Building a Stronger Foundation for Childhood Wellbeing
Wellchild Niagara is a growing not-for-profit organization serving children, youth and families throughout St. Catharines and the Niagara Region.
We believe children benefit from opportunities to slow down, move, explore, create and develop a deeper understanding of themselves. Our holistic approach brings together mindfulness, movement, nature and play to nurture emotional regulation, resilience, confidence and belonging.
We are building more than a collection of programs. We are working toward a future where accessible, preventative wellbeing support is woven into the everyday lives of Niagara’s children, youth and families.
Our Growth Journey
Wellchild Niagara is in an important stage of early growth. As we establish our organization within the Niagara Region, we are developing strong governance, responsive programming, sustainable community relationships and the systems needed to support long-term impact.
Our vision for the future includes expanded nature and forest programming, mindfulness sessions in schools, family wellness opportunities and leadership pathways for youth.
Over time, we hope to establish a community hub where children, youth and families can access holistic wellness programs, practical resources and meaningful community connections in one welcoming place.
Meet The Founder
Rachelle Gibbs | Founder, Child & Youth Yoga and Meditation Teacher, RECE
With more than two decades of experience in early learning, family support and educator mentorship, Rachelle Gibbs brings a thoughtful, heart-centred approach to every space she holds, blending professional expertise with mindfulness, nature-based learning and social-emotional development.
Our Values
Play Well
We honour play as an essential part of childhood and a powerful way to inspire joy, creativity, exploration and growth.
Be Well
We nurture lifelong wellbeing by creating opportunities for mindfulness, movement, self-awareness and meaningful connection.
Do Well
We encourage young people to recognize their strengths, contribute their ideas and create positive change within their communities.
Our Pillars
Our programs help children develop emotional awareness, compassion and practical strategies for navigating challenging moments.
Mindfulness
We make thoughtful, community-minded choices that respect the natural environment and encourage long-term stewardship amongst children and youth.
Sustainability
Strong relationships are at the heart of our work. We foster belonging through community collaboration, inclusion and shared experiences.
Community
Why We Exist
Children are growing up in a fast-paced world with fewer opportunities to pause, play and connect. Too often, support becomes available only after a child is already overwhelmed or in crisis.
Wellchild Niagara takes a proactive, strengths-based approach to children’s wellbeing.
Our developmentally appropriate programs combine mindful movement, nature exploration, creative play and meaningful connection to help children develop:
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Emotional awareness and regulation
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Confidence and self-awareness
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Resilience during difficult moments
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A stronger sense of belonging
We believe early support matters. Every child deserves practical lifelong skills that help them feel grounded, capable and connected.
Mission
Our mission is to foster the holistic development of Niagara's youth by providing high-quality programs rooted in mindfulness, movement, nature and play - supporting the social, emotional and physical wellbeing of children and youth in Niagara.
Vision
Our vision is a thriving, inclusive Niagara Region where every child and youth feels supported, connected and empowered to live a healthy, balanced and meaningful life.
Help Shape What Comes Next
Wellchild Niagara is growing with intention, guided by our values, informed by community needs and strengthened by the people who believe in our mission.
Join a program, volunteer your time, support our work or partner with us as we build a healthier and more connected future for children and youth across Niagara.