2023 was the year when we started to implement our new Strategic Plan for the next three years, as part of the initiative for further strengthening and sustainable development of YMCAs in the Western Balkans.

Based on this Plan, we have provided services that empower young people and help develop the community; offered opportunities to young people to increase their capacities in various fields, thanks to the cooperation of our center with partner organizations and institutions at the local, national and international level.

Incorporating the Vision 2023 of YMCA Europe and the World Alliance of YMCAs into its National Strategy allows YMCA Albania to align its activities and objectives with the broader global YMCA movement. This integration ensures that YMCA Albania contributes to the collective mission and vision of YMCAs worldwide, fostering unity and synergy in its efforts.

Throughout our journey this year, we have provided daily services to all ages and less privileged groups, through our digital community spaces, where mentors have not only provided knowledge and help to access digital and computing platforms, but have also been able to provide a friendly space, connect the beneficiaries with the services or institutions they need and where everyone had a safe space.

With the same enthusiasm, we have worked with young people towards their empowerment on important issues and areas such as participation in decision-making, advocacy for their rights and the communities they belong to; education on issues of gender equality, human rights, peace and intercultural coexistence; education and application of environmentally friendly practices towards finding more sustainable ways of managing natural resources, recycling and reusing them, serving to the community or less advantaged groups.

Eglantina Lula
Executive Director – YMCA Albania