YMCA of Greater Toronto Recognized as one of Canada’s Greenest Employers 14 Years in a Row

Toronto – April 16, 2024 – The YMCA of Greater Toronto is proud to be selected as one of Canada's Greenest Employers for the 14th consecutive year

The Y was recognized for its efforts across locations including its unique 263-acre YMCA Cedar Glen Outdoor Centre in the Oak Ridges Moraine, just 45 minutes north of Toronto:

• Along with the addition of green roofs to its urban locations (including one of the largest with public access), YMCA of Greater Toronto maintains a 1.6-hectare property at the YMCA Cedar Glen location, which includes a large certified organic garden, two honeybee apiaries, facilities to produce maple syrup, and a greenhouse built from recycled and reused materials -- a new 89 space daycare centre was recently constructed, providing younger generations the chance for an early, hands-on understanding of nature and outdoor play

YMCA Cedar Glen employees also host groups for day and overnight trips year-round, offer day camp programs, and operate Forest School and Open Outdoors programs to connect future generations to nature.

“Climate change is something we all need to be focused on. Our charity recognizes the increasing challenges of accelerating economic, social, and climatic change that face our communities, and we continue to implement initiatives to minimize our environmental impact by reducing our pollution and enhancing our natural environment,” says Lesley Davidson, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Toronto. “We know that our collective focus on the environment can make a difference and that doing our part is especially important to young employees.”

The YMCA of Greater Toronto reports its progress in an annual Sustainability Report.

In addition to being among Canada’s Greenest Employers this year, the YMCA of Greater Toronto was also recognized as one of one of Greater Toronto’s Top Employers (2024).

About the YMCA of Greater Toronto  

The YMCA of Greater Toronto is a charity that ignites the potential in people, helping them grow, lead and give back to their communities. For 170 years, the YMCA of Greater Toronto has provided opportunities for people to shine through a variety of programs and services including health and fitness, licensed child care, camps, employment and immigrant services, education and training, and services for youth, families and seniors. Promoting equity and boosting well-being across more than 460 locations in the Greater Toronto Area, the Y is a leading charity that helps everyone shine. 

More information on the YMCA of Greater Toronto’s comprehensive sustainability strategy can be found in its annual Sustainability Report at www.ymcagta.org/green.