YMCA Newcomer Connections

New Y Story! Mariia Sydorenko's inspiring journey at the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick! Arriving in Saint John in January 2023, Mariia faced language barriers but found support through LINC classes and employment workshops at our Y. Her determination paid off when she joined our Newcomer Connections team in June. Now, Mariia is paying it forward! In just 6 months, she's guided 137 newcomers, with 69 finding jobs. Her story showcases the power of community support and perseverance. "Canadian people and the YMCA helped me to give me a new life," says Mariia. We're proud to have her on our team, helping others shine on their settlement journey! Read more about her journey here: https://lnkd.in/egMZYYRS Have a story to share? Tell us your Y story at: https://lnkd.in/eCtdifcj Embracing our 170th anniversary milestone, we embark on a heartfelt journey to illuminate 170 tales of positivity. These stories illuminate the profound impact the Y has had on our community and reciprocally, the unwavering support our community has extended to the Y. Here is story number (104/170) #YMCA #CommunitySupport #ShareYourYStory

#ThrowbackThursday Y Story Dora Nicinski has been volunteering with the YMCA for several years and was also a First Friend volunteer with the Haidery family. "It's a wonderful thing to help others, and when you give, you get back," says Dora. "Anybody who's curious about volunteering, I would certainly encourage them to follow that curiosity." Watch this Y Story: https://lnkd.in/eBuuSXNU

#ThrowbackThursday Y Story Peter Ng joined the Skills Launch program at YMCA Newcomer Connections and was placed to work at Britt's Pub. "Peter is a very outgoing, team-oriented person who is more than willing to help any of the staff and so eager to learn, it's been outstanding," said Joshua Hogan of Britt's Pub + Eatery Watch this Y Story from Skills Launch https://lnkd.in/eVWHYG6i

✨ Start and End Every School Day with the YMCA! ✨ Fill the time before and after school with fun, friends, and learning in YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick’s licensed care programs. 🏫🎨 Available at multiple locations, our programs provide a safe, supportive environment where children thrive. 🌟 Why Choose YMCA After School Care? 🔒 Safe and Caring: Kids enjoy exciting activities, outdoor time, and a nutritious snack, all under the guidance of caring staff. 🌞 Comprehensive Care: Includes programming on PD and Snow Days, with full-day care available for non-registered children (advance registration required). 📍 Flexible Locations: Available at Prince Charles, West Side, Forest Glen, Loch Lomond, and GCC Temporary Site. Our "A Place to Connect" curriculum supports holistic development for children aged 5-12, ensuring they grow in a space that aligns with our Mission, Vision, and Values. 🌱 To secure your spot for September 2024, contact us at hello@yswnb.ca. We look forward to welcoming your child to the YMCA! 😊 #YMCA #AfterSchoolCare #Childcare #SupportingFamilies #NewBrunswick

New Y Shine On moment! Theophile received support recently from our Newcomer Pre-employment services for his aim to work in bilingual reception. He has been really pleased working with the Employment Liaison, Mariia Sydorenko. “I learned about the presentation of my CV, the need for a messaging system for my phone, and the necessary follow-up of my job applications. She listened to me and gave me a lot of hope," says Theophile. "The Y does not directly offer work, but it is a necessary springboard to employers. Highly recommend to a newcomer.” Following the session, he joined our special Workplace Essentials Skills employment program for Francophones to further build his language skills and work hard towards his aim. Learn more about our pre-employment support here. https://lnkd.in/g8AuSSmf

#ThrowbackThursday Y Story Thi Minh Thu Vo, a Vietnamese newcomer, was the instructor in the International Cooking Class held in March, where she taught all the participants how to make spring rolls and Beef Pho. When our organizer approached her, Thu accepted the opportunity without any hesitation. Additionally, she paid for all the ingredients used during the class by her and the participants. She also decided to donate all proceeds from the ticket sales to the Strong Community Campaign. Check out this Y story https://lnkd.in/eZpTwVtx

New Y Story! Our Language Instructor, Sobiya Motiwala, recently completed her 1 year teaching LINC classes at Newcomer Connections. Here's what she has to say about her experience working with newcomers. "From the moment I first stepped through the doors of the YMCA Newcomer Connections almost a year ago, I felt a spark, a flicker of something special. The flutter of nerves as I began my new journey, yet something about the place—the welcoming atmosphere, the sense of community—instantly resonated with me. YMCA is like your learning Companion, confidant, and mentor, seeing potential in you that you hadn’t yet recognized. Y encouraged you to take on new challenges, step outside your comfort zone, and pursue your passions." "As I reflect on the past year, My heart swells with gratitude. The YMCA has been a sanctuary, a source of inspiration, and a family where you have felt valued and appreciated in ways you never thought possible. I feel cherished working at the YMCA not just for what I do, but also for what it has helped me become. Looking ahead, I feel hopeful, excited, and deeply appreciative of the journey I have been on." You too can join our team. Learn more about working with us and see our current openings on our website. #AlwaysMovingForward #NewcomersinSaintJohn #ShineOn #LanguageInstructor #NewcomerConnections #Newcomers #JoinOurTeam #LearningCompanion #Gratitude #Inspiration #Community #YMCA

Summer's not done melting away just yet, but our awesome Youth Team is making sure it goes out with a bang! This week, we whipped up a final week of summer youth programming at Newcomer Connections with art week, filled with laughter, creativity, and, pottery painting! Just check out these pics – looks like our young artists were having a blast! ️ Next week, we're throwing a striking end-of-summer celebration at Bowlarama! It's the perfect way to say goodbye to summer and gear up for a fantastic fall. Want your kids to join the fun? Our Youth Program is packed with awesome activities all year round. Just shoot an email to our Youth Team at newcomeryouth@saintjohny.ca and let's get your little ones enrolled! Learn more about our youth programs: https://lnkd.in/eRehxPxv

Join us for a cultural adventure at the YMCA Get Together Bazaar! 🌎✨ Explore unique handicrafts and savour delicious treats, all set up by the participants of our Employment Programs in support of the YMCA’s Annual Strong Communities Campaign. Visit the Saint John Regional Y on August 21st from 12-4 pm. What can you expect in this pop-up market? 🔻Multinational handicrafts 🔻Snacks 🔻Games 🔻Baked goods Drop in, support newcomers in learning new skills, get acquainted with awesome new people, and buy something new!

The excitement of a new school year is just around the corner! As parents and students prepare for another academic adventure, back-to-school shopping becomes a crucial part of the process. To make your shopping experience smoother and more budget-friendly, we’ve put together some essential information and tips. Read this blog: https://lnkd.in/d8W4cgTv Don't miss our exclusive back-to-school Shopping day, where you can prepare for the upcoming school year, enjoy special deals at Walmart and get expert advice from our SWIS Team. Come shop with us on Friday, Aug. 23 between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. We will be available in both Walmart East and West.