The YMCA of San Diego County and YMCA México proudly announce the Cali-Baja YMCA Binational Initiative
On May 12, 2025, the YMCA of San Diego County and YMCA México proudly announced the Cali-Baja YMCA Binational Initiative. This initiative is the first time in YMCA of the USA’s history that a formal binational agreement has been created between the United States and another country.
This collaborative effort illustrates the commitment to the global Y movement, a community united by its mission, vision, values, cultural, social and economic ties. This partnership is specifically designed to address the unique and pressing challenges faced by the more than 7 million people living in the Cali-Baja region. It also serves as a platform to celebrate the well-being, respect, and safety of all — a core value of the YMCA.
Key leaders of the YMCA of San Diego County, including President and CEO Todd Tibbits, and YMCA México leadership, gathered in a ceremony at the YMCA Tijuana. The visit included the reopening ceremony at the Tijuana YMCA Sports Center and a visit to the YMCA Home for Migrant Youth, hosted by Óscar Velasco, CEO of Y México, and Valeria Ruiz, coordinator of the Home and soon-to-be director for binational engagement. This partnership, with its potential to bring significant benefits to both the Y and the Cali-Baja community, is a testament to the leadership’s commitment.