Challenge grants provide matching funds for international education at our Ys and Camps. Our International Committee funds 10-12 projects per year, including projects like the Y-GEO Kit Program at the Coon Rapids – Emma B. Howe Y.
Y-GEO Kit Program at the Coon Rapids – Emma B. Howe Y
The Emma B. Howe Y in Coon Rapids has partnered with the Y in Durban, South Africa, since 2009.
With help from a Challenge Grant from the YMCA International Committee, the Coon Rapids Y’s Diversity Committee has created the “Y-GEO! Kit”. Y-GEO! stands for Y Global Education Opportunity!
The kit includes educational materials and activities to increase global awareness and a computer to facilitate online video conferences with our friends at the Durban Y. The Y-GEO! kit is available for Y team members, volunteers, members, schools and community groups.
Our partnership with the Durban Y provides an opportunity for us to learn about the culture, customs, traditions and lifestyle of those in another part of the world. The online video conferences allow us to share a “face-to-face” cultural experience.
Our Ys have many similarities and a few stark differences. You would not find a swimming pool or a fitness center at the Durban Y. But you WOULD see happy kids participating in youth-focused programs.
The Durban Y provides youth programs for building life skills, computer literacy, youth and advocacy, and youth justice - programs similar to those our Intervention Services team members deliver every day. These programs are crucial to strengthening Durban kids, families and the community and directly correlate with their motto of “Empowering youth for life, leadership and service.”
Learn more about the Durban Y
