Kids play in the pool at the YMCA summer camp program Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023 in Pocomoke City, Maryland.
San Diego, California – Officials announced Tuesday that the YMCA of San Diego County and YMCA México have signed a formal binational agreement to better serve communities on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border.
The partnership—called the Cali-Baja YMCA Binational Initiative—is the first international collaboration in the YMCA of the USA’s 170-year history. The YMCA designed the initiative to support more than 7 million people living in the California-Baja California region, one of the most interconnected border areas in the world.
“The Cali-Baja YMCA Binational Initiative reflects the true spirit of the global YMCA movement,” said Todd Tibbits, president and CEO of the YMCA of San Diego County. “This agreement allows us to address regional challenges with shared resources that strengthen lives on both sides of the border.”
To commemorate the milestone, YMCA leaders also celebrated reopening the aquatics facility at Club Deportivo YMCA Tijuana, which has undergone significant renovations, including resurfaced decks and updated filtration systems.
“This formal partnership is about building a future where the YMCA stands for opportunity and unity across borders,” said Óscar Velasco, secretario general of YMCA de México. “Every child in the Cali-Baja region deserves a safe, nurturing place to grow.”
The agreement establishes collaboration in seven strategic areas, including forming a binational advisory board with 12 members — six from the U.S. and six from Mexico. It also includes the appointment of Valeria Ruiz as the new Director of Binational Engagement. Ruiz will divide her time between both countries, helping to coordinate cross-border programming and services.
YMCA officials emphasized that this partnership brings together resources, shared expertise, and cultural understanding to meet the unique needs of border communities. Both organizations aim to expand youth development programs, improve facilities, and invest in staff training and outreach initiatives.
“By working as one, we multiply our impact and deepen our commitment to the communities we serve,” said Velasco.
With this agreement, the YMCA hopes to set a model for other regions where cross-border cooperation can benefit underserved populations.
