Global education is incorporated in some way through all YMCA of Greater Vancouver programs and services for children and youth. Each summer, for example, there is an opportunity for young people at YMCA Camps to learn from YMCA Youth Peace Network volunteers, as that group increases their inter-cultural and leadership skills.

In the third week of November every year, we celebrate YMCA World Peace Week by recognizing 'the Power of Peace' that is in our Lower Mainland communities. At our 2005 event, over 300 local high-school students learned more about how to create a more peaceful world and build hope right here at home.

Another element of the YMCA's international development work is lending support to partner countries and associations, focusing mainly on the most serious human and social needs. Through various projects, the YMCA of Greater Vancouver is currently partnered with Ecuador, Ethiopia and Brazil, so that we may learn from each other through the exchange, adaptation and application of our ideas and expertise.