This year, 54 delegates met at YMCA Camp Cedar Glen for a weekend of training, connection and sharing of expertise. Participants came from India, Egypt, Lebanon, Taiwan, Japan, England, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, USA, Canada, Brazil, Columbia and Mexico.

“The programs and content were stimulating and thought provoking,” said Linda Cottes, Senior VP Operations, Child, Youth and Family. “They provided a perspective of the challenges and innovations YMCAs from around the world deal with on a daily basis.”

The delegates were deeply impressed by YMCA Cedar Glen, whose staff went “above and beyond” to provide a first-rate conference experience. Delegates also had the opportunity to visit the YMCA of Niagara and to visit Niagara Falls and downtown Toronto.

On the final evening, the delegates from England were so appreciative of YMCA Camp Cedar Glen, they donated 5,000 pounds (more than $10,000 Canadian dollars), to make improvements that will benefit children.

“Our main goal for the event was for the delegates to make connections with each other and our Y,” Cottes said. “This goal was overachieved.”