NEWS RELEASE
YMCA
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Creating Connections, a community event series for newcomers to learn about community programs and services, is back for its second year in Barrie.
Powered by a partnership between the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, Barrie Police Service, and the Barrie Public Library, and supported by funding from Public Safety Canada’s Building Safer Communities Fund, this free series aims to introduce newcomers to community services and create a space where they can make connections to programs and to each other.
The program includes three sessions – one at each partner location – centred around the themes of Spring, Community and Community Helpers. With family story times, interactive games, and opportunities to learn more about community, library, and police services, the program is a powerful example of how building partnerships has enabled organizations to have a greater impact.
The first of the three sessions was held on April 10 at YMCA Immigrant Services in the Bayfield Mall. Community members, newcomers, and their families are invited to attend the next two sessions in May and June. Session two will take place at the Holly Community Library on May 1 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., and session three will be held at the Barrie Police Services Headquarters on June 5 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Everyone is welcome at the free event series. Registration is not required.
“Through our Immigrant Services programs, the YMCA provides settlement services and English language training, but this collaborative program demonstrates the heart of our work: helping newcomers feel welcomed and supported to take part in community life both socially and culturally,” says Jill Tettmann, CEO, YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka.
“On our own, we may have a slightly limited effect, but together we are this powerful force. We can draw on each other’s resources, knowledge and expertise to create a really beautiful package that we can then present to the community,” says Sylvia Mueller, Information Barrie co-ordinator at the Barrie Public Library.
Shannon Calladine, special constable, Operational Support Division – Community Safety and Well Being Unit, Barrie Police Service, echoed the sentiment: “Programs like these help strengthen our community by showcasing how much more we can do when we work together. By demonstrating collaboration in action, it encourages others to join together to help our community get stronger.”
The YMCA, which spearheaded the partnership, is excited to develop future programs that build off the success of Creating Connections. If you think your organization might be a great partnership fit, please visit their website at www.ymcasm.ca/Partnerships for more information. To learn more about the YMCA’s Immigrant Services and its program offerings, please visit https://ymcaofsimcoemuskoka.ca/immigrant-services/.
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