On the grounds of Y Camp Glenburn near the Belleisle River in New Brunswick, there is a young tree called the Tree of Dreams. It commemorates the life of a much loved YMCA-YWCA of Saint John staff member and passionate environmentalist, Leslie Bruce. Each summer, campers cast their hopes and dreams on its branches.
This tree is too young to bear the removal of a branch so one has been taken from an 80 foot hemlock known as the Glenburn Tree instead. From its position outside the dining hall, this tree has watched successive generations of campers grow into outstanding leaders like Leslie. Its canopy is thick enough to keep fifteen people dry during the heaviest of rains.
This branch symbolizes the way that the YMCA nurtures dreams -- by inspiring us in our youth, consoling us in time of challenge, making sacrifices for our benefit, and keeping us rooted throughout our lives.
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