International YMCA

In 2007, we have moved closer to our Y-to-Y partnership with the Dominican Republic.  Recently, due to the devastation that Tropical Storm Noel had on the Dominican Republic, all of our YMCA branches and childcare sites have collected food and clothing to send to our partner YMCA.  Once received in the DR, the boxes are opened by their YMCA Teen Leaders, sorted and distributed to the various barrios in the area where the YMCA serves families and kids.

As a way to educate young people on the cultural connection of our YMCA’s and our worldwide mission, we have involved our Teen Advisory Board in our Dominican Republic partnership.  As a result, our teens have begun to communicate with the Dominican Republic Teen Leaders.  These teens are working towards a goal to travel there in the summer of 2008, to participate in service learning projects with the YMCA and the communities that they serve.  Our TAB is seeking funding possibilities and will be holding fundraisers at their local branches to help support this trip. 

In an effort to celebrate our International movement and the rich cultures that the YMCA serves locally and globally, we will be holding at many branches and childcare sites, a YMCA International Day, on Wednesday, the 30th of January.  During this day, the branches and childcare sites will have various activities offered: all food, activities, art projects and family events will revolve around an international theme.  Some branches will spotlight sports from other countries and have a Parent’s Night Out with an international theme.

Stop by and check it out or ask your local YMCA for their schedule of activities.

As we move into 2008, we work to better educate and involve our members in our international initiatives.  Many branches have established International Clubs, so that members with an interest can get involved on the branch level and learn about the work that we do in other countries, join international committees, and help to create opportunities for greater international connections.  We invite all interested adults, teens, and families to join us.  Each of your YMCA’s has an International Representative.  Ask who that is and get involved in going global!

Suncoast YMCA and International YMCA