The Academy community is gearing up for our exchange fundraising event – This Thursday!
Mar. 8th, 2012 – YEC Cold Weather Workshop
On Wednesday March 7, 2012, the YMCA Academy students who will be participating on the Youth Exchange Canada program to Ouje-Bougoumou, Quebec trekked to Mountain Equipment Coop, MEC for short, for a mini workshop on how to stay dry and warm in colder weather climates. The workshop was lead by one of MEC’s super-employees, Darryl Fraser, an avid outdoor photographer who knows first hand what it takes to stay dry and warm in cold climates.
During our visit Darryl discussed the importance of layering in cold climates. We learned about the importance of moisture control with the base layer so that the skin stays dry, the insulation the mid layer provides, and the many types of outer layers from waterproof-breathables to rain-wear and soft shells. It was especially interesting to learn about the amazing properties of Merino wool such as being able to absorb three times its weight in moisture and being very “stink” resistant.
Check out the rest of the pictures on our Facebook Page!
Visit the Youth Exchanges Canada Website
Visit the Mountain Equipment Co-op Website
Nov. 23nd, 2011 – Peace Medallion Awards Pics
On Tuesday, November 22nd, the Central YMCA hosted the Peace Medallion Awards, a ceremony to recognize outstanding leaders who inspire and impact the lives of people in their community and around the world by creating a more peaceful environment. Academy student Grant Goodman was the co-Master of Ceremonies for the evening, and fellow students Brianna Gillen, Clayton Dimech and Jamie Anderson were on hand volunteering for the evening. Students also put together a video as part of the evening’s entertainment, which we will be posting soon.
This year, the YMCA is celebrating its 27th anniversary of Peace Week, which runs from November 19-26. The week includes a variety of peace-related activities to teach children, youth and adults about the many dimensions of peace such as tolerance, inclusiveness, caring, respect and responsibility for others.
Check out the rest of the pictures on our Facebook Page!
Check out the YMCA of Greater Toronto’s Peace Week Website
Oct. 31st, 2011 – Halloween for Hunger Campaign
On Friday, October 28th, the YMCA Academy students participated in ‘Halloween for Hunger’, a food drive initiative by Free the Children, with the goal of supporting local food banks. Academy staff and students collected over 200 non-perishable food items. Students who participated were able to ‘buy out’ of their 4th period classes to participate in a teachers vs. students dodgeball game. The teachers were no match for the spirited students, who managed to beat them in all three games. The food items collected will be brought to the local firehall by the ‘Me to We’ club students.
Check out the rest of the pictures on our Facebook Page!
Oct. 26th, 2011 – Open Studio: Various Projects
It was truly an open studio today in the art room at the Academy! Eight artists were busy at work on a variety of projects including acrylic painting, Japanese calligraphy, beading, stenciling, painting pumpkins, pottery designing and costume-making (oh, and a math culminating project). Open Studio runs every Wednesday from 4 – 5pm in the art or math room. Drop by, say hello and be creative!
Check out the rest of the pictures on our Facebook Page!