News and Stories

Three teens are sitting on a couch, smiling in different directions as they interact with people off camera. Two on the left are boys and there is one girl on the right.

The YMCA receives $4 million in funding to improve student success

As part of $4 million in funding received by YMCA Canada through the Government of Canada’s Support for Students Learning program (SSLP), the YMCA of Southern Interior BC is pleased to announce that the YMCA Youth Transitions Program (YTP) will be available to support students in Kelowna and surrounding areas.

A woman with dark hair pulled back in workout clothes is holding two medals up and smiling at the camera. There is a gymnasium in the background.

Kethra's Story

I'm 44 and in the best shape of my life thanks to the opportunities I’ve had, and the community support I have received. It's all about mindset and what you want to achieve. I wasn’t going to let my age stop me from reaching my goals, living my healthiest self, and being the best role model I could be for my daughter.

Two blonde women in professional clothing are standing in front of a gymnasium and smiling at the camera.

YMCA names new VP of Marketing & Philanthropy

The YMCA Southern Interior BC has named their new VP of Marketing & Philanthropy to replace Rhonda Zakala who is retiring from the role after 17 years of leadership.

An enormous Christmas tree is lit up with all white lights in the nighttime, as a crowd gathers around the base. There are office buildings in the background that reflect the tree.

25th Annual Tree of Hope Campaign meets $1 million fundraising goal in support of YMCA and BGC Okanagan

The 25th annual Tree of Hope campaign in support of the YMCA of Southern Interior and BGC Okanagan has reached their collective goal to raise $1 million. The Stober Foundation closed out the campaign with a gift of $500,000, matching the donations raised by the two local charities during the holiday season.

Five adults are standing in a classroom smiling at the camera. In front of them a group of 15 children aged 5-7 are smiling and holding a large donation cheque made out to the YMCA.

Record-Breaking Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign brings in over $59,000 in smiles and snacks for YMCA Child Care

The local Tim Hortons teams did it again, selling a record-breaking number of cookies during the 26th Annual Tim Hortons Smile Cookie week, resulting in a $59,908 donation to the YMCA of Southern Interiors Child Care programs. The campaign, which ran for one week, saw tens of thousands of Tim Hortons customers purchase a smile cookie in support of this great cause.

Four adults and one child are standing outside in front of an enormous Christmas tree made of Christmas lights. They are all smiling at the camera and holding a sign that reads 'We've raised $403,00, help us reach $500,000!'.

Community Rallies Behind Tree of Hope Campaign to Reach $1M Goal

The 25th annual Tree of Hope campaign in support of the YMCA of Southern Interior and BGC Okanagan needs your help to reach their goal. This year, the Stober Foundation is #raisinghope by matching all funds raised up to $500,000 to support two local charities whose united mission is to promote healthy and resilient children, youth and families through programs that change lives. 