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Registration is Closed
The Second Tracks Program is an exciting initiative designed to introduce local youth to skiing and snowboarding, fostering engagement, outdoor activity, and mental wellness. Developed through a partnership between the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, North Shore Ltd., and Blue Mountain, this program aims to create opportunities for youth in Collingwood and surrounding areas to enjoy winter sports. By breaking down barriers, Second Tracks offers participants a comprehensive, inclusive, and fun-filled experience at no cost!
Each participant will be provided complimentary nightly lift tickets, equipment rentals, dinner and round-trip transportation.
Participants will undergo a lesson each night and will have the opportunity to learn alongside Second Track volunteers.
The program is available to all who wish to participate; you do not have to be a current YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka member. Priority will be given to those living in Collingwood, the Blue Mountains, and throughout the Township of Clearview who have had little or no access to skiing or snowboarding. Participants must be between the ages of 12 and 16, and most of all, they must be willing to try new things and have some fun!
The Second Track Pilot Program will launch in January 2025 and offer two four-week sessions to a maximum of 50 participants each session.
Round-trip transportation from the Collingwood YMCA will be provided, departing at 4:00 and returning at approximately 8:30.
Getting your children to go outside and be physically active can be difficult in the best of times, and it can be even harder during the cold winter months.
This program will provide youth the opportunity to learn an exciting new sport, to be active, and to socialize with other kids, all of which will greatly improve their mental and physical health.
Among the greatest barriers to providing children with winter activity opportunities is cost. Winter sports aren’t cheap, especially skiing and snowboarding. This program was set up to combat this barrier and to provide youth who may not have had a previous opportunity to try skiing/snowboarding a chance to learn the sport and to do so in a safe, accessible, and encouraging environment.
Kids find an outlet to get outdoors, off their phones and involved in a new challenge that will ultimately improve their mental health.
Science supports what we all know about mental health.
The barriers to participate need to be eliminated.
The YMCA gains new youth members while expanding corporate reach into a highly concentrated pool of decision makers and potential donors.
North Shore LTD, Blue Mountain, Rossignol and other partners can channel its charitable efforts into its target market and help bridge the gap between the locals and private ski club members.
Skiers feel good about donating equipment to local youth and be able to get a tax receipt.
Blue Mountain gains new future skiers and potentially new employees while supporting the local community.
We are confident in the quality of our equipment and rentals, and we stand behind them with a quality guarantee. If you are not completely satisfied with your rental experience, we will do everything we can to make it right.
Second Tracks will measure the short and long-term effectiveness of this program by tracking participation year to year, satisfaction levels, engaging youth and families in evaluations and suggested improvements. This will provide sound data for sponsors and funders and allow evidenced based decision making. Second Tracks will also measure youth and family engagement in volunteering for the program in the future.
YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka
The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka is a charity dedicated to strengthening the foundations of our community. We serve over 50,000 people across Simcoe, Muskoka and Parry Sound, with a focus on helping children and families reach their full potential. Through a wide range of programs, the YMCA provides essential services addressing mental health, youth development, fitness, and community engagement. In Collingwood specifically, the YMCA plays a crucial role by offering programs such as swim lessons, day camps, and health and fitness opportunities. These initiatives empower families, children, and individuals to lead healthier, more active lives while promoting inclusion and community connection. With a commitment to financial assistance, the YMCA ensures that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can access these life-changing services.
North Shore Ltd. A local company (www.northshore.ltd) specializing in supply and installation of building products. The owner, John Mealey is a Y kid from Sault Ste Marie and was former member of the Canadian Ski Team. John was past volunteer Chairman of Alpine Ontario, which is the Provincial Sport Organization for alpine skiing and was a member of a special Governance Task Force Committee to consolidate all clubs and Provinces to be compliant with the National Sport Policy. He also has extensive experience (20+ yrs) in Commercial Finance.
John is seeking to be involved in a durable charitable cause that can really move the needle for local families to encourage access to a sport that is so much fun!
Blue Mountain Resorts, Blue has been established since 1941 and has developed into one of the largest resorts in North America (by skier visits per acre). Blue has been a major economic driver in the Collingwood area for years and is thrilled to be a part of this initiative that is well aligned with managements desire to provide a lasting connection between the local community and the resort. For more information, pls visit www.bluemountain.ca
Rossignol Group. Is an international leading manufacture of sporting equipment. Chris Horan is Executive Vice President of North America and has fully endorsed the program and will be an active member of the Committee. https://www.grouperossignol.com/en/
Later Pizza. Later Pizza serves up our take on New York-style pizza at Endswell Brewery in Collingwood. Whether it’s takeout or dine-in, we bring bold creativity, quality ingredients, and welcoming hospitality for a fresh take on a classic favourite.
Collingwood Blues. (Bus service – info to follow)
Endorsements: The program has received endorsements from the Canadian Ski Council and Alpine Ontario Alpin.
For more information, please contact any of the below Committee Members:
Second Tracks
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