In today’s "Meet the Leaders of Your YMCA" story, we’re thrilled to introduce Chris Lee, General Manager of Saddletowne YMCA. From participant to leader, Chris embodies the spirit of the YMCA with his focus on building connections, fostering growth, and inspiring community engagement.
Hi Chris! Can you tell us about your YMCA journey?
Hi, I’m Chris Lee, General Manager at Saddletowne YMCA. My YMCA journey began in 1999 at the Melcor YMCA at Crowfoot, where I participated in basketball programs, the Leaders in Training course, swim lessons, and drama classes. It was here that my love for sports, especially basketball, took root. I spent countless hours at the Y practicing my skills and connecting with the community.
This passion led me to pursue a degree in Business in Sports and Recreation Management. My journey came full circle in 2017 when I began working for the YMCA as a Youth Director at the Melcor YMCA at Crowfoot.
Since then, I’ve held several roles, including Sport Supervisor at Melcor YMCA, Gray Family Eau Claire YMCA, and Saddletowne YMCA, before moving to Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge. At Shane Homes, I expanded my leadership skills as a Center Manager for Day Camp and Climbing and later as an Experience Manager.
Each step in my career has been a fulfilling chapter of growth, culminating in my current role. It’s truly rewarding to work for an organization so committed to serving people and building healthy communities.
What are your favourite things about the YMCA?
Basketball and weight training are my go-to activities. Basketball has been a lifelong passion, teaching me valuable lessons and shaping my personal and professional growth. Weight training complements this by building physical and mental resilience, keeping me motivated and strong.
What do you believe is most special about the YMCA community?
The YMCA isn’t just a recreation space; it’s a place of connection and support. Whether it’s a drop-in fitness class, a game in the gymnasium, or a chat on the weight floor, there’s a sense of belonging that makes the Y feel like a second home.
Can you share a tip for members to get the most out of their membership?
Try everything! Participate in drop-in fitness classes, use the weight floor, try arts classes or climbing, and join activities in the gymnasium. Engaging in various programs is the best way to stay active, meet new people, and discover what you love most about the community. The more you immerse yourself, the more rewarding your experience will be.
Empowering Youth
Through a wide range of programs and services, YMCA Calgary helps youth build confidence, make meaningful connections and realize their potential. Whether it is in the pride of our Indigenous program youth as they create their first ribbon skirt, the awe of a child climbing their first rock wall during their first session of the Calgary Flames Grade 6 membership, or in the excitement of a drop-in basketball game, we promise there is something for every child and teen here at the YMCA.