Here, I learned to persevere.
Many young people face serious problems at home, at school and in their neighbourhood. Others are simply trying to find themselves. No matter what their situation, they all risk feeling isolated, dropping out of school or worse. YMCA TeenZones provide a welcoming place where young people can just be themselves.
“My name is Angeline. Everyone calls me Ngee. I’m 21. I left school when I was 17. I couldn’t do it anymore. I was the oldest of nine kids, now ten. I helped out with the little ones. There was just my mom. I didn’t have a choice. I decided to take a break.
Then, I started coming to the 16-24 Zone. At the Zone, Dave had a positive impact on my life. Really. He showed me how to chase my dreams and follow my heart. Today, I’m getting my life back together. I’m a part-time Secondary 5 student, I’m working full-time and I’m pursuing my music and dance projects. I feel like I’m on the right track.
Through your support, you are giving youth like Ngee a chance to be heard and providing them with experiences that allow them to discover their interests, achieve success and find their path.
Other inspiring stories…
Ngee, 16-24 Zone
The Meflah Family, Homework Help
Raphael and OJ, TeenZone
Jordan, YMCA Alternative Suspension
The Camp YMCA Kanawana experience: with you forever!
Testimonials - YMCA’s 16-24 Zone in Saint-Léonard
Our impact
3,000
students stayed in school.
2,100
campers were physically active and made friends at day camp.
1,600
young people thrived in our TeenZones.
900
youth, among 6,100 people who learned a new language, broadened their horizons.
800
youth had a transformative experience with nature at Camp YMCA Kanawana.