Central Okanagan

The Y will always be the Y, but the YMCA-YWCA of the Central Okanagan now has a new official name.

It will be called YMCA of Okanagan. The new official name for the local Y was approved by its members at a Special Members meeting held Oct. 3rd following the decision of Y members to voluntarily withdraw the charity’s membership in YWCA Canada.

Two separate and successive meetings of the membership were held to consider the resolution to withdraw membership as required by YWCA Canada’s Bylaws.

The resolution passed by the required 75 per cent majority of votes cast at both meetings (held Sept. 20 and Oct. 3).

“While we recognize the important work of YWCA Canada, its national mandate and focus on advocacy and programs exclusively for women is very different from our own local mission, strategic plan and focus on building a healthy community for all ages, genders, beliefs and circumstances,” says Ron Stewardson, YMCA Okanagan Board President. 

“Not only was it very difficult to try to fulfil the very different missions of two national organizations, membership in both requires a lot of additional resources of time and funds.”

The local Y will retain its membership in YMCA Canada, with its focus on community and families, especially on the health and development of children and youth. 

Despite the Y’s name change, program offerings to individuals and families will remain unchanged.

“The Okanagan YMCA will retain its inclusive philosophy, programs, mission or service standards offered to women, men, children, youth and families ,” says Sharon Peterson, the Y’s CEO. 

“Our growing investment in programs to help both girls and boys build strong values and character, and ultimately become strong contributors to a healthy community, is a solid component of our mission and strategic plan.”

The new name also reflects the regional scope of Y programs and services, including the operation of Silver Lake Camp in Peachland and new employment programs located in Summerland and Penticton.