TIJUANA, B.C. — In what has been described as a historic event, the YMCA of San Diego County and YMCA Mexico signed a binational collaboration agreement on the morning of Monday, May 12, in the city of Tijuana
During the signing ceremony, both organizations emphasized that this is the first agreement of its kind in the 170-year history of the YMCA in the United States, marking an unprecedented step in cross-border cooperation to support youth and families in the Cali-Baja region.
Photo courtesy of YMCA of San Diego County.
The new alliance will be known as the YMCA Cali-Baja Binational Initiative and aims to serve over 7 million peopleresiding in this shared border community between Baja California and Southern California.
“The YMCA Cali-Baja Binational Initiative reflects the true spirit of the global YMCA movement—coming together across borders with a shared mission, vision, and commitment to community,” said Todd Tibbits, President and CEO of the YMCA of San Diego County.
Reopening of Upgraded Aquatic Facilities in Tijuana
As part of the event, attendees also celebrated the official reopening of the renovated aquatic facilities at the YMCA Sports Club in Tijuana. The space will be used as a safe environment for swim lessons, aquafitness, swim team training, and water safety activities for children, youth, and families.
Photo courtesy of YMCA of San Diego County.
New Binational Director Appointed
The ceremony also included the announcement of Valeria Ruiz as the new Director of Binational Relations for the YMCA Cali-Baja, who will be responsible for strengthening cross-border partnerships and programs.
It’s worth noting that YMCA stands for Young Men’s Christian Association, a global nonprofit organization dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.