The YMCA-YWCA of the Central Okanagan has a new official name—it will be called YMCA of the Okanagan.
The name was approved in the wake of the decision last month for the local Y to withdraw the charity’s membership in YWCA Canada.
“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,” said Ron Stewardson, YMCA Okanagan board president. “Not only was it very difficult to try to fulfill 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.