Y Thrive

Research shows that half of girls stopplaying organized sports by adolescence, often due to barriers like cost, access, or feeling sport “isn’t for them.” Kick Like a Girl program helps remove barriers and builds belonging, confidence and lifelong participation in sport.

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Designed to remove barriers and build confidence, Kick Like a Girl combines expert coaching with an inclusive, supportive environment where every girl has the chance to feel strong, capable and part of the game.

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Girls between the ages of 4 and 14, grouped into developmentally appropriate age categories.

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Kick Like a Girl is a new YMCA BCcommunity soccer program designed for girls ages 4 to 14. It combines YMCA BC’sinclusive, community-based approach with Whitecaps-trained coaching.

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While program completion does not guarantee or provide preference for employment with our organization, participants gain valuable skills, experience and insights that support their overall career development and employability.

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If you are a newcomer, yes!

Many of our alumni joined the program while already running businesses abroad or in Canada. Through the program, they gained valuable insights into the Canadian market, best practices and legal requirements.

We welcome all families to join our child care waitlists. A parent may join a YMCA BC Child Care waitlist once an expected date of birth is known or from the date, a parent is approved for an adoption and/or becomes a foster parent.

If a date of birth is unknown, the parent will select a check box to identify they are seeking an adoption/foster child. Once selected a prompt will ask the adoptive/foster parent to enter a placeholder date and to contact the YMCA BC child care registration team regarding next steps and support.

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Notice for withdrawal is required a minimum of 30 calendar days from the start of the month. For example, to cancel effective January 1st, 2026 notice is due no later than December 1st, 2025. For September withdrawals at Before & After School and Preschool programs, notice is required by June 30th.

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Each YMCA BC Child Care location and program (Infant Toddler, 3 to 5 Years, Before & After School, etc.) has their own waitlist. Families may join a waitlist as soon as they are expecting, please ensure you tell us your preferred start date.  See below if you are an adoptive and/or a foster parent or guardian.

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Please note, if you are waitlisting your child for an Early Learning program, please also ensure you are waitlisting for a Before & After School program (if this is required) as these operate independently from each other. Age ups from Early Learning to School Age are not guaranteed and are based on availability and waitlist application dates.

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There are many child care locations that are participating in this program. However, not all programs are opted in. YMCA BC makes every effort to apply each time there is an opportunity to do so. For more information regarding $10-a-Day programs in BC including which locations are opted in, please click here.  

Once your child is formally registered, we are happy to support you with your Affordable Child Care Benefit Application. For more information about the Affordable Child Care Benefit, please click here.

The Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative (CCFRI) is a Provincial Government program that helps reduce child care fees. The CCFRI discount is based on the age of the child and their enrollment type. CCFRI discounts are applied automatically at the time of registration and no action is required by the families. CCFRI discounts are not applicable at $10-a-Day programs across the regions.

For more information regarding CCFRI, please click here.

If you are working with a 3rd party payer, please contact us directly for assistance, once your child has been registered. Families are not able to make these updates through their child care account. YMCA BC will not engage in disputes regarding custody agreements and all 3rd party payers must provide a method of payment and consent to be set up as a payer. The primary account holder (the person who accepts the space) is responsible for ensuring all funding has been set up accordingly.

After you reach out, a PEACE Counsellor  will connect with you to learn about your child's needs, explain available services, and determine the best pathway for support. You will receive guidance on next steps and resources tailored to your child's age and situation.

The non-offending parent and caregiver receives guidance on how to support their child's emotional well-being, access safety planning, understand trauma impacts, and connect with community resources.

The program offers pyschoeducationl one on one  counselling,  parent-child sessions, expressive arts therapy,and peer group counselling (ages 5-6, 7-9, 9-12, and 13-18) more. These approaches help young people express emotions, build resilience, and strengthen their confidence in a safe, guided environment.

Yes. All services within the PEACE Program are confidential. We provide a safe, supportive environment where children and families can speak openly. Our team will clearly explain any limits to confidentiality, such as mandatory reporting required for child safety.

The program is available to children and youth ages 3 to 18 who have experienced or witnessed violence in their homes or relationships. Caregivers, including parents and guardians, can contact us directly to learn how the program can support their family.

Yes. Staff can support you with referrals to housing, legal supports, counselling, income assistance, child services, health care, and other community resources. Advocacy and accompaniment to appointments may also be available.

If something doesn't feel safe, respectful, or right, you can reach out. Violence can take many forms beyond physical harm. Staff are available 24/7 to talk through your situation and help you understand your options. No judgment, no pressure.

Yes. The Y Women's Emergency Shelter provides safe space for women with or without children. Staff can also support mothers and children with emotional care, safety planning, and access to additional services.

Yes. The shelter follows strict confidentiality practices to protect the safety and privacy of all women and children. Staff will explain any legal limits to confidentiality, such as mandatory reporting in cases of child protection concerns.

No. You do not need a referral. You can call or text the shelter's 24/7 crisis line at any time to ask questions, discuss your situation, or arrange safe entry.

If something doesn't feel safe, respectful, or right, you can reach out. Violence can take many forms beyond physical harm: we encourage you to reach out. We are here to listen and help you explore your options. No judgment, no pressure.

Yes. The program can assist eligible participants in accessing the Canada-BC Housing Benefit, which provides rental support to those who meet the criteria. We can support you in accessing available rental subsidies, income supports, and community housing resources. We can also advocate on your behalf with partner agencies and landlords.

No referral is needed. You can call, text, or email us directly. Our Housing Outreach Worker will speak with you about your situation and guide you on the next steps.

Yes. All support provided through the Housing Outreach program is confidential. Our team prioritizes your safety, privacy, and comfort throughout the entire process, while explaining any mandatory reporting requirements.

This service is available to self-identifying women, with or without children, who have experienced, are currently experiencing, or are at risk of violence. You must live in Kamloops or nearby communities to access this housing support program.

You do not need to leave your relationship or home to access support. Outreach workers will meet you where you are at and help you explore options, build a safety plan, and make decisions that feel right and safe for you

Yes. Outreach workers can help connect you with shelters, housing supports, legal resources, counselling, health care, and other community services. They can also provide advocacy and, when possible, accompany you to appointments.

Yes. Services are confidential and client-centred. Outreach workers will explain any limits to confidentiality, such as situations where there is a concern for immediate safety or where reporting is required by law.

No referral is required. You can contact us directly by phone, text, or email to ask questions, explore options, or request support.

Stopping the Violence Outreach supports self-identifying women and their children who have experienced, are experiencing, or are at risk of experiencing violence. This can include physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, financial, or spiritual abuse, as well as coercive control or stalking.

Schedules are updated seasonally. Email connections@bc.ymca.ca for the latest program dates.

No formal homework is required. Participants may be invited to reflect on weekly themes or bring examples to share.

Each series explores everyday life in Canada, communication, culture, well-being, and other themes chosen to support newcomer settlement.

Schedules change seasonally. Please email connections@bc.ymca.ca for the most up-to-date program dates and times.

No. Conversations for Life is not a formal ESL course. It is a supportive, discussion-based space to practice English naturally.

No. This program is designed for newcomers at various English levels who want to build confidence through guided conversation.

Please bring comfortable clothing, water, and any items you need for light physical activity.

While this is not a formal ESL class, sessions include conversational English practice woven into physical activity and group interaction.

Yes. Canadian Fitness Connection is fully funded and completely free for eligible newcomers.

No. All fitness levels are welcome, and activities are adapted to meet your comfort level.

Yes. Newcomers at all stages of the citizenship journey are welcome to join and learn at their own comfort level.

Our team can help you understand study materials and the test process, but formal eligibility should be confirmed through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

The program runs on an ongoing basis with flexible participation so newcomers can attend sessions as they prepare at their own pace.

Yes. All Citizenship Preparation classes are offered at no cost for eligible newcomers.

Yes. The program is based on the Discover Canada Study Guide, and we encourage participants to bring their copy in print or digital form.

We may also have separate in-person weekly sessions for Temporary Foreign Workers. If you are one, please email connections@bc.ymca.ca to learn more and register.

Participants must be legally able to work in Canada (i.e. Permanent Residents, Convention Refugees, or individuals in Canada under CUAET measures).

Yes. Please email connections@bc.ymca.ca to register before attending your first session.

This program is designed for adults. If child care support is needed, please contact our team for available options or referrals.

No specific level is required. The program welcomes all newcomers who want to practice speaking English, regardless of fluency

Email connect2work@bc.ymca.ca and a team member will contact you with upcoming workshop dates and intake instructions.

Absolutely! ESL support is a key part of the program, and all workshops are designed to be accessible for English learners.

Yes. Connect2Work is fully funded and free for eligible newcomer.

No. Connect2Work is designed to support newcomers at all stages, including those entering the workforce for the first time.

You will build communication skills, job-readiness skills, and workplace confidence through weekly workshops and coaching. The program offers monthly workshops focused on soft skills, English and communication, digital skills, job search strategies, interview practice, and understanding Canadian workplace culture.

You can explore formal ECE programs, related training like our Responsible Adult Course, or entry-level opportunities in the child care sector.

This program helps you explore what it�s like to work with children, understand the responsibilities involved, and learn about Canadian child care standards. Many participants use it to decide whether to pursue Early Childhood Education training or related roles.

Yes. The program is newcomer-friendly, and instructors support varying English levels.

No. It is an introductory course that helps you understand the pathway toward ECE certification.

No experience is required. This program is ideal for newcomers who are curious about or interested in working with children but want to learn more before pursuing formal training.

No. SEP is a longer, more advanced employment program. If you are not a newcomer, or have been in Canada more than five years, SEP may be a better fit.

Yes, the program includes digital literacy components that require digital access.

No formal certification is provided, but you will receive a participation acknowledgement and ongoing support.

No. Many participants come with early-stage ideas. Our Business Advisors will help you explore opportunities and shape a viable plan.

Email YGV-SEForNewcomers@bc.ymca.ca to receive intake details and next steps.

No. The program is free for eligible participants. This program reflects YMCA BC�s commitment to equity and belonging by offering accessible, barrier-free support for those navigating new employment pathways in Canada.

The program runs for approximately 5�7 weeks depending on the intake cycle.

International students and Post-graduate Work Permit Holders living in British Columbia, who are legally able to work in Canada and are unemployed.

No. The program supports participants who are new to the Canadian labour market.

If you have been living in Canada for fewer than five years, and are legally eligible to work here, please explore the Self-Employment for Newcomers program delivered via our Newcomer Support Services team instead.

The program is fully funded for eligible participants and includes training, coaching and support at no cost.

No formal certification is provided, but you will receive participation acknowledgement and ongoing support.

You must have a specific business idea and develop a business concept to apply. The program will help you assess feasibility and build a complete business plan with expert guidance.

Yes. Participants receive ongoing support and coaching throughout the early stages of business operation.

Services are free, individualized, and designed to remove financial and systemic barriers that often prevent youth from securing housing.

Yes. Staff assist with paperwork and navigating government systems.

Yes. The program offers emergency financial support and landlord mediation.

No. Youth are supported regardless of their current situation.

The program ensures students who face challenges are not left behind. The program replaces punitive experiences with restorative, supportive learning that strengthens wellbeing and maintains academic connection.

Refferal is made through the student's school. Parent/guardian permission is required. Program staff work collaboratively with the school and parents/guardians.

Back on Track combines one-on-one support, group workshops, and follow-ups with the school. Each student�s time in the program is personalized based on their situation and needs. The goal is to get students to cool down, reflect, and commit to their studies.

Back on Track takes a preventive approach. It takes the risk of suspension or a cycle of repeated suspensions and transforms it into a positive and restorative experience�one that includes lots of support, reflection on personal growth and autonomy, and a structured return to school.

Travel funds for participants and organizers are covered. Hosting costs are covered locally.

Yes. Youth help plan activities, budget decisions, and community projects.

Groups are paired with a twin group based on goals, availability, and location.

The program provides job-search coaching, resume and interview preparation, and skill-building to increase your readiness for employment. While it does not guarantee a job, it equips you with tools to succeed.

The program includes accredited and employer-recognized certifications such as FOODSAFE Level 1, and may offer First Aid, WHMIS, SuperHost, or other workplace training depending on cohort.

The bootcamp runs periodically throughout the year. Participants receive exact session dates once they register.

o. The program is designed for youth at all levels, including those entering the workforce for the first time.

Eligible participants may receive a living allowance based on attendance and engagement, plus additional supports if required.

Skills related to communication, emotional regulation, mental and physical health, confidence and managing change.

No. Youth, caregivers, or school staff may reach out directly.

a. One-on-one support is provided in select schools.

b. Workshops can be provided in schools, YMCA sites, or community spaces based on what works best for the youth.

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No. The program is free.

Youth ages 11 to 19 who are preparing for or experiencing important school or life transitions.

Yes. Youth earn while participating in the business component.

The program is free, inclusive, and designed to welcome youth from all backgrounds. It removes financial and systemic barriers and provides access to mentorship and skills that many young people may not otherwise receive.