In an effort to help individuals and families stay healthy, active, and connected to their communities, the YMCA of Greater Vancouver, along with other participating YMCAs across Canada, launched the exciting virtual space, YMCA at Home. 

YMCA at Home began in March of 2020 with a few exercise videos when YMCAs first started temporarily closing due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We were proud to use our Chilliwack and Robert Lee Family YMCA spaces to film many of the videos created. As more closures and lockdowns became a reality across the country, there was a realization that more YMCA programs could be turned virtual to support both the mental and physical health of Canadians during a challenging time. 

This spurred the launch of free virtual Y programs including: 

• Fitness activities and workout challenges for all stages and ages
• Family and children’s activities including arts and crafts, sing-a-long songs and stories, and physical literacy
• Mental wellness programs including the YWellness Speaker Series led by Sarah Blackmore, Manager of Mental Wellness Programs at the YMCA of Greater Vancouver.
• Leadership and personal development
• YGym: physical activity videos for children during school closures, with a French platform made available thanks to McCall MacBain Foundation
• An 8 week children’s virtual camp over the summer months
• A 6 part diabetes prevention program in partnership with UBC’s Small Steps for Big Changes
• A fitness series in partnership with ParticipACTION

Today, YMCA at Home has expanded to provide healthy programs and activities for all audiences including kids of all ages, families, adults and older adults. There are now more than 450 videos online, with more available every week.

Learn more about YMCA at Home and access the content by visiting www.ymcahome.ca.