Lynda Gonzales-Chavez, YMCA of the USA

      U.S. Census data indicates that 13% of the US population is foreign-born and more than 34% is African-American, Asian and Hispanic/Latino. By 2050, these numbers are projected to grow to 20% and 53% respectively. Demographic shifts in the US present philanthropic opportunities and potential challenges if YMCA leaders are not prepared to effectively engage and include diverse populations. Cultural competencies, along with intentional engagement strategies are imperative for YMCAs to remain relevant as communities become more diverse. The ability to build relationships with multicultural populations, community stakeholders and foundations is vital to philanthropic success. This interactive workshop will explore new strategies for assessing community demographics, share practical steps for building personal and organizational cultural competencies, examine philanthropic practices from diverse cultural perspectives and present leading practices for successful relationship building and philanthropic engagement with diverse communities and the philanthropic foundations that support multicultural initiatives. As a result of this workshop, participants will:

1. explore new strategies for assessing community demographics
2. share practical steps for building personal and organizational cultural competencies
3. examine philanthropic practices for successful relationship building and philanthropic engagement with diverse communities and the philanthropic foundations that support multicultural initiatives
4. improve Y leaders' knowledge and skills in developing productive and philanthropic relationships with diverse community leaders, foundations and organizations.