​As a young child growing up in a rough neighbourhood in Montreal, the YMCA played a significant role for Wagner. And during his University years he found himself involved, again, with a YMCA. This time as a volunteer and staff member. His involvement at the YMCA spanned almost 15 years with his focus on youth, health and fitness, and community development. Wagner's passion for addressing the needs of the community spawned the creation of a Teen Centre when programs for youth aged 13-17 did not exist at that time.