Rooted in Belonging:

“My whole childhood was built around the Y,” she says. “I don’t know where I would’ve gotten all my experiences and confidence if not for this place.”

From volunteering in children's programs to lifeguarding and working in the pool, Gaby grew up in the Y community. She learned how to lead, how to adapt to different needs in a group, and how to create a sense of belonging for others—especially kids who often struggle to find it elsewhere.

“Through the youth leadership program, we learned how to make space for everyone,” she says. “We worked with all kinds of kids—some with special needs, some with learning challenges—and we learned how to support them, connect with them, and help them grow.”

Now 26, Gaby works as an Educational Assistant with the St. James School Division and has just been accepted into the Faculty of Education at Université de Saint-Boniface. She credits her journey to the experiences and mentorship she found at the Y.

“I always wanted to become a teacher,” she says. “The Y helped me build the confidence and skills I needed to get there.”

But Gaby’s story isn’t just about her own growth. Over the past decade, she’s worked with countless kids—many of whom entered Y programs through the support of the Strong Kids campaign. Whether it’s swimming, gymnastics, or simply learning to make friends, she’s witnessed firsthand what happens when kids are given a place to belong.

“They come in shy, unsure of themselves—saying, ‘I can’t do a somersault’ or ‘I can’t glide.’ Then by week five, they’re doing it all. The transformation is incredible.”

She’s seen friendships form, confidence grow, and entire families connect to the community—often because Strong Kids made it possible. 
 
“When you give to Strong Kids, you’re not just giving kids one sport or activity. You’re opening the door to all kinds of experiences—sometimes five in one week. And that’s where they find what they love, and where they find each other.”