YMCA Youth Advisory Committee to Host Free 2026 FIFA World Cup Watch Parties   Fredericton, NB – The YMCA of Fredericton Youth Advisory Committee is inviting the community to come together and cheer on Team Canada during the 2026 FIFA World Cup through a series of free World Cup Watch Parties hosted at the YMCA's downtown facility. The volunteer-led initiative will feature watch parties for all three of Canada's group-stage matches, as well as the FIFA World Cup semifinal and championship final. The first watch party will take place on June 12 at 4:00 p.m. at the YMCA of Fredericton, located at 570 York Street. Each event will feature a large-screen viewing experience, games, prizes, activities, and a concession stand, creating an exciting and welcoming atmosphere for soccer fans of all ages. Guests wearing Team Canada apparel will be eligible for additional prize draws throughout the event. The project is being organized entirely by volunteers on the YMCA of Fredericton Youth Advisory Committee, a group of young leaders dedicated to creating opportunities for youth engagement and community connection. "The World Cup is one of the few events that truly brings people together from every background and culture," said Caleb Morimanno, spokesperson for the YMCA Youth Advisory Committee. "We wanted to create a space where people can celebrate, connect, and share the excitement of cheering for Canada alongside their neighbours and friends." As Canada competes on soccer's biggest stage, organizers hope the watch parties will provide an inclusive gathering place for longtime supporters, newcomers to the sport, youth, families, and community members looking to experience the excitement together. "At the YMCA, we believe strong communities are built when people come together," said Morimanno. "These events are about more than soccer—they are about belonging, friendship, and creating memorable experiences for young people and families in Fredericton." Admission to all watch parties is free. Registration is required. Community members are encouraged to arrive early to participate in activities, enjoy refreshments, and show their Team Canada spirit before kickoff. Admission to the watch party does not include access to other YMCA facilities. However, all attendees will receive a future YMCA day pass. Children under 10 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and all YMCA admission and conduct policies apply. Additional details and match schedules will be shared through YMCA of Fredericton communication channels. About the YMCA of Fredericton The YMCA of Fredericton is a charitable organization dedicated to building healthy communities where everyone belongs. Through programs and services that support children, youth, families, and individuals of all ages, the YMCA works to strengthen the foundations of community and help people reach their full potential. Media Contacts Caleb Morimanno YMCA Youth Advisory Committee 506-429-2123 calebmorimanno@gmail.com

Mark Your Calendars for June June 1: Start of the new membership promo Start of the new monthly fitness challenge June 10: Final meeting of Family Friend for the season June 12: FIFA World Cup Watch Party in the Gymnasium at 4:00 p.m. June 18: FIFA World Cup Watch Party in the Gymnasium at 7:00 p.m. June 19: Final F.I.R.E. for the season June 19: Online registration for summer programs starts at 7:00 a.m. June 21: Last day of Spring Programs June 22: Start of Licensed Summer Day Camps June 24: FIFA World Cup Watch Party in the Gymnasium at 4:00 p.m. June 29: Start of summer registered programs

Trails Coalition and YMCA Create Powerful Partnership A new community solar project will offset carbon for Fredericton’s trails and YMCA childcare operations. Fredericton, NB — The Fredericton Trails Coalition (FTC) and the YMCA of Fredericton are proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership that combines sustainability, community collaboration, and innovation. Together, the organizations are launching a solar energy initiative that will power a greener future for Fredericton. The project will see the installation of a 100-kilowatt (kWh) solar array on YMCA property. This renewable energy system will generate enough clean power to offset the carbon emissions from the lighting of 4 kilometres of Fredericton’s trails, while also fully offsetting the carbon footprint of the YMCA’s Child Care Centre. This project is supported by a $64,000 investment from the Regional Development Corporation (RDC). The YMCA of Fredericton and the Fredericton Trails Coalition extend their sincere thanks to RDC for their leadership and commitment to advancing sustainable infrastructure in New Brunswick. Minister Gilles Lepage was excited to support the partnership and shared the following quote. “Projects like this demonstrate how community partnerships can drive innovative solutions that benefit both the environment and residents,” said Environment and Climate Change Minister Gilles LePage, who is also minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation. “By supporting this initiative, we are helping advance sustainable infrastructure while strengthening important community services in the region.” “This is more than just a solar project,” said Darcy Delaney, CEO of the YMCA of Fredericton. “It’s a model of how two community organizations can come together to make an immediate, measurable impact on the environment while supporting healthier, more sustainable spaces for families and residents.” Under the partnership, the YMCA will own and maintain the solar array, while the Fredericton Trails Coalition will contribute to the project’s capital funding. Both organizations will share in the energy savings and environmental benefits, furthering their shared commitment to environmental stewardship and long-term community improvement. “This project reinforces the FTC’s commitment to active transportation and increased leisure activities on city trails,” said André Arseneault of the Trails Coalition. “As part of our mandate we support reducing the energy footprint of new projects that improve the usability and safety of our trails.” The City of Fredericton is also a supporting partner in this project. Mayor Rogers is quoted: “This innovative partnership between the Fredericton Trails Coalition and the YMCA is increasing trail lighting while being environmentally conscious, reflecting the collaboration and community leadership that is at the heart of Fredericton” said Mayor Kate Rogers. “This affordable and sustainable solution uses clean energy to support the City’s ongoing commitment to enhance safety and usability along Fredericton’s network of over 150km of trails.” The solar installation—known as the Tara and Terry Community Solar Project—will be managed by local firm Epic Energy, with installation scheduled for completion by the end of May. Additional support for the project is being provided by the Trans Canada Trail and the Tara Savage Fund. Once operational, the system is expected to