Here For All Our Neighbors
At the YMCA of Central Florida, we exist to improve the lives of all of everyone in spirit, mind, and body. Guided by our core values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, and faith, we work alongside people of all ages and from every walk of life.
The YMCA of Central Florida is an inclusive organization open to all. We welcome all people regardless of ability, age, cultural background, ethnicity, faith, gender, gender identity, ideology, income, national origin, race or sexual orientation. The Y believes that, in a diverse world, we are stronger when we are inclusive, when our doors are open to all and when everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
As our Central Florida region continues to rapidly grow and change, we are committed to embrace and celebrate the rich diversity within each other and across the hundreds of distinct neighborhoods, towns and cities we serve so that all feel welcome and all feel they belong at the Y. Below are some of the efforts the Y is undertaking as part of our commitment for all.
GRACE COMMITTEE
Global Relations And Community Engagement (GRACE).
As part of the Y’s longstanding commitment to advance our mission For All, the GRACE Committee champions on-going organizational learning, sharing, change and transformation towards being a welcoming organization where all stakeholders can thrive and reach their full potential.
About Employee Resource Groups
YMCA of Central Florida Employee Resource Groups (henceforth ERGs) are employee-led network groups that seek to provide a space for the support, networking, and development of YMCA professionals from various cultures and/or different experiences. By sharing and leveraging experiences to create community inside and outside the four walls of the Y. Resources and tools position Team Members to advance in their professional career through coaching, mentorship, and networking.
ERGs are Team Member lead groups who share a common focus. Whether it’s gender, ethnicity, religious affiliation, lifestyle, or interest. The ERGs exist to provide support and help in personal or career development and to create a safe space where Team Members can bring their whole selves to the table. Allies may also be invited to join the ERG to support their colleagues.
African-American Resource Network (AARN)
The African-American Resource Network strives to empower and embrace Black team members. By highlighting values and promoting our cultural heritage, we are creating initiatives to promote anti-racism and cultivate quality leadership and educational support. Through a unique approach to cultural advocacy and community outreach, we are elevating black influence in the Central Florida Y.
Asian Pacific Islander Resource Network
The YMCA of Central Florida Asian Pacific Islander ERG is comprised of API team members can bring their whole selves to work and be valued and receive support to reach their fullest potential; a diverse community that affirms the contributions of and supports each individual; a community that celebrates each other and stands up for each other. Ensuring API team members have access to the support and capacity building they need to reach their fullest potential at the Y. Our goal is to advance the development of Asian and Pacific Islanders by empowering their rise in the Movement through advocacy, networking, and mentoring.
Emerging Leaders
The Emerging Leaders ERG is an employee-led network that aims to give YMCA employees from various cultures and/or backgrounds a place for support, networking, and professional growth.
Hispanic Latino Leadership Network
The mission of the Hispanic/Latino ERG is to develop a network of Y team members and promote the cultural diversity and professional development of its members, thereby creating a supportive environment for the Latino/Hispanic community and contributing to the success of YMCA of Central Florida mission.
LGBTQ+ Resource Network
The LGBTQ+ ERG aims to create a brave, inclusive, and affirming environment for all YMCA Team Members and volunteers regardless of biological sex, physical or emotional attraction, and expression of gender identity. We are open to all team members committed to taking a stand to ensure LGBTQ employees are treated equitably.
Women’s Leadership Resource Network
Through education and inspiration, with the support of our allies, we come together to build community and promote the advancement of women in leadership.
Learn More About Our ERGs
GRACE COMMITTEE GUIDING PRINCIPLES
- Recognize and value all within the global YMCA movement through learning exchanges, volunteerism, and philanthropy.
- Connect and build bridges between diverse individuals, groups, and communities.
- Champion multicultural understanding and the development of globally-minded YMCA leaders at home and abroad.
- Lead interpersonal and community engagement with empathy.
- Understand the needs and wants of all segments of the community; develop solutions that ensure the greatest possible inclusion.
- Promote the safe exchange of ideas, beliefs, and perspectives at the local, national, and global levels.
activities, events, and programs throughout the years
2022-2023
The YMCA of Central Florida was selected by Y-USA to join 9 other Ys across the nation to be part of an 18-month cohort to help Ys build organizations that help all stakeholders thrive, and to exemplify model principles in engaging community to co-create solutions that meet societies most pressing needs. In doing so, we believe that we can, together, further bring the YMCA’s cause and mission to life and build the foundations of a strong community for all.
2020
Our GRACE Committee conducted internal assessments and held discussions to understand differing perspectives in recognition of the importance of listening, learning, and understanding one another to create a stronger community.
2018-2019
Y staff traveled internationally to further learn about other cultures as part of the Emerging Global Leaders Initiatives program and learned ways to strengthen mutual respect and understanding. Also, the YMCA of Central Florida was one of just 10 Ys in the nation to receive a grant which provided funding for the training of Y staff in support of how we serve and support our LGTBQ community.
2017
The YMCA of Central Florida formed our GRACE Committee, comprised of a diverse cross-section of Y staff. Additionally, our Y staff traveled to an international location through the Emerging Global Leaders Initiative program to learn ways to continue to bridge communities together.
2013
To aid in advancing our understanding and support for all, we launched the Emerging Global Leaders Initiative through the YMCA of the USA. This program provides the opportunity for leadership development for staff as they travel to international locations and are immersed in learning from other cultures and each other.
2013
To aid in advancing our understanding and support for all, we launched the Emerging Global Leaders Initiative through the YMCA of the USA. This program provides the opportunity for leadership development for staff as they travel to international locations and are immersed in learning from other cultures and each other.
Connecting Communities
The YMCA of Central Florida has a longstanding commitment to serve all segments of society. We’re compelled by our mission to serve and love our neighbors as ourselves.
