The YMCA it is a global youth and volunteer movement, non-profit, founded in London in 1844, with a presence in more than 121 countries. Its mission is to inspire and create opportunities for a dignified life, especially among vulnerable populations, promoting the empowerment of young people and women as key agents of development in their communities. The YMCA’s programs are based on a rights-based approach, aimed at improving living conditions, fostering equity, and actively contributing to peacebuilding.

In Colombia, the YMCA was established in 1964 and currently has 9 local movements committed to strengthening youth leadership. Their work focuses on reducing social gaps, combating inequalities, and countering the exclusion faced by the most vulnerable communities. The organization uses a rights-based approach that promotes equity and peace through programs focused on employment, skills development, and quality of life.

Annually, the YMCA Colombia impacts more than 65,000 people in 16 departments and 45 municipalities, in 95 programs, with the support and commitment of 960 volunteers and 445 employees, who lead initiatives in urban and rural communities, making a significant contribution to social transformation in the country.