Healthy Communities

YMCA GTA named Top Employers for Young People

11 January 2016 - by Talía Noya
Top Employer for Young People 2016We are proud to announce the YMCA of Greater Toronto has been selected as one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People! This is the sixth time we’ve received this recognition. The YMCA and other selected organizations were chosen as ideal workplaces for young people to start and grow their careers.

This designation lists Canadian employers that demonstrate leadership in attracting and retaining younger employees with special benefits and programs, such as tuition assistance, co-op or work study, mentorship and training, benefits and career management.

The Y’s commitment to career development


Did you know that 43% of our employees are under the age of 30, and 35 is the average age of all our employees?

For recent graduates just starting their careers, the YMCA offers challenging and meaningful full-time positions with unique career development, leadership and mentorship opportunities. Here are some highlights:

  • Comprehensive orientation: including a 2-day overnight session at YMCA Camp Cedar Glen

  • Youth Advisory Committee: along with the YMCA’s Board provide governance for the YMCA

  • YMCA’s Youth Portfolio Task Force: an intergenerational group mandated to review the youth strategy

  • YMCA Youth Change Agents: employees and volunteers can represent the YMCA at important global events, conferences and training

  • Child and Family Development Mentorship Programs: for employees in Child Care who wish to pursue a career in management

  • YMCA positions are posted online and on Eluta as well as on other selected job search sites  


Building Healthy Communities


Melanie Laflamme, Sr. Vice President of Human Resources and Organizational Development, recognizes that the YMCA grows as an organization thanks to our dedicated staff:
“You bring your heart and soul to work in making a difference in the lives of others and the health of our communities every day. We try to reciprocate that generosity of spirit through upgrading and enhancing our Human Resources policies, benefits, and compensation.”

In turn, youth value the YMCA as a place to grow. Being selected as one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People provides us with feedback that against national standards, our practices and programs are considered progressive, inclusive and youth-friendly. At the YMCA, we believe that by providing young people with a strong and healthy foundation, we are positively impacting their future.

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