BuildingA BetterFuture
California State Alliance of YMCAs
Staff
Kris Lev-Twombly | President and CEO kris@ymcasofca.org
Dan Crocker | Director of Association Resources dan@ymcasofca.org
Elizabeth Ernster | Director of Communications and Development, elizabeth@ymcasofca.org
Megan Pierce | Communications and Engagement Manager, megan@ymcasofca.org
Christina Marcellus | Director of Public Policy christina@capitoladvisors org
Board of Directors
Vince Iuculano, Chair YMCA of the Foothills
Curt Skotnicki, Incoming Chair YMCA of Greater Whittier
Matthew Henry, Secretary Sonoma County Family YMCA
Margo Byrne, Treasurer Channel Islands YMCA
Ronnie Stone, Public Policy Chair Southeast Ventura County YMCA
Alfredo Velasco, Member at Large YMCA of Greater Long Beach
Audrie Echnoz, Member at Large Corona-Norco Family YMCA
Amy Grames, Member at Large Central Coast YMCA
www.ymcasofca.org
@CaliforniaStateAllianceofYMCAs
Table of Contents
Through trusted community relationships, California Ys helped families to prepare for earthquakes before disaster strikes.
LOCAL YMCA STORIES
Inspiring stories of community impact, growth, and resilience from YMCAs across California.
LEADING WITH PURPOSE STATEWIDE PARTNERSHIP: CASE STUDY
A conversation with Alfredo Velasco on hosting the NAYDO conference, inspiring leaders, and advancing philanthropy.
ADVOCACY CORNER
Understanding the latest budget developments and the impact on communities statewide.
Letter from the CEO
Dear YMCA Colleagues and Friends,
As I reflect on the stories featured in this issue, I am reminded that leadership takes many forms. Sometimes leadership means standing before policymakers in Sacramento and advocating for communities. Sometimes it means preparing neighbors for the next emergency before disaster strikes. Sometimes it means welcoming a child into a pool for the first time, creating a space where farmworker families feel seen and valued, or inspiring a donor to invest in a stronger future.
The common thread is that YMCA leadership begins with service. Across California, YMCAs continue to meet the evolving needs of our communities with compassion and determination. The stories in this issue reflect that commitment.
This spring provided several examples of what is possible when we work together. Our inaugural Advocacy Day brought YMCA CEOs from across California to Sacramento to engage directly with policymakers and state leaders. At the same time, local Ys continued delivering the work that makes advocacy meaningful. These efforts may look different from community to community, but together they represent the extraordinary breadth of the YMCA mission in action.
This issue also highlights the YMCA of Greater Long Beach's successful hosting of NAYDO. Alfredo Velasco's reflections remind us that philanthropy is ultimately about relationships, trust, and shared purpose. Those same principles strengthen every aspect of our work, from fundraising and volunteer engagement to public policy and community partnerships.
The statewide impact highlighted in these pages is impressive. Yet the numbers tell only part of the story. Behind every statistic is a child who discovered confidence, a family that found support, a senior who found community, or a neighborhood made stronger because a YMCA was present.
Our success has never been measured solely by programs delivered or dollars raised, but by the trust we earn and the lives we help change.
As we continue celebrating the YMCA's 175th anniversary, I am grateful for the leadership demonstrated every day across our movement. Thank you for your partnership, your innovation, and your commitment to serving others.
Together, we are not only responding to the challenges of today. We are helping build a better future for California's communities.
With appreciation, i bl
BUILDING PREPARED COMMUNITIES THROUGH TRUSTED RELATIONSHIPS
California Office of Emergency Services Earthquake Early Warning Initiative
Earthquake preparedness begins long before disaster strikes. Across California, YMCAs are helping communities build the knowledge and confidence needed to respond when it matters most.
With support from the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (CalOES), the California State Alliance of YMCAs partnered with the Central Coast YMCA and Channel Islands YMCA to expand earthquake preparedness outreach across Central and Southern California. Through afterschool programs, childcare centers, workplace outreach, and community events, YMCA staff conducted 116 events, reaching more than 49,157 community members with practical tools and information designed to help individuals and families prepare before an emergency occurs.
49,157 116
Community Members Reached
Outreach Events
Because YMCAs are deeply rooted in the communities they serve, staff were able to deliver preparedness education in places where trust already existed. Families learned about California’s MyShake early warning application, children participated in hands-on earthquake safety activities, and households received preparedness materials.
One of the strongest examples of impact came through youth programming, where more than 380 children across six childcare sites participated in interactive safety lessons designed to make earthquake preparedness engaging and easy to remember. As children brought materials home, those lessons often sparked conversations with parents and preparedness
meaningful community YMCA had major earthquake teaching Chile. They described how frightening the experience had been and how unprepared they felt in the moment. In response, staff shared the Seven Steps to Earthquake Safety, offering practical guidance that helped turn uncertainty into confidence.
“This partnership between CalOES and California YMCAs showcases how trusted community relationships can make earthquake preparedness more accessible.”
In Monterey County, outreach with Spanish-speaking farmworker families reinforced an important lesson: emergency preparedness is most effective when information is delivered by trusted local organizations. By meeting families in familiar spaces and providing culturally responsive resources, YMCA staff helped ensure critical safety information reached households that might otherwise have been missed.
This partnership between CalOES and California YMCAs showcases how trusted community relationships can make earthquake preparedness more accessible and more effective for families across California.
Leading Together in Sacramento
Inaugural
Advocacy Day
Over the span of two days, 15 CEOs from across California gathered to strengthen relationships, elevate community priorities, and advocate for policies that directly impact communities statewide. The gathering provided an opportunity for leaders to connect with elected officials and state agencies while reinforcing the collective voice of California YMCAs.
“This milestone event created space for meaningful dialogue with agency leaders, nonprofit partners, and elected officials from our local districts,” Vince Iuculano, Chair of the California State Alliance of YMCAs and CEO of YMCA of the Foothills, states. “I’m especially proud of how we unified our voice around youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.”
Together, CEOs advanced shared legislative priorities critical to their communities which included strengthening Expanded Learning Opportunity Programs (ELOP), protecting child care funding, fully funding Proposition 98, supporting nonprofits facing litigation pressures, partnering on emergency preparedness, and recognizing YMCAs in child protection leadership.
“This milestone event created space for meaningful dialogue with agency leaders, nonprofit partners, and elected officials from our local districts.”
In addition to policy conversations, the event created valuable opportunities for collaboration and relationship-building among YMCA leaders from diverse regions of California. By coming together in a unified effort, CEOs reaffirmed a shared commitment to strengthening the YMCA movement across California.
“Advocacy days are designed to elevate your voice, strengthen connections with electeds and administrators, and galvanize your network in common purpose,” Kris Lev-Twombly, CEO of the California State Alliance of YMCAs, explains. “We accomplished that, and we’re committed to building on our collaboration for the years ahead.”
As California communities continue to face evolving challenges, the California State Alliance of YMCAs remains committed to ensuring local YMCAs have a seat at the table in conversations that shape the future of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility across the state.
HONORING OUR COMMUNITY
CENTRAL COAST YMCA FARMWORKER APPRECIATION WEEKENDS
The Central Coast YMCA is proud to offer Farmworker Appreciation Days on the weekend, an ongoing initiative created to recognize and support the hardworking farmworker families who are essential to the strength and vitality of this region.
Each weekend, farmworker families are welcomed into the YMCA for a full day of connection, wellness, and fun for just $5 per family. This program is designed as a consistent opportunity rather than a one-time event. It ensures families can return week after week to a space where they feel at home.
“This is a place where my family can relax and be together. My kids look forward to coming every weekend, and it means a lot to feel welcomed here.”
From the moment families arrive, they are invited to experience all the YMCA has to offer. Children build confidence and friendships through youth activities and play, while parents and caregivers enjoy access to fitness spaces, group activities, and time to recharge. The pools, gymnasiums, and outdoor areas come alive with laughter and shared experiences that strengthen f
family bonds and community ties. For many families, long work hours and demanding schedules make it difficult to find time for rest and connection. Farmworker Appreciation Weekends are designed to ease that burden by offering an affordable and welcoming place to pause, breathe, and enjoy time together It is about creating moments of joy, dignity, and belonging.
LOCAL YMCA: CENTRAL COAST YMCA
“Farmworkers are the heart of our community, and this is one small way we can give back.”
This program is made possible through the generosity of a local agricultural foundation whose grant support allows the YMCA to remove financial barriers and extend its reach to those who need it most. Their partnership reflects a shared commitment to honoring the individuals and families who play a critical role in sustaining our local economy and food systems.
“Farmworkers are the heart of our community, and this is one small way we can give back,” said Amy Grames, President and CEO of the Central Coast YMCA. “We want every family who walks through our doors to feel welcomed and supported every weekend they choose to come.”
One participant shared, “This is a place where my family can relax and be together. My kids look forward to coming every weekend, and it means a lot to feel welcomed here.” - M. Diaz, participant at Central Coast YMCA.
Farmworkers are at the heart of the Central Coast, and their contributions often go unseen. Through this ongoing effort, the YMCA seeks to change that by offering gratitude and tangible support that promotes health, connection, and well-being.
Farmworker Appreciation Weekends reflect the YMCA’s mission to build a stronger, more inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Each weekend, as families gather, play, and reconnect, that vision comes to life in a meaningful way.
To learn more visit: www.centralcoastymca.org
HOWTHEWESTENDYMCAIS TEACHINGACOMMUNITYTOSWIM
On any given school day in May, laughter echoes through the pool deck at the West End YMCA. For hundreds of first graders, this is not just swim lessons, it is a life-saving milestone.
Since 2019, the YMCA’s Safety Around Water program has welcomed every first grader in the Upland Unified School District, serving an average of 650 students each year. While the program paused in 2020 during the pandemic, its return has been stronger than ever, reaffirming a powerful mission: ensuring that every child in the community has the skills and confidence to reach safety if they ever find themselves in the water.
Recently, those efforts received a special honor when the organization was recognized with a proclamation during a school board meeting, an acknowledgment of the program’s growing impact and its role in protecting young lives.
A First Step Toward Lifelong Safety
For many children, this program is their very first experience in a pool. Instructors begin with the fundamentals: how to float, how to move to the wall, and how to stay calm in the water. While the lessons may look like simple games and playful challenges, they are carefully designed to build one critical skill: the ability to reach safety.
Drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death for children, and access to swim lessons can often depend on a family’s financial resources. The Safety Around Water program works to remove that barrier entirely by partnering with local schools and ensuring every first grader can participate.
Building Confidence Beyond the Pool
Teachers and parents consistently report the same transformation: students who arrive nervous leave eager to show off their new skills. Beyond the physical techniques, the program builds confidence and introduces kids to a lifelong healthy activity. Families often return to the YMCA for additional swim lessons as well as other programs, turning a single school visit into an ongoing relationship with water safety and wellness.
“The world is 71% water and children are 100% curious. Our Board had a vision to make aquatics programming accessible to all, no matter a family’s financial background. We want the community to know we are here and ready to teach anyone interested in how to become water safe.”
-Farzad
Yektafar, CEO of the West End YMCA
Serving approximately 650 students each year requires careful coordination between school staff, instructors, volunteers, and community supporters. Transportation, instruction, and pool time are all part of a coordinated effort driven by one shared goal: preventing tragedies before they happen.
The recent school board proclamation highlights just how deeply the program resonates with the community. It recognizes not only the number of students served, but the commitment to equity and access that sits at the heart of the YMCA’s mission.
Looking Ahead
As the program continues to grow, the West End YMCA hopes to expand its reach and inspire even more families to prioritize water safety. Because while the lessons may begin in first grade, the impact lasts a lifetime. Each splash in the pool represents more than a swim lesson, it’s a step toward a community that looks out for its youngest members. And for hundreds of children each year, it’s the moment they discover that the water doesn’t have to be scary, when you know how to reach safety.
To learn more visit: www.weymca.org
ADAYOF IMPACT
CaliforniaYsCelebrate HealthyKidsDay
Since 1992, Healthy Kids Day has invited families into their local YMCA to discover what the Y can mean in the life of a child. On
From petting zoos to obstacle courses, children were able to test their abilities and step outside of their comfort zones throughout the day. “We hosted 200 attendees from our community. Our sports staff ran an obstacle course for the kids on our soccer field, group exercise staff held family yoga and Zumba classes, and our aquatics staff provided free water safety
“It was a great familyfriendly day designed to inspire kids to stay active, engaged, and thriving,”
together families and alumni from across generations. “We celebrated Healthy Kids Day with a petting zoo, rock wall, jumpers, and carnival games. We also had a swim competition and had alumni share stories and reminisce,” said Robert Messler, Director of Programs & Communications.
In Southeast Ventura County, the Yarrow Family YMCA welcomed nearly 1,000 attendees for Healthy Kids Day, offering families the opportunity to participate in aquatics activities, sports obstacle courses, rock climbing, art projects, and dance demonstrations.
In Northern California, YMCA of Superior California celebrated Healthy Kids Day across multiple branches, with each location offering activities shaped by its local community, emphasizing fun, healthy living, and a community connection. “It was a great family-friendly day designed to inspire kids to stay active, engaged, and thriving,” said Michelle Head, Chief Operating Officer at the Sonoma County Family YMCA.
From century-old camp traditions to a child’s first water safety lesson, Healthy Kids Day highlights the many ways California Ys are meeting families where they are. For many children, it is a first introduction to the Y. For parents, it is often the beginning of a connection to programs and support that can last far beyond a single day.
California Budget Update
Christina Marcellus Director of Public Policy
California State Alliance of YMCAs
What YMCAs Should Be Watching
California’s budget outlook improved significantly with Governor Gavin Newsom’s May Revision, which he released on May 14. Thanks largely to strong tax revenues driven by stock market gains and booming stock market performance, the Administration now projects a balanced budget and claims to have eliminated the state’s structural deficit through 2028 while maintaining major investments that have been central to Newsom’s time as governor
For YMCAs, this is encouraging news. Programs that support children, families, and communities, workforce development initiatives, and youth services, appear less likely to face immediate reductions than many feared earlier this year. Both the Senate and Assembly budget frameworks protect major social safety net programs, and hold the line on pursuing major new spending, given the potential volatility of state revenues in the next months and years.
While the current fiscal landscape is welcome, state leaders continue to warn about several economic risks. California’s revenues remain heavily dependent on high-income taxpayers and stock market performance, particularly gains tied to AI companies and related investments. Both the Governor’s Administration and independent analysts have cautioned
“While California’s budget outlook has improved, economic uncertainty remains, making the YMCA’s role in strengthening communities more important than ever. ”
that an AI-driven market correction could quickly reduce state revenues and reopen budget deficits.
Inflation also remains a concern. Federal Reserve officials have signaled that inflationary pressures could remain elevated due to global instability, tariffs, and growing demand for AI-related infrastructure. Higher costs continue to affect nonprofit organizations through increased wages, insurance costs, utilities, food purchases, and facility maintenance.
The labor market also presents mixed signals. While AI is creating new opportunities, many economists warn that automation could displace significant numbers of entry-level and administrative jobs over time. Governor Newsom recently released an order intended to prepare the workforce and employees for the impact AI could have on jobs, a topic particularly salient now that major employers including Meta and Block, have already made clear their AI-related layoff plans. As budget negotiations continue through June, YMCAs should remain engaged with policymakers and continue demonstrating the essential role they play in strengthening California’s communities, particularly during times of economic uncertainty.
The final budget will be enacted by the start of the fiscal year on July 1, and it’s likely that the revenue picture will be even better than the May Revision.
ALFREDO VELASCO
AConversationwiththeCEOofthe YMCAofGreaterLongBeachonthe NorthAmericanYMCADevelopment Organization2026Conference
What was one moment from this year ’ s conference that stayed with you?
Erin Gruwell’s keynote deeply resonated with me, especially her message about the impact one caring adult can have in a child’s life. I’ll also remember the energy of the Philanthropy Live! projects, the
y our volunteers, One Y” closing ation beside the iconic Queen Mary.
urney in the Y you lead in
My journey with the YMCA taught me that when you engage individuals and communities in a shared purpose, the impact multiplies far beyond what any one person can achieve alone. That belief continues to shape my leadership in YMCA development today—connecting people to a mission that transforms lives and helps communities thrive.
From your perspective, why should philanthropy be a leadership priority forYCEOs?
Philanthropy and our calling to serve all is essential to advancing the Y’s mission. It allows us to strengthen communities, expand our impact, and serve more people. CEOs play a critical role as advocates, storytellers, and relationship builders who inspire others to invest in meaningful change and create opportunities that would not otherwise be possible.
AfterhostingNAYDO,whatdoyou hopeleaderstakebacktotheirYsand communities?
I hope leaders leave inspired, energized, and reminded that philanthropy is ultimately about relationships and impact. I hope they return with new ideas, stronger connections, and a renewed commitment to telling their Y’s story in ways that deepen engagement and create lasting change in their communities.
"After more than two years of planning, our incredible staff and volunteers created a memorable and inspiring experience."
Courtesy of the YMCA of Greater Long Beach
Impact Snapshot
By the numbers, the Y continues to play a vital role in building stronger communities across California. Through meaningful engagement, critical programming, and a growing membership, the Y remains a trusted partner for communities statewide.
849,132
Members Engaged
1,949
Community Collaborations
126,682
Summer day campers build character and life-long friendships.
125,960
Older adults found community through their YMCA membership.
55,000+
3 Statewide Funded Partnerships
California Office of Emergency Services, Office of Community Partnerships and Strategic Communications, and Ballmer Group.
24,783
Volunteers Engaged
Students are safe and supported in afterschool care programming.
142,410
Children engage in swim lessons to promote healthy living and prevent drowning
590,776
2.3 MILLION
Meals served this year to provide critical nourishment to communities across California
The California State Alliance of YMCAs made significant contributions to support local Ys across the state.
Over the past year, our impact included:
$10,695,137.55 in private foundation grants secured and distributed to YMCAs in California.
$10,174,485 in funding secured for 17 YMCAs in California 5,000+ in direct staff hours provided in support of local Y programs and initiatives.
$831.3M
Operating Revenue
Total investment in programs, services, and mission-driven initiatives across the state to strengthen communities.
$415.5M
Annual Charitable Support
Fueling essential programs, outreach, and financial assistance across California to ensure everyone has access to the Y.
CONNECTED FOR COMMUNITIES
The California State Alliance of YMCAs represents the collective strength of YMCAs across California, advocating for policies and fostering partnerships that benefit communities statewide Our membership and governing board consist of YMCA CEOs and executive leaders, committed to advancing our mission. The Alliance serves as the unified voice of YMCAs in shaping public policy, a platform for achieving lasting community impact, and the central hub for statewide collaboration. Together, we are deeply connected to communities and committed to building a stronger California.
www.ymcasofca.org
Learn more at: Learn more
Vince Iuculano, CEO
BOARD
CHAIR,
YMCA OF THE FOOTHILLS
As we move into the summer season, I am reminded once again of the extraordinary impact YMCA associations have in communities across California.
This past April, that collective impact was on full display during our California Alliance of YMCAs Advocacy Days in Sacramento. Over two days, YMCA leaders from throughout the state came together to engage with elected officials, state agency leaders, and nonprofit partners to share our mission and advocate for policies that support healthy youth development, workforce opportunities, community well-being, and equitable access to programs and services.
Our conversations reinforced what we know to be true: the YMCA remains one of California's most trusted and effective community-based organizations. By speaking with a unified voice, we highlighted the critical role YMCAs play in addressing the needs of children, families, and communities, while advancing legislation and public policy that helps further our mission. I am grateful to everyone who participated and represented the Y movement with passion and purpose.
I would also like to extend special recognition and appreciation to the YMCA of Greater Long Beach and President & CEO Alfredo Velasco for hosting an outstanding NAYDO Conference in May Attendees from across the country experienced not only a world-class conference, but also the warmth, hospitality, and excellence that define the YMCA of Greater Long Beach and the California YMCA community.
As we prepare for another busy summer camp season, it is worth reflecting on the historic and ongoing contributions of YMCAs throughout California. We are also proud to be among the state's largest employers of youth and young adults, creating meaningful first-job experiences that develop leadership skills and a lifelong commitment to service.
The YMCA has long been a place where children are encouraged to dream bigger, families find support, and future leaders are developed. The investments we make in young people today will strengthen our communities for generations to come.
As we look ahead, I am inspired by the momentum we are building together. Whether advocating in Sacramento, serving families in our communities, developing the next generation of leaders, or strengthening philanthropy across our movement, California's YMCAs continue to demonstrate the power of working together in service to others.
Thank you for your leadership, your partnership, and your unwavering commitment to our mission I wish each of you a successful and impactful summer season.
Onward and Upward!
