After this weekend’s tragedy in Charlottesville, Virginia, I write to you today with conviction and hope. I know that our Y, and Y’s across the country and the world, will continue to lead with love and acceptance.   

Our Y is an organization of peace and unity. Our Y must be:

• A place where ALL feel safe and welcomed.
• A place where our core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility are demonstrated daily in our interactions with the community, our members and our program participants.
• A place where we, as cause-driven leaders, work tirelessly to bring people of all backgrounds together to improve our community.
• A place where opportunity is provided for all.  

Thank you for all that you do to spread acceptance and love. The power of our Y is great during these difficult times. We must not allow hate to win.

David Byrd
President and CEO
YMCA OF GREATER KANSAS CITY