Creating Memories, Building Confidence:

When Sapphira steps into the Y, she’s not just going to a class—she’s stepping into a place where she belongs. From hip hop to gymnastics, swimming to badminton, her schedule is full of activity, joy, and connection. 

“The Y gives us a place to be together,” says Sapphira’s father, Robert. “It’s not just about the activities—it’s about the time we spend as a family.”

For Robert and his daughter Sapphira, the Y is more than just a community centre—it’s a place to grow, connect, and share memories. Sapphira has been coming to the Y since she was four, and with the help of Strong Kids, their family received a fully sponsored membership—opening the door to all the programs she loves.

From hip hop to gymnastics, swimming to badminton, her schedule is full of activity, joy, and connection. It’s the kind of experience Robert is grateful she gets to have.

“It’s amazing to have this opportunity for her,” he says. “I never figured it out before, but some of these programs are beautiful.”

Recently, Sapphira even started exploring the gym. Robert and Sapphira did a fitness assessment together and began gym training—setting goals, encouraging each other, and building healthy habits side by side.

Sapphira loves the routine, especially swimming and gym time with her dad.

“I like swimming the best. I can do handstands and front flips now. I feel strong.”

When asked who’s stronger in the gym, Sapphira doesn’t hesitate:

“I’m better in the gym. He doesn’t know nothing!” she laughs.

But the Y is more than just weekly routines. Through Strong Kids, Sapphira also had the chance to experience Camp Stephens, where she got to try the water trampoline and rock climbing wall—an experience she still lights up talking about.

“I went last August. I loved the water trampoline!”

For Robert, the Y is a place where he and his daughter get to spend time together—something he knows won’t last forever.

“She’s growing up fast. Soon she won’t want to hang out with her dad as much,” he says with a smile. “I’m just trying to enjoy it while I can.”

Through Strong Kids, Robert knows that Sapphira is building confidence, staying active, and making memories that matter. It’s a community they’re proud to be a part of.

“A lot of families don’t have the opportunity to set money aside for these programs. Food keeps going up, clothes keep going up. It’s a hard decision to make,” he says. “But with Strong Kids, you’re giving families a chance to be active, to learn new things, and to be part of a community.”