The YMCA of Greater Toronto announced Wednesday that its research shows strong support for introduction of YMCA programs and services in North Dufferin.

The research, part of a process initiated by the YMCA at the request of the municipalities of Amaranth, Melancthon, Mono, Mulmur, Shelburne and Southgate in April, included a telephone survey conducted on behalf of the YMCA which found that 89 per cent of area ¡residents support the location of YMCA programs and services in the region.

"This strong level of support extends across municipalities, age groups and genders," the 'Y' said in a press release, which noted the survey was conducted by LeisurePlan International Inc., "an experienced and independent research company that has worked on similar studies with the YMCA. The methodology was the same as that used in other surveys of this nature."

More than 2,500 telephone calls were made on a random basis across the region to achieve the required sample and the desired level of confidence in the results.

The survey also tested a number of sites within the region as possible locations for a YMCA facility.

Among these sites, land in the vicinity of the Centre Dufferin Recreation Complex in Shelburne was favoured by a wide margin because of its convenient location.

"The YMCA is very encouraged by the survey results," said Steve Boone, Senior Vice president, Asset Development, for the YMCA of Greater Toronto. "This significant level of community support enables us to move to the next stage of our research in assessing the region as a candidate for YMCA programs and services."

In coming weeks the YMCA hopes to enter into dis- cussions with the six municipalities in order to explore possible partnership models.

The YMCA of Greater Toronto is a charity connecting with more than 400,000 people at 235 locations across an area, including the City of Toronto plus Dufferin, Durham, Halton, Peel and York. In each location the YMCA works to build strong children, strong families and strong communities.

Since 1853, the 'Y' has been promoting positive values that build spirit, mind and body.

Mirroring the region's diversity, the YMCA welcomes everyone regardless of their background, experiences or circumstances. Through the YMCA Strong Kids campaign, it strives to ensure that no one is turned away because of an inability to pay.

The YMCA, in partnership with more than 250 organizations and over 3,500 volunteers, offers a variety of programs responding to the needs of the community, including employment, education and newcomer programs, youth outreach, health, fitness and recreation, youth in need of housing, International programs, child care, and camps.