The
international work of the Canadian YMCA was initiated in
1889 when the International Services Division was established.
The initial orientation of this effort was to extend the
work of the YMCA throughout the world. The Canadian and
American YMCAs began a “Volunteer Corps” that
over the years dispatched some 700 YMCA professionals to
work overseas for periods of up to 30 years in support of
the development of indigenous leadership.
Since
1970, the YMCA’s international development efforts
have been channeled predominantly through partnerships between
local YMCAs in Canada and YMCAs overseas. Over the past
25 years, the number of partnerships and relationships has
expanded to involve over 80% of local Canadian associations
with over 40 countries overseas.
It
has always been part of the YMCA mission to participate
in international work. The values held by YMCA leaders and
in the organization, speak to the importance of developing
a global awareness and being active in making connections
with the YMCA family around the globe. It could be said
that Canadian YMCAs are living out the YMCA mission when
they participate in international programming.
EVENTS
The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka will be hosting various activities and events in celebration of the following International Theme Days or Weeks throughout
the year
Stand Up & Speak Out International Day for the
Eradication of Poverty - October 16-18, 2009
