The YMCAs across Southwestern Ontario and Walpole Island First Nation are proud to announce the signing of a new memorandum of understanding.
The signing marks the beginning of a partnership to further shared goals of building healthy communities and improving the health, well-being, and quality of life of children, teens, adults, and elders.
While the main purpose of the memorandum of understanding will be to explore a family fitness facility on Walpole Island, the parties will also be working together to identify other potential opportunities to achieve mutual goals.
“The YMCA has a great track record of doing what they do well, and we have many shared goals and values that make this an ideal partnership. We are very excited about this relationship and eager to start taking action together to better the health and well-being of our communities,” said Chief Dan Miskokomon, at the memorandum of understanding signing that took place at the Tuesday night council meeting on Walpole Island.
“We’re thrilled to be working with the Council and Community at Walpole Island First Nation to develop what has the potential to be the first YMCA within a First Nation in our region,” stated YMCA President & CEO Jim Janzen.
“The YMCA has a strong desire to work more closely with Aboriginal communities and youth to address challenges that are identified locally, nationally, and internationally. Our ability to collaborate and partner with Walpole Island First Nation will allow us to respond to their community needs and work together to provide innovative health and wellness programming.”
About the YMCA
The YMCA is a charity dedicated to strengthening the foundations of communities. We do this by nurturing the potential of children, teens and young adults; promoting healthy living; and fostering social responsibility. Our focus on inclusiveness and accessibility means we serve people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities through all stages of life. Through YMCA financial assistance programs, the YMCA is accessible to all. Our core offerings include: Childcare, Camping, Aquatics, Health & Fitness, Education, Employment Services, Volunteer Development, Global Initiatives, Community Initiatives and Opportunities to Give.
About Walpole Island First Nation
Walpole Island First Nation is an Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Odawa community located at the mouth of Lake St. Clair in Southwestern Ontario in a place we call Bkejwanong (where the waters divide). Walpole Island First Nation is committed to providing and enhancing social, economic, and cultural opportunities in a holistic way and in line with the teachings of the Seven Grandfathers.
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– Submitted photo: Walpole Island First Nation Chief Dan Miskokomon, and YMCA President & CEO Jim Janzen sign a memorandum of understanding, marking the beginning of a new partnership.
