The YMCA of WNC is dedicated to welcoming all. We are a part of the YMCA of the USA’s Diversity, Inclusion, and Global (DIG) Innovation network, a cohort of Ys throughout the country in fast-growing areas that are leading the Y movement’s efforts toward engagement with diverse and under-resourced communities and driving program innovation so that everyone, regardless of who they are or where they come from has an opportunity to reach their full potential.

This means:

• Recognizing that a diverse and inclusive organization is foundational to developing and engaging everyone across the entire Y spectrum. Our volunteers, members, program participants, families, leaders, staff, vendors, suppliers, donors, collaborators and the community at large all contribute to our efforts to make positive, lasting personal and social change.
• Believing we all benefit from the unique talents of our diverse staff. We encourage our staff to participate in our six national Employee Resource Groups, which offer opportunities to contribute, learn, network and share experiences as they progress in their careers.
• Having a supplier diversity program that seeks out talented minority and women-owned contractors and service providers.
• Offering Y staff and volunteers professional development and training programs that build key competencies to welcome, engage, serve, and advocate for all segments of society.

We are passionate about our cause to strengthen communities and know that our ability to achieve it begins with reflecting and partnering with people from all walks of life.

Employee Resource Groups

The YMCA of WNC's diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts include staff-led employee resource groups for African-American/Black, Hispanic/Latino, and LGBTQ+ staff. These groups, which provide a safe space for staff to have in-depth and authentic conversations, serve as advisors to the association on DEI initiatives. Please contact us to learn more.

The YMCA of WNC is a WNC Diversity Engagement Coalition member organization.