The Heart of the Matter

At YMCA NCR Child Care, we believe that every child deserves a place where they are not just "included," but where they truly belong. Our child care department isn't just a room of children; it is a community of diverse thinkers, movers, and learners.

Inclusion isn’t a policy on a wall for us—it’s the way we greet a child who uses a communication board, the way we adapt our sensory bins for those who experience the world differently, and the way we celebrate the unique milestones of every toddler and preschooler in our care.

Why We are Running

This year, as we lead our department through new transitions and growth, we are reminded that the "Y Way" is about removing barriers. To celebrate Autism Ontario’s 50th Anniversary, we are stepping out from behind the Director’s desk and hitting the pavement for a 5km run.

We are running for the children in our rooms who remind us daily that "different" is beautiful. We are running to support the incredible work Autism Ontario has done for five decades to ensure that families—like the ones at our center—have access to the resources and advocacy they need.

Our Commitment to Inclusion In our child care programs, inclusion means:

• Adaptive Play: Ensuring our "Playing to Learn" curriculum is accessible to neurodivergent learners.

• Expert Support: Partnering with resource consultants to provide the best environment for every child.

• Community: Creating a space where parents feel supported and children feel seen.

Help Us Reach the Finish Line

Our goal is to raise $1500 to support Autism Ontario’s mission. Every dollar stays in our community, helping to fund the programs that make our inclusive classrooms possible.

Please consider donating to our run. Together, we can ensure that the next 50 years are even more inclusive than the last.

"Shine on, and let’s run for a world where everyone belongs!"