The Executive Committee of the WAY met in Geneva March 31 – April 2 and decided that the next World Council will be held in the USA from June 29th to July 5th, 2014.
The meeting also unanimously passed the NEW WAY strategy 2011-14 with an overall strong focus on young people and with five strategic priority goals, that are: Youth Empowerment, Movement Strengthening, Resource Mobilization, Branding and Communications, and Constitution and Governance.
The Executive Committee also received exciting reports from the Partners In Progress project, a next step in the coming branding process of the global YMCA.
The meeting was presided over by Ken Colloton, President of the World Alliance, together with the Deputy President – Fernando Ondarza, Treasurer – Helen McEwan, and Committee Chairs – Vezi Mncwango for Governance and Patricia Pelton for Image and Impact. Twenty seven members of the Executive Committee were present from Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, the Middle East, and Canada and the USA.
The Governance, Image and Impact, and Finance Committees approved their Terms of Reference and agreed on the priorities for focus in 2011. Reports were received from the Investment Committee and the John R. Mott Foundation.
The World Alliance Executive Committee received a special report on the response and actions of the YMCA of Japan to the current crisis caused by the earthquake, Tsunami, and nuclear facility breakdown. Prayers and support are offered to the Japanese people.
The World Alliance extends thanks to the volunteers for their vision and support. The minutes, committee reports, and supporting materials will be available on the extranet for further reference.
We wish safe travels to all Executive Committee members and YMCA staff as they return to their homes.