YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth

YMCA Peace Medal Recipient Spotlight: Ellis Pickersgill 🌟 Meet Ellis Pickersgill, a passionate advocate for community care and universal food security. As this year’s Health & Wellbeing Peace Medal recipient, Ellis shares their award with the countless people who make change possible, from volunteers to community members.  Growing up in Massachusetts and now calling Nova Scotia home, Ellis’s journey has always revolved around community building. With a BA from St. FX and a background in community development, they've dedicated themselves to empowering youth, supporting at-risk groups, and addressing food insecurity. After working in community outreach programs like X-Project and the Antigonish Women’s Resource Centre, Ellis co-founded the Cole Harbour Community Fridge, now a thriving non-profit serving the HRM area. When asked what inspired the fridge, Ellis points to the philosophy of mutual aid—a belief that every community member can contribute to collective wellbeing. "It’s not about individual recognition," Ellis says, "it’s about the power of people who care deeply." In just a year, the fridge has seen an overwhelming response from locals, volunteers, and small businesses who fill the shelves daily.  From supporting lunch programs for students to mentoring youth, Ellis is showing up for their community every day. They see food access as essential to health, dignity, and peace, and dream of a future where universal food programs ensure no one is left behind.  Come celebrate Ellis and our fellow peace medal honorees who embody the spirit of community and compassion at the YMCA Peace Medal Awards Breakfast.  Wednesday, November 20, from 7:30 – 9:00 a.m Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 Let’s come together to honor these outstanding individuals and ignite a spark for peace in our community- Buy your tickets today at ymcahfx.ca/peacemedal   #YMCAPeaceMedal #CommunitySpotlight #HealthAndWellbeing #halifax #ymca #halifaxymca #buildinghealthycommunities #dartmouth #halifaxnoise #peacemedal

Dive into November with our Aquatics Leadership Courses! Whether you're looking to kickstart your career in aquatics or enhance your existing skills, we've got something for everyone. Visit ymcahfx.ca/aquatics for more information! #ymca #halifax #buildinghealthycommunities #ymcaaquatics #aquaticleadership

A huge thank you to everyone who came out to our YMCA Open House & Expo! Whether attendees took a dip in the pool, learned about our newcomer workshops, or signed up for student exchange, we loved seeing everyone come together for a day of celebrating community! Missed the event? No problem! Visit our website to learn more about what the YMCA has to offer and how you can get involved: https://ymcahfx.ca/  We are here to welcome you anytime! #halifax #ymca #halifaxymca #buildinghealthycommunities #communityimpact #ymcahalifax #youthempowerment #johnwlindsayymca #shineon

The YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mike Savage on his recent appointment as the new Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia. He has been a dedicated champion of the YMCA, particularly evident during our Peace Medal ceremony, where he highlighted the importance of community, inclusion, and service. His commitment to uplifting others aligns with our values, and we are grateful for his ongoing support.  We look forward to seeing the positive impact Mike will continue to have in his new role. #peacemedal #buildingstrongercommunities #halifax #ymcahalifax #ymca #lieutenantgovernor #communitychampions #shineon

Give the Gift of Wellbeing This Holiday Season! John W. Lindsay YMCA gift cards are a meaningful way to inspire health and self-care. Whether it's for group classes, personal training, or swimming lessons, it's a gift that supports wellness all year long. Stop by the front desk to grab yours today at the John W. Lindsay YMCA, 5640 Sackville St., Halifax.  #YMCA #HolidayGift #GiftOfWellness #JWLGiftCard #GiveTheGiftOfHealth #Halifax #HalifaxYmca #NovaScotia

Let’s celebrate the champions of early childhood education! The first five years of a child’s life are crucial for their development. Canada’s highly trained early childhood educators are the backbone of this growth, providing enriched environments where young minds can thrive. They don’t just supervise; they deliver high-quality, evidence-based programs that prepare children for school and future success. At the YMCA we deeply value our early childhood educators who are committed providing high-quality care for children and supporting families. Let's recognize and support these dedicated professionals, today and every day. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/g4ABEKHC #EarlyChildhoodEducation #ECE #ELCC #ymca #halifaxymca #earlychildhood #buildingstrongercommunities #shineon #halifax

October marks Mi’kmaq History Month—a time for reflection, learning, and a deeper connection to the rich culture and history of the Mi’kmaq people.  At the YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth, we are committed to deepening our understanding and actions towards truth and reconciliation. We believe in fostering genuine relationships, creating spaces where everyone feels they belong, and standing in solidarity with the Mi’kmaq community, acknowledging their contributions and deep connection to this land. We invite you to take this time to listen to Mi’kmaq voices, honor their traditions, and engage in the work of understanding and respect. Visit mikmaqhistorymonth.ca to learn more.  Together, let’s deepen our commitment to reconciliation—not just for this month, but for the future we’re building together. #MikmaqHistoryMonth #IndigenousHeritage #CommunityCelebration #YMCA #TruthAndReconciliation #halifax #ymca #halifax #buildinghealthycommunities

Meet Nada: Making a Difference as a Summer Day Camp Staff Member!  Nada's journey at the YMCA is a testament to the power of youth leadership! As a summer day camp staff member, she has dedicated herself to creating safe and fun environments for children, helping them build confidence and explore new experiences. Her favorite memory? Preparing campers for an end-of-summer talent show, "Watching the campers transform from nervous to excited performers was unforgettable" says Nada. Nada's commitment to empowering youth reflects our mission to ignite potential and foster growth, and we are so grateful for Nada's contributions- we can’t wait to see how she continues to inspire others!  By contributing to our Year-End Campaign, you can help us continue providing opportunities for youth like Nada and the children she inspires. Together, we can ensure that no one is left behind on their journey to personal growth and success. Donate today by following our link in bio! Read more about Nada's story here: https://lnkd.in/exp_uYyy #halifax #ymca #novascotia #halifaxymca #buildinghealthycommunities #ystories #communityimpact #ymcahalifax #youthempowerment #donatetoday

For a limited time, enjoy one week on us at the John W. Lindsay YMCA! Whether you're looking to try out some new fitness classes, receive some personal training, or explore our wellness programs, now’s the perfect chance to experience it all! Come see what the Y has to offer and ignite your wellbeing! 👉 Sign up today! ymcahfx.ca/membership/ #OneWeekFree #Halifax #HalifaxYmca #NovaScotia #Community