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Accelerate Their Potential: The Barrett Youth Accelerator Fund

Support equity-deserving youth in pursuing their education, gaining essential life and career skills, and accessing key opportunities.

Meet the Youth

Watch to see how youth accelerate their potential through vital programs at the Y.

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Current Fund Initiatives

  • Expansion of the YMCA Black Achievers Mentorship Program to reach more regions of the GTA
  • Increased newcomer and refugee youth groups and internships
  • Youth for Entrepreneurship program in more regions of Canada
  • Development of an innovative, online career exploration game to help education-disconnected youth re-engage with their futures 
  • Expansion of financial literacy programming for youth across YMCA of Greater Toronto youth programs, including for young people in our youth shelter and transitional housing programs.

About The Barrett Youth Accelerator Fund

The Barrett Family Foundation has invested $10 million into this fund, and challenges visionary philanthropists, businesses, and foundations to join them by doubling it to $20 million over the next five years. 

Igniting the full potential of youth to overcome urgent challenges requires bold collective action. Help accelerate their potential.

Help Double the Fund

Your contribution can ignite a brighter future for countless youth, helping us reach our goal to double the fund, and meet the soaring need for vital youth programs and initiatives in the GTA and across the country. 

Donate now and make a difference or get in touch to explore what's most meaningful to you.

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Explore How You Can Help

Stay informed and get involved. 


Leave your contact details to receive updates and opportunities to help us meet the Barrett Youth Accelerator Fund challenge from Renee Beneteau, Vice President, Philanthropy, YMCA of Greater Toronto.


This contact form is for philanthropy-related inquiries. To contact the Y about program participation related inquiries, please email us at memberservices@ymcagta.org. 


What initiatives are you interested in learning more about? Check all that apply.

Transparency and Accountability

Your donation goes directly to programs that support our youth. We are committed to transparency and will provide regular updates on the measured impact of your generous contributions.