From local to global: Community development and the YMCA

Global Teens in Korea

By Megan Boucher

When people think of the YMCA, likely the first word that comes to mind is “community.” Affectionately called “The Y” by many, the YMCA is well-known for its community centers, featuring fitness equipment, activities, and youth programs. What most people likely don’t think of but should is the word “global.” The YMCA not only has locations and programs all over the world, but the organization is also actively involved in community development in those countries. “It’s all about connection” stated Tom Horsley, Senior Vice President – Emeritus for the YMCA. The Y is building community from the ground up and making connections within and in between those communities —from the local communities that are home to Y locations to the global community of which we are all a part. “Connections are in everything we do,” Horsley emphasized. Monica Quill Kusakabe, Director -International Development, added that these connections are not just person to person, but are also community to community, especially with the Y’s global development work. “They’re about how we connect our community here to projects that are happening over there,” she explained. [Read more]