YMCA of Greater Toronto recognized as one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers for 2026

Toronto – February 24, 2026 – The YMCA of Greater Toronto is honoured to be recognized as one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers for 2026 – marking the 12th time the charity has earned this distinction.  

This year, some of the reasons included:  

• YMCA of Greater Toronto launched a leadership development program for Black employees, designed in consultation with the organization's Black experience staff advisory committee – the program creates a diverse pipeline for leadership roles, offering participants the opportunity to customize a learning plan, engage with leadership assessments, and attend a series of leadership workshops and networking events 
• YMCA of Greater Toronto updates a mental health resource booklet for employees annually, containing information on the organization's benefits and resources, as well as links to culturally-relevant mental health supports – employees can also request sessions with mental health professionals who have similar lived experience through the organization's employee assistance program 

“Being named a top diversity employer for another year, reaffirms the impact our teams make in fostering spaces where everyone can belong,” said Lesley Davidson, President & CEO, YMCA of Greater Toronto. “We know Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging work is an ongoing process, and this recognition strengthens our resolve to continue building a community where everybody, regardless of background or identity, can reach their full potential.” 

In addition to being among Canada’s Best Diversity Employers (2026), the YMCA of Greater Toronto was also recognized as a Greater Toronto Area Top Employer (2026) and one of Canada’s Greenest Employers (2025).  

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 more than 170 years, the YMCA of Greater Toronto has provided opportunities for people to reach their potential 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 about 500 locations in the Greater Toronto Area, the Y is a leading charity that helps everyone shine.