The YMCA-YWCA of the Central Okanagan is part of an international organization that operates in more than 130 countries, helping more than 30 million people.  The Kelowna Family Y has a responsibility to our global community and commits funds, time, and support to countries in need. The YMCA–YWCA can play an important role in addressing issues related to community, social and economic development and plans to further develop its international work in coming years.

 

We are presently working with other BC YMCA’s to support education on global and social issues and are currently assisting Ethiopia’s HIV/AIDS Education Program.

 

YMCAs also provide aid in many countries where natural or political emergencies exist.  The YMCA works with the local communities and the local residents to re-build their communities and their lives in crisis situations such as earthquakes, floods and political instability.  The Kelowna Family Y provided financial aid to YMCAs and YWCAs and their respective communities affected by the Asian Tsunami and Hurricane Katrina.