YMCA Leaders of the Americas Address the Impact of U.S. Executive Orders on Communities and YMCA Operations
On February 13, the Latin American and Caribbean Alliance of YMCAs (YMCA LAC), in collaboration with the Border Coalition of YMCAs and YMCA Canada, hosted a virtual dialogue with over 140 YMCA leaders from across the Americas. The discussion focused on how recent U.S. Executive Orders are changing the overall landscape and could impact communities and YMCA operations beyond media narratives.
Antonio Merino, CEO of YMCA LAC, facilitated the event, emphasising that this was not a political forum but a platform for YMCA leaders to listen to each other, reflect, empathise, and foster resilience.
Jessica Nkongolo, Manager, Youth & Global Initiatives of YMCA Canada, shared insights into the economic shifts driven by potential tariffs that may affect YMCAs in Canada. She reaffirmed YMCA Canada’s dedication to providing safe spaces and support systems for vulnerable communities while reiterating their commitment to continued collaboration with YMCAs across the Americas.
A panel featuring Todd Tibbits, President & CEO of YMCA San Diego; Óscar Velasco, CEO of YMCA México; and Valeria Ruiz, Migration Coordinator of YMCA México shared changing dynamics in the U.S. and Mexico, emphasising border communities. Panelists highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration across borders and secure funding for critical border initiatives, humanitarian assistance, legal support, and workforce integration for individuals and families navigating new realities.
Alveiro Valencia, CEO of YMCA Colombia, discussed the economic impact on international cooperation and support for community programs, noting the potential impact on YMCA grassroots initiatives.
Danilo Mejía, CEO of YMCA Honduras, discussed the economic pressures affecting Central American communities and voiced concerns that policy changes and massive deportations could devastate fragile institutions and social services, leading to more poverty and migration. They underscored the YMCA’s dedication to serving communities despite funding shifts, focusing on grassroots engagement and sustainable impact.
As policies shift and challenges emerge, YMCAs remain steadfast in their mission to provide safe spaces, uplift youth, and support communities in meaningful ways. By working together, YMCA leaders build bridges and connect communities, ensuring a strong support system where hope, dignity, solidarity, and resilience continue to thrive.
A panel featuring Todd Tibbits, President & CEO of YMCA San Diego; Óscar Velasco, CEO of YMCA México; and Valeria Ruiz, Migration Coordinator of YMCA México shared changing dynamics in the U.S. and Mexico, emphasising border communities. Panelists highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration across borders and secure funding for critical border initiatives, humanitarian assistance, legal support, and workforce integration for individuals and families navigating new realities.
Alveiro Valencia, CEO of YMCA Colombia, discussed the economic impact on international cooperation and support for community programs, noting the potential impact on YMCA grassroots initiatives.
Danilo Mejía, CEO of YMCA Honduras, discussed the economic pressures affecting Central American communities and voiced concerns that policy changes and massive deportations could devastate fragile institutions and social services, leading to more poverty and migration. They underscored the YMCA’s dedication to serving communities despite funding shifts, focusing on grassroots engagement and sustainable impact.
As policies shift and challenges emerge, YMCAs remain steadfast in their mission to provide safe spaces, uplift youth, and support communities in meaningful ways. By working together, YMCA leaders build bridges and connect communities, ensuring a strong support system where hope, dignity, solidarity, and resilience continue to thrive.
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