What a week we had in Toronto! The big ticket items for me were:
- The amazing venue was a sensation. Most of all I loved the views. Running and riding around the property was a marvellous feeling – so green, and no bears! (Rosie had me spooked)
- The fantastic program, in particular the themes and quality of information.
- Madgy pointing out in the first reflection that that where there is no war, strong YMCA can be.
- The Environics research, wow!
- The Lebanon youth development model and story about the world’s second richest man – or was that Mexico? (I’m with you Mario)
- The recently discovered ‘new’ YMCA in Canada; when Scott shared the story about the YMCA established in the far north of Canada 120 years ago by a missionary.
- Hearing of the major issues in bringing people together because of the discriminatory practices in Third World countries around young people obtaining visas.
- The Toronto teen strategy
- The YMCA of Niagara story.
- Learning about all the wonderful partnerships around the world, and the fabulous philosophy that underpins them.
- Fundraising – it is not about money, it's about relationships and story.
The NYC Y governance approach. - ... and beating Rosi's team in the Race around the World!
4 comments:
ditto for the wonderful experience and comradeship over the week. Special thanks to Toronto for the hospitality and continual food. Airports must assist with memory loss as I was sure Rosi came in first. GO THE ALL BLACKS FOR THIS WEEKEND!!!!!!!!!! To our Australian Cousins, hope to see you all soon. Leigh
Thank you Leigh. I must disagree about Rosi's team, to let her claim to have won smacks of injustice!
For those of you not sure about the "All Blacks" -- I think they are a rugby team that represents a small nation in the South Pacific. Of course to someone from Melbourne this sport is incomprehensible. Still if you'd like to check it out try http://www.abc.net.au/rugbyunion/default.htm
I too am in complete agreement with Leigh and Peter on the fantastic experience, new friends, connections however what about Team #6? If I am not mistaken, it seems clear to me that Team #6 came in first... I am sure I have a picture of us crossing the finish line in one of my pictures...
Fiona
As I remember it, OUR team was the first in the refreshments and food tent - and wasn't that the REAL finish line????
Seriously, the whole training was the best one I have ever had - and I too thank the Toronto Y, the WUN and all the presenters - and EVERY ONE since it was the presence and participation of all of us that made it so rich and worthwhile.
Sheila
Post a Comment