YMCA Calgary welcomed over 160 staff, volunteers, donors, board members, community partners, and youth leaders to the 123rd Annual General Meeting, hosted at Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton. It was an evening filled with reflection, recognition, and renewed commitment to our promise: to be a trusted neighbour and to inspire healthier, happier lives across our city.
We began the evening with a land acknowledgement and blessing by Knowledge Keeper Jaron Weasel Bear, and a powerful lesson on the Treaty 7 flag by Teigan Smith, grounding us in our shared responsibility and connection to this land. As Teigan, Indigenous Program Coordinator, so beautifully said, “listen with an open mind and an open heart”—a sentiment that set the tone for a thought-provoking evening.
The evening brought together influential voices from across Calgary, including Mayor Jyoti Gondek, Jeff Dyer (CEO, Trellis Society), Lara Murphy (CEO, Calgary Wild FC), and Sarah Meilleur (CEO, Calgary Public Library), who spoke passionately about trust, leadership, and the strength of community. As Mayor Gondek reminded us, “Community is built on one trusted experience after another”—a truth we see come to life every day at the YMCA.
From nearly 146,109 volunteer hours, 3.9 million visits, $6.8 million raised in donations and 14,868 memberships subsidized, YMCA Calgary’s impact in 2024 reflected an organization leaning in, evolving, and responding with care. “Our YMCA is not standing still—it reinvents, grows, and leads with courage,” said Ed Rihn, YMCA Calgary Board Chair, capturing the spirit of innovation and adaptability that guides our work.
One of the most heartfelt moments came from Rob Fleming, a volunteer fitness instructor whose journey with the YMCA now includes leading more than ten classes weekly. His story of discovering purpose, belonging, and community exemplifies the deep, personal impact of connection. His message – of the YMCA being a place of magic – was shared by other members of the YMCA community featured in a special video.
To keep the energy high, volunteer fitness instructor Rahmi Rahma Rahamata Diomande, a regular on Impact Magazine’s Top Fitness Instructors list, led the entire theatre in a movement break. It was a joyful interlude that had everyone on their feet, dancing, laughing, and celebrating wellness together.
During our business meeting, we honoured Zain Velji for his years of dedicated leadership on the Board, including his recent term as Chair from 2022–2024. We also warmly welcomed new Board Directors Sarah Schwann and David Warkentin, community leaders who bring a shared vision for a stronger, more connected Calgary.
We were especially proud to recognize Huntley O’Neill, a long-time volunteer who joined us in person to celebrate receiving the King Charles III Medal for his 23 years of dedicated service to YMCA Calgary. Huntley’s unwavering commitment is a testament to the power of consistency and care in building community.
A highlight of the evening was the panel discussion led by Shannon Doram, YMCA Calgary President & CEO. Joined by Sarah Meilleur, Lara Murphy, and Jeff Dyer, the conversation explored what it means to be a trusted neighbour. Their reflections reminded us that trust is built in many spaces: on sports fields, in libraries, at gyms, and beyond.
“Trust is built in rooms like this—but also on the pitch, in the gym, at the library—anywhere people come together and say, ‘We can do this together,’” shared Jeff Dyer. Sarah Meilleur emphasized the urgency of our work, noting, “Community need has never been greater. That’s why spaces like the YMCA, Trellis and the Library—and our partnerships—matter now more than ever.” Lara Murphy reflected, saying, “Bring someone along and in turn, they will do the same for someone else.”
We wrapped up the formal event with a performance by Canadian artist Zachary Stevenson that continued into our post-event block party. Zach was performing a Buddy Holly tribute at YMCA Calgary theatres and came in a day early to attend our AGM.
At our block party, guests had a chance to mix and mingle. There was great conversations had and new connections made—all over delicious food from Centre for Newcomers' EthniCity Catering.
As we reflect on 123 years of service, we’re reminded that beyond our buildings and program offerings, the YMCA’s strength lies in the people who show up, day after day, to build something greater, together.
“Thank you for being part of our story. Know that your YMCA is here for you—now and into the future,” said Ed Rihn.
Here’s to another year of trust, resilience, and collective impact. Let’s keep reaching out, welcoming others in, and building a Calgary where everyone belongs.
To learn more about our impact in 2024, view our Report to Community.
