YMCA OFFERS JANUARY LITERACY COURSES IN CUSTOMER SERVICE, RETAIL MATH AND SMARTPHONES

MUSKOKA — If your New Year’s resolution is to sharpen your learning and literacy skills, the YMCA has you covered.

Step into 2026 with confidence and new skills, starting this month.

“We’re excited to offer three hands-on workshops designed to empower you in your personal and professional life. Find the one that’s right for you and take the next step on your journey,” they say.

Customer Service:

Build core skills in communication, active listening, and empathy to handle any customer interaction.

When: Wednesdays, Jan. 21 to Feb. 25, 10 a.m. to noon.

Where: AGILEC, 195 Wellington St, Bracebridge

Retail Math:

Sharpen your cash handling and fundamental math skills in this practical, 4-week course, preparing you for success in retail environments.

When: Tuesdays & Thursdays, Jan 20 – Feb 12, 10 a.m. to noon.

Where: AGILEC, 195 Wellington St, Bracebridge

Intro to Smartphones (Android):

Learn to navigate your device with ease in this friendly, supportive class.

No smartphone is required; they will provide training devices for you.

When: Tuesdays & Thursdays, Jan. 20 – Feb. 12, 1 to 3 p.m.

Where: YMCA, 101 Centennial Dr, Gravenhurst

South Muskoka workshops

Dickson, who has been at her job, says she has run workshops in the South Muskoka area for adults looking to upgrade their skills, or learn new ones.

Her classes range from G1 Knowledge Test Prep, Intro to Computers, Customer Service, Foundations of Food Service,  Food Handlers Certificate Prep to name a few, there are many more.

She also works online with students and in-person in small groups.
Dickson’s workshops can be found here at the following link: https://www.ymcaofsimcoemuskoka.ca/learning-services/#1521568759779-5b345934-e251
I’ve been in this role for nearly 2 years this April, and truly love serving our Community with these valuable worthwhile workshops.

To register, please call (705) 787-0349 ext. 3031 or email muskokalearns@sm.ymca.ca.

Or call Gen Dickson, literacy instructor at the Gravenhurst YMCA, at 705-571-1630; or email her at genevieve.dickson@sm.ymca.ca

Gen Dickson, YMCA literacy instructor in Gravenhurst, has been out lately promoting the Y’s literacy and learning programs, which begin in January in Gravenhurst, Bracebridge and Huntsville. PHOTO Mark Clairmont MuskokaTODAY.com