Heart of the City Co-chairs, Ace Burpee and Kristie Pearson, outside the historic Downtown Y

Y Winnipeg Unveils Volunteer Cabinet Team for $20M+ Heart of the City Capital Campaign for Downtown Y

YWinnipeg is thrilled to announce the Campaign Cabinet Team who will spearhead the $20+ Million Heart of the City Capital Campaign in support of the redevelopment of the Downtown YMCA-YWCA. 

Latest News & Updates

45 articles
Y Stories
Judy at the Downtown Y

Powerlifting and Empowerment

After rediscovering her strength through the Y Winnipeg’s low-impact fitness and strength classes, Judy Lutz has found more than a workout—she’s found a community and motivation.
Oct 8, 2025
Y Stories
Heart of the City Campaign
Subhan at the Downtown Y

Creating Spaces Where Community Grows

When Subhan Rasa arrived in Canada from Afghanistan, the challenges of starting over felt overwhelming. “I didn’t know how to find a job or where to begin,” he shares. “I struggled with English, I did
Sep 29, 2025
Y Stories
Heart of the City Campaign
Zakariya in front of the Downtown Y

Building Confidence and Friendships

Moving to a new country is full of challenges—adjusting to a different culture, learning a new language, and finding a sense of belonging. For many newcomer youth in Winnipeg, programs like the YMCA-Y
Sep 29, 2025
Y Stories
Heart of the City Campaign
Mother and daughter at the Downtown Y

The Impact of Quality Child Care

Originally from the Philippines, Avegail De Vera knows how challenging it can be to find the right support for her family. “When my daughter started at the Y’s child care program, it was a huge relief
Sep 29, 2025
Y Stories
Heart of the City Campaign
Tyler at the Downtown Y

Healing and Growth Through Connection

Tyler O’Brien’s journey is one of resilience and transformation. Growing up in Winnipeg, he faced immense challenges—homelessness, violence, and substance use—leaving him overwhelmed by anxiety and de
Sep 29, 2025
Y Stories
Heart of the City Campaign
James & family at the Downtown Y

A Fun, Safe Space for Families to Explore

For James Atem, the Downtown Y is a bridge between his childhood in Sudan and the future he wants for his kids. “Back home, we didn’t have pools,” he says. “The water wasn’t safe, and we had to worry
Sep 29, 2025
Photo of the Fekiri family of seven at the Downtown Y

Discover Stories of Impact

Discover what people are saying about the impact that Y Winnipeg has had on their health, their confidence, their families and their lives. Read their Y stories and see how the Y helps Winnipeggers Shine On.