YMCA AND THE 2030 GOALS
All over the world YMCAs and young leaders are delivering youth-led projects and community development. As a result, they are making a significant contribution towards achieving the United Nations 17 core Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The SDGs are an urgent call for action and have become an increasing global priority to NGOs, governments, companies and society since they were set in 2015 when they were adopted by all 193 United Nations Member States.
YMCA’s reach, into the heart of more than 12,000 communities across 120 countries around the world – and its mission to strengthen youth leadership – means that it is uniquely positioned to continue to advance the 2030 Goals and create a better life for the young people of the future, with the young people of today.
Through youth research, the World Alliance of YMCAs has focused the SDGs into key pillars of work that are areas of specialism for YMCA and priorities for young people.
They are:
▸Health
▸Environment
▸Economic Empowerment & Employment
▸Civic Engagement
▸Education
The four pillars of Health, Environment, Economic Empowerment & Employment and Civic Engagement are at the heart of YMCA175, with a constant overarching theme of Education throughout. During the four days young leaders will connect to discuss their priorities and collectively take action, celebrate 175 years of transforming communities, and create new ideas and solutions positive change.
YMCA175 will put the UN SDGs at the centre of its agenda, using the global framework for change to inspire local action and further the work YMCA is already doing. YMCA175 delegates will be empowered to continue advancing the SDGs in their home communities well after the event’s closing sessions.