Breaking Barriers Toward Strength and Belonging
For Michael Chartrand, the Downtown Y is more than a place to swim—it’s a community that keeps him moving, both physically and emotionally. Living with a connective tissue disorder that causes pain and stiffness, Michael relies on his twice-weekly swims to stay active and connected. “When I first started, I was terrible at swimming. I was so slow I got kicked out of the slow lane. I didn’t know what I was doing—I was actually pushing myself backward,” he laughs. “But now, I’m the fastest swimmer here.”
For eight years, Michael has been a committed member of the Y. The pool has helped him rebuild his strength, and the welcoming atmosphere has given him a sense of belonging. “I’m housebound most of the time, but coming to the Y gives me a reason to get out. The camaraderie here makes all the difference,” he says. The Y has become his safe haven, where he can focus on his health and connect with others.
Yet, navigating the building has often been a source of frustration. Broken lifts force Michael to take long detours or wait for assistance. “I waste so much time trying to figure out how to get to the pool when the lift is out. The staff are wonderful and always willing to help, but it shouldn’t be this hard,” he explains. Even entering the changeroom has its challenges. The accessible gate, designed for wheelchair users, requires staff to press a button. “It’s a whole process,” he says. “I have to get their attention, and sometimes they’re busy or the room is crowded. After a while, I made it a joke—‘Can you give me the finger?’ Everyone laughs, but it shouldn’t have to be this way.”
Despite these challenges, Michael continues to show up, determined to maintain his health and independence. But he knows others may not have the same resilience. “I feel for people who don’t speak up or aren’t as outgoing as me. Many probably just stop coming,” he says.
The Heart of the City Campaign is set to change that. Planned upgrades include reliable elevators and universal changerooms that prioritize accessibility, privacy, and dignity for everyone. For Michael, these improvements represent hope. “Simple changes like better-designed spaces and reliable elevators will allow so many more people to feel comfortable and included. The Y should be a place where everyone can thrive, without barriers holding them back.”
Your support of the Heart of the City Campaign will help make the Downtown Y a place where accessibility isn’t an afterthought—it’s a foundation for building community.