In episode 20 of the Community Rec Magazine Podcast, Todd Tibbits, the president and CEO of the YMCA of San Diego County, discusses an exciting new partnership between his Y and YMCA Mexico — the Cali-Baja Binational Initiative.
This first-of-its-kind partnership aims to unify the San Diego and Tijuana regions by creating a shared advisory board, hiring a binational engagement director, and exchanging expertise in areas like marketing, philanthropy and leadership development.
Key Takeaways
Overview of Cali Baja Initiative
- The initiative is the first formal bi-national YMCA agreement in 170-year history if YMCA of the USA.
- Connects San Diego and Tijuana as one community over two countries.
- Over 200,000 people cross the border daily for work/education, making the partnership essential to provide services.
- Proximity and shared community are key drivers of the partnership.
Major Aspects of the Initiative
- Seven key agreement points exist within the framework with five being focused on shared services.
- Formed a 12-person binational advisory board with six members from each country.
- Established first binational engagement director position.
- Special focus on training, marketing, philanthropy and leadership development within the community and the organizations.
YMCA San Diego’s Unique Positioning
- Offers expertise in shared services.
- The YMCA has been committed to serving youth experiencing homelessness in the area.
- Willing to learn from YMCA Mexico as equal partners.
- Emphasizes language skills and cultural understanding between the entities.
Todd Tibbits and His Hopes for the Initiative
- Create an example that can cause a global movement of community unification.
- Break down barriers between different cultures and perspectives.
- Provide opportunities for well-being across borders.
- Serve as a model for future international collaborations between nations.
Advice for Industry Leaders
- Focus on building relationships before keying in on business aspects.
- Respond to contemporary community needs.
- Look beyond traditional service boundaries.
- Prioritize partnerships that bring communities together effectively and safely.
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