At YMCA Calgary, JOY isn’t just a feeling, it’s a tradition. As we enter the 5th season of our JOY Day celebrations on December 3, we had the chance to chat with Christy Repchuk, our Director of Fund Development, about the inspiration behind this special day and its lasting impact on our community.
Where did the idea for JOY Day originate?
“We wanted the YMCA’s Giving Tuesday to be more than a day of receiving donations. We wanted to give back, too, to show our gratitude for the support we receive. That’s where the idea of sharing hot cocoa and gifting mugs to donors came from. To us, JOY is about connection, generosity, and saying thank you to those who help make our community healthier and happier.”
Why does YMCA Calgary celebrate JOY?
“JOY Day is about more than raising funds; it’s about the joy we feel when we connect with our members and community. Whether it’s sharing a warm drink or a moment of laughter, it’s a reminder of why we do what we do—to make joy, connections, health and wellness accessible to everyone.”
What does JOY mean to you?
“For me, joy is in the little moments,” Christy reflects. “It’s the smile of a child jumping into a pool, the awe of seeing the mountains on a hike at Camp Chief Hector, or the triumph of solving a tough math problem. JOY is about connection and growth, it fills our cups and inspires us to pass that feeling on to others.”
Where do the funds raised for JOY go?
“We direct the funds to where they’re needed most,” Christy explains. “Our mission is to ensure everyone can access the YMCA, regardless of their financial situation. From early learning to senior programs, financial assistance and youth engagement, we address challenges at every stage of life, always striving to create equitable opportunities for our community. JOY helps us achieve so much every year.”
What’s your favourite part of JOY Day?
“My favorite part is the energy it creates. It’s such a fun day filled with generosity, laughter, and connection. Seeing staff, volunteers, members and our community come together to celebrate and give back. It just makes me happy.”
Thanks for sharing the inspiration behind JOY Day and what it means to you, Christy!
Now, what would JOY Day be without a little action on your end, dear readers. JOY Day is a celebration of kindness, generosity, and community. It’s about turning small moments into big impacts. Whether it’s holding a door, sharing a smile, or giving someone the chance to thrive at the YMCA, we all have a role to play in spreading joy. This holiday season, we want you to think about how you will experience, embrace and elevate the joy people in your community feel.
This Giving Tuesday, join us in spreading JOY. Together, we can make it more than just a word. We can make it a reality for everyone in our community.