Every YMCA story begins with people. Families who find connection, children who discover confidence, and communities that grow stronger together. The new YMCA in Barrie will carry those stories forward, stories shaped by generations of shared memories, meaningful experiences, and a deep sense of belonging.

For the Schroeter family, the founders of Napoleon, that story begins decades ago, when the YMCA became more than a place to play — it became a place that shaped who they are today.

Chris’ Reason Y: A Place That Helped Build Us

“The YMCA has been part of our family’s story for generations,” says Chris Schroeter, Co-CEO of Napoleon. “My dad spent many hours playing squash with friends at the Barrie Y, and my mom was a proud member of the Y’s Menettes back in 1974 for about 2 to 3 years. The Menettes were a women’s auxiliary group that supported the Barrie YMCA and the community through fundraising. Their involvement helped shape our connection to the Y long before my brother and I ever stepped through its doors.”

Growing up, the Schroeter brothers spent countless hours at the YMCA. While their parents worked tirelessly to build Napoleon, the Y became their second home, their summer babysitter, their playground, and even their classroom.

“It’s where my brother and I learned to swim, battled on the basketball court, and smashed squash balls with all the energy two young boys could muster,” Chris remembers.

Those hours at the Y did more than fill their days. They sparked a lifelong love for sport, taught the value of teamwork, and instilled the importance of community. “The volunteers and staff were always incredible,” Chris shares. “They were kind, supportive, and committed to making the YMCA a welcoming place for every child.”

Looking back, Chris says he now realizes just how vital the YMCA was to their family’s journey. Its affordability gave their parents peace of mind and the freedom to focus on growing their business, knowing their kids were safe, active, and surrounded by positive role models.

Giving Back to the Place That Gave So Much

Now, decades later, the Schroeter family is paying it forward.

“Supporting the new YMCA in Barrie is more than a donation - it’s a thank you,” Chris says. “It’s our way of honouring the role the Y played in our journey and ensuring future generations have the same opportunities to grow, play, and thrive.”

Their support will bring the new Napoleon Gymnasium to life. A multi-use space designed for youth leagues, drop-in sports, fitness classes, and community events.

A Legacy That Lives On

Napoleon’s generosity is a cornerstone in the $20 million community campaign that will help close the funding gap for this $70 million project. Partners like Napoleon make it possible for the YMCA to keep fees affordable, expand subsidies, and ensure no one is turned away due to financial need.

For the YMCA, Napoleon’s support is more than bricks and mortar. It’s an investment in families, in children who need a safe space, and in seniors who need connection.

“Napoleon has become one of the largest employers in our community. We are honoured that they have chosen to invest in the YMCA, a place that helped shape their story,” says Jill Tettmann, CEO of the YMCA of Simcoe Muskoka. “They’re building more than a gymnasium, they’re building opportunity, health, and community for generations.”

Beyond the gym, community support helps expand program subsidies, ensuring the YMCA can offer sliding-scale fees, accessible drop-in services, and targeted support for youth and families who need them most. Those are tangible outcomes that improve lives every day.  

The New YMCA in Barrie: A Once-in-a-Generation Project

The new YMCA in Barrie, now under construction at 535 Bayview Drive, will be a 77,000-square-foot Centre of Community designed to serve more than 8,000 people across Barrie and Simcoe County. Opening in 2027, the $70 million project will feature:

• A full aquatics centre and swimming programs for all ages.
• A gymnasium and indoor track for fitness, recreation, and community gatherings.
• Youth transitional housing with 12 units, offering safe and supportive accommodations.
• Health partnerships with RVH to deliver cancer and cardiac rehabilitation programs.
• Accessible, intergenerational spaces where families, seniors, newcomers, and youth can connect.

This YMCA will be more than a fitness facility; it will be a community lifeline. And it’s only possible because of strong partnerships with government, families, and local businesses like Napoleon.

Join Napoleon: Share Your Reason Y

The Schroeter family’s reason Y is one of gratitude. What’s yours?

Every gift, whether big or small, creates ripples of impact:

• Subsidized swimming lessons for children.

• Affordable memberships for families.

• Wellness programs that help seniors stay connected.

• A safe second home for youth, just as it was for Chris and Stephen decades ago.

You can share your reason Y and join this legacy:

• Donate: Explore giving options at 100ReasonsY.ca.

• Sponsor: Contact 100ReasonsY@sm.ymca.ca to learn about naming opportunities.

• Share: Post your story on social media with #100ReasonsY to inspire others.
  

Together, we’re not just building a new YMCA. We’re building belonging, opportunity, and community.