Local YMCA launching new name, new image

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on December 3, 2024.

asmith@medicinehatnews.com

The YMCA of Medicine Hat is making a name and image change to better reflect its secular nature.

This change is a part of a longstanding dedication to ensuring diversity, equity and inclusion are reflected in all aspects of the organization, says the YMCA of Medicine Hat.

“YMCAs in Canada have operated as secular organizations welcoming all people since the 1970s. Although we rarely used our full legal name, it’s still important that it reflects the true purpose of the organization and the geographic area served,” said CEO Sharon Hayward.

Going forward, the organization’s legal name has been changed from the Medicine Hat Family Young Men’s Christian Association to the YMCA of Southeastern Alberta Association, and will operate as the YMCA of Southeastern Alberta.

The change aims to eliminate any acronyms from the name, along with the references to gender, age, or religion. This also more accurately reflects that the organization provides programs beyond the geographical boundaries of Medicine Hat.

“We have offered programs outside of Medicine Hat since 2017, most notably in Brooks and Redcliff, and we want our name to reflect our commitment to serve the region of southeastern Alberta,” said Hayward.

The name change does not impact or change any existing programming, nor does it change where the organization is headquartered. Over the next several months, residents can expect to see facility signage updated with the organization’s new name.

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