It’s spring break in Edmonton, and a north end YMCA is a hive of activity.
Castle Downs Family YMCA has been operating in the north of our city for the past 17 years. With more than 6,000 members, all of the YMCA’s profits go back into the community.
Spring break campers at the Castle Downs Family YMCA. (John Robertson/CBC)
With a pool, gymnasium, childcare facility and dozens of programs, YMCA manager Karen Neff said there’s something for everyone at the centre, making it a hub of the community.
Those looking for classes, schedules or upcoming events can look on the YMCA’s website, or even download the MINDBODY app.
YMCA personal trainer Nour Shamseddin.
“We’re a very diverse, community-oriented facility,” Neff said. “We have everyone from newborns all the way up to seniors. We have all ability levels as well.
“Everyone can come, regardless of their ability to pay. Everybody has the ability to come to the YMCA, be part of the programs here, to learn to swim [and] to have those life skills to get healthier.”
Runners can see the newly-renovated pool as they sweat it out.
Personal trainer Nour Shamseddin said it’s that diversity that makes coming to work every day such a pleasure.
“I love what I do here,” Shamseddin said. “it is awesome, it is diverse. Everyone is included.”
The MindBody App has all the Castle Downs classes and schedules.
Spring break also means regular host Adrienne Lamb is away. John Robertson teamed up with video producer Rick Bremness to deliver this week’s show.
Check the side bar for a look back at some of John and Rick’s other spring break adventures.
John Robertson struggles to lift weights.
