Global engagement has been part of who we are since day one. We see ourselves as members of an interconnected world, with a responsibility to advance equity and social inclusion for all, regardless of where you live. By working cooperatively and collaboratively at an international level, we can leverage the global expertise of our partners and YMCAs to have meaningful impact at a local level, especially for young people.
YMCA-to-YMCA Partnerships
24 Canadian YMCAs are engaged with 16 YMCAs internationally across 14 countries located in Africa, Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
Our Shared Commitments
We are committed to collaborating on:
Shared Social Issues
Our national work is strengthened through our connection to the global YMCA network. Community impact in Canada and around the world is amplified when we advocate and engage on common issues that have local, national, and global dimensions. These include community and wellbeing; a meaningful future of work; a sustainable planet; and a just world.
Leadership Development and Governance
Strong and healthy communities need strong, healthy, and sustainable YMCAs. We support the strengthening of YMCAs globally through locally driven initiatives focused on governance, leadership development, and diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a particular commitment to advancing youth voice and leadership.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Thriving communities are equitable and reflect the diversity of their members. We support initiatives that allow young people and historically marginalized, oppressed, and underprivileged communities to have a voice and leadership in decision-making processes.
Innovation
The world is in a state of constant change and community needs are continually shifting. We are committed to critically evaluating our current approaches; testing our assumptions on an ongoing basis; and collaborating on new, or adapting existing, initiatives to be anticipatory and forward-looking for lasting impact.
Our International Safeguarding Policy
YMCA Canada places human dignity at the centre of our work. At the heart of YMCA Canada’s efforts to build a just, sustainable, equitable and inclusive world is its engagement with marginalized communities. We also recognize the particular responsibility we have to similarly promote human dignity and social justice within our own organization and maintain a safe and respectful workplace.
Read our International Safeguarding Policy
