The YMCA in Canada continues to deepen our commitment to truth and reconciliation in 2026 through ongoing learning, reflection, and action. In April, representatives from 32 YMCAs (including the YMCA of Fredericton) met at Camp Chief Hector for the inaugural Kananaskis Gathering, focused on strengthening Indigenous relationships and advancing Truth and Reconciliation. The event fostered shared learning and set the stage for continued action. On National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, observed alongside Indigenous-led Orange Shirt Day, the YMCA reflects on the experiences of Indigenous children who were taken from their families and communities and sent to residential schools. We recognize the lasting impacts on Survivors, their families, and communities, and the healing that continues today. We remain committed to our reconciliation journey through ongoing learning, reflection, and action, and to continuing to build meaningful relationships with Indigenous Peoples and communities across Canada. As an organization serving children and youth across Canada, the YMCA recognizes National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day as a time to reflect on our responsibility to create communities where every child matters. We remain committed to providing safe, supportive, and inclusive programs and services that help children and youth thrive.

Mark Your Calendars for September! September 1 - Start of the New Fitness Challenge September 2 - Basketball assessments | U10 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. | U10+ 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. | YMCA Gymnasium at 570 York Street September 3 - Solar Panel Plaque Commemoration 1:00 p.m. at 570 York Street. September 7 - Labour Day | Holiday Hours | 570 York Street open from 8:00 - 4:00 p.m.| Fredericton North is CLOSED September 9 - Family Friend starts September 9 – 11 - Ignite Swim Assessments | 4:15 - 5:30 p.m. September 11 - F.I.R.E. returns September 14 - Fall programs start September 17 - Power Up starts September 28 - Matcha Monday for the Touch Coffee Bar September 30 - National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | Holiday Hours | 570 York Street is open from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. | No registered programs | Fredericton North is CLOSED.

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