & Sally Stavro Family YMCA
907 Kingston Road, Toronto, Ontario M4E 1S4
Near Glen Stewart Park, close to the areas of The Beaches, The Upper Beaches, East Danforth, and Woodbine Gardens.
931 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M6H 1A1
At the corner of College Street and Dovercourt Road, close to the areas of Brockton Village, Little Italy, Trinity-Bellwoods, Little Portugal, and Liberty Village.
Vaughan
The YMCA at The David Braley Vaughan Centre
200 Apple Mill Road, Vaughan, Ontario L4K 0J8
Near Highway 7 and Highway 400, close to the areas of Edgeley, Black Creek, Pine Grove, and Woodbridge.
A 12th YMCA location, The McDonald Family YMCA, will open soon at King and Spadina in downtown Toronto’s Fashion District.
Try the Y today and see how we’re more than a gym.
