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A message from the President of the YThe Kelowna Family YMCA-YWCA first opened its doors in 1985 as the Athans Aquatic Centre and since that time has grown to be an independent charity, serving people in spirit, mind and body through wellness, child, youth and family programs. Today, the Y is a multi-service charitable association dedicated to building strong kids, strong families and strong communities which is volunteer-founded, volunteer-based and volunteer-led. The Kelowna Y is a place where families and individuals come to improve their health, learn to swim, care for their families, find a job and give back to their community through volunteering and philanthropy. Y programs and services are founded on inclusiveness, respect and growth in body, mind and spirit, regardless of age, gender, background, ability or financial circumstance. Inclusion and accessibility are paramount at the Y; regardless of age, gender, background, abilities or financial circumstances – the Y is open to everyone. We provide financial assistance to those who cannot afford the full cost of programs and services. While the Y’s mission of service and commitment to community health has not changed over the years, our capacity to offer programs and services to meet the growing needs of our community is limited. Lacking the space to offer vital wellness, youth and family programs, the Kelowna Family YMCA-YWCA has maximized its potential with its current facilities. We have experienced 62% growth in participation over the past 5 years. And, the Kelowna Family YMCA-YWCA has grown to serve the health and wellness needs of over 20,000 people annually; 43% of whom are children and youth. Today, a major expansion of the existing Kelowna Family YMCA-YWCA is needed and will make a significant impact on the health and development of this generation and those to come. After careful assessment of current community needs and realistic projections for future demand, the YMCA-YWCA of the Central Okanagan board of directors endorsed a plan to both invest and raise the required funds to make this project a reality. ~ Randy Schueler |
Meet the Kelowna Family Y Expansion Cabinet |
Anna says that it is her strong belief in the importance of health, wellness and prevention which led her to accept the role as Campaign Chair. “There isn’t an organization out there which better meets the needs of the whole person regardless of age or financial circumstance than the Y. I am proud and privileged to be involved in this project.” |
Randy's involvement with the Y began at the age of thirteen at the Kelowna Family Y when he began volunteering after being encouraged by some of the Lifeguards. The Y was a place where he went to be with friends, and learn leadership skills through his involvement with The Y’s Youth Leadership development program. The Kelowna Family Y eventually became his employer and an important part of his life until graduating university. After completing his BA from Okanagan University College, Randy moved to South Korea and then Singapore where he taught English for Berlitz International for three years. Since returning to Kelowna in 1998 Randy has been busy raising a family, building a business and giving back to the community he is proud to be a part of. The Y came back into his life in 2000 when he was approached to be on the Board of Directors which he was more than happy to do. In his words “This Y always gives more than it takes, it is a place that regardless of age, gender, background, abilities or financial circumstances is open to everyone. Through it’s principles of inclusiveness, caring, respect and responsibility the Y changes peoples lives, it creates leaders, it makes people healthier in spirit, mind and body.” |
Ron has been on the Board of the YMCA-YWCA of the Central Okanagan for 3 years. He serves on the Finance committee and is President-Elect. Through his involvement with the Y Ron has gained a strong appreciation for philanthropy and how important it can be in helping charitable organizations, such as the Y, meet the community’s needs. When the opportunity arose to become involved in the Capital Expansion campaign, Ron was eager to volunteer. He views his investment in time and giving to the capital campaign, as a direct investment in our youth. "An expanded Kelowna Family Y will provide our youth and families with a chance for success they might not have had otherwise." Ron views his involvement in the capital campaign, as an opportunity to make a difference. A further consideration for his involvement is that the Y is all-inclusive. "This allows youth and families from all economic backgrounds to benefit from the Y’s expanded facilities and programs." |
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Tony was a Director and past President of the Central Okanagan Foundation, which manages a philanthropic endowment of over $10 million and has distributed almost $3 million to various charities and community groups in the Okanagan area. Tony is committed to community and is thrilled to be a part of the Kelowna Family Y expansion team. |
“I am passionate about this project! It has been my personal goal to ensure that the Kelowna Family Y continues to meet the needs of families in our community and this expansion project will achieve that well into the future”. |
Campaign Quick LinksCapital Case Book Check out the latest issue of our Values in Action newsletter – Y Donors making a difference. |
Anna Hunt-Binkley is currently serving her third term as School Trustee in the Central Okanagan. Anna and her husband and three boys moved to the Kelowna area in 1991 from the Prairies where she had practiced law for a number of years. Previous to law, Anna had obtained her Bachelor of Nursing and worked in public health. Now she considers herself a strong advocate for students and for health and wellness.
Randy Schueler is a partner with Russell & Associates Insurance and Financial Services Group Inc. He was born and raised in Kelowna and enjoys participating in the activities that make Kelowna such a great place to live, especially spending time with his family, golfing and skiing. 
Ron Stewardson
Nicole Rustad
Tony Stewart
