only for priv ate distribution t o members...chicken soup for the soul: volunteering & giving...

Fellowship Across the Borders

IP’s Letter: “It has been a very good year” • “Lets us Have the Courage to Challenge and Change” - Interview with IPE Moon Sang-bong •

Area Presidents Elect on the Challenges and Prospects in the Year Ahead •ISG Writes: Three Heads Better than One? • Guest Column: Why

Fit in When You Were Born to Stand Out? • YMI Leaders Stop by Brazil to See TOF-GPF Projects • More Stories from TOF-GPF Projects •

Community Service Stories • Thrust on EMC • Mantra for the Soul : Presente! Basta by Max Ediger

ONLY FOR PRIVATE DISTRIBUTION TO MEMBERS

Nº 4, 2017/18

Fellowship Across the Borders2

Editor’s Page

Official Publication of Y’s Men International / Y Service Clubs International

Headquartered at: Ave Sainte-Clotilde 9, CH-1205, Switzerland

Tel: +41 22 809 1530 :: www.ysmen.org

Edited and published by Koshy Mathew for YMI/YSC International.

Assistant Editors: Tunji Makinde (Africa), Bill Irwin (Canada/Caribbean),

B. Pavithran (India), Kim Kyun (Korea)

Reprinted at the National Printing Press, Koramangala, Bangalore, India

and distributed by Babu Oommen (India).

Cover picture: From the Facebook page of Y Service Club of Bendigo, Australia.

The sale of preloved books twice a year raises money for the YMCA in Bendigo.

This picture is from the recent sale during Easter. Inset is the flyer that

announces the activity.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Volunteering & Giving Back:

101 Inspiring Stories of Purpose and Passion by Amy

Newmark, Mary Vigliante Szydlowski

One person can make a significant difference in the lives of

others. This collection of 101

inspiring stories celebrates

volunteers and those who give

back, and also shows how the

biggest beneficiaries are the

givers themselves.

Volunteers and people

who give back are models of

unconditional kindness,

compassion, and love. You

choose hope over despair,

optimism over cynicism, and

caring over indifference. And

by serving others, you also

help yourself. In this inspiring

collection of 101 personal stories by and for volunteers and

those who give back, you and your fellow unsung heroes will

get some of the recognition and appreciation you deserve. (less)

(A Goodreads review)

Dear reader,

Yet another year in the life of our Movement comes to

a close in a few days and I am happy to

present the last issue of YMI World for

the year.

This issue carries a detailed scan of

the plans and aspirations of the

leadership that will take charge of the

organisation at the International and

Area levels. IPE Moon Sang-bong was

in India in the early part of the year for

the training of RDsE and DGsE. Owing to a packed

schedule he could not give much time to an interview we

had sought. But, he was gracious enough to answer our

questions by email later and they are carried in this issue.

IPE Moon asserts that change is what is demanded and

that we must have the courage to challenge and change for

the better. Likewise, we accessed the documents of the Mid

Year Meeting of the International Council held at

Valparaiso, Chile and culled the relevant parts of incoming

Area Presidents reports to give our readers a flavour of the

aspirations of our Area leaders. IPE Moon and all Area

Presidents have set for themselves highly laudable tasks in

the year ahead and we wish them the best.

The global concern we chose to bring to your attention

through this issue is ‘Diversity at the workplace’, an issue

that many of us tend to brush under the carpet. Living and

working in a multicultural atmosphere and context it is

imperative for us to be sensitive to this issue. Dr. Tom

Verghese, an international consultant and cultural coach,

as his bio-data says, was recently in India for some personal

engagements and we caught up with him for a chit chat.

His assertion that diversity in any workplace cannot be

fully realised without an equal focus on inclusion is a point

to ponder. He goes on to say, “If we define diversity as all

the ways we are different – that which is the human

condition, then inclusion is our ability to value, recognise

and appreciate these differences.” Diversity in any workplace

cannot be fully realised without an equal focus on

inclusion. If we define diversity as all the ways we are

different – that which is the human condition, then

inclusion is our ability to value, recognise and appreciate

these differences. We are grateful to Dr. Tom for permission

to use his blog in this issue of YMI World.

ISG Nishi reflects briefly on the importance of the troika

in our Movement. It is a leadership formula that has been

followed by us and in many other service organisations for

a long time. Such leadership ensures continuity of thought

and action, yet gives the flexibility of each leader to propose

new ideas.

This issue also contains many stories from the TOF-

GPF projects, mainly from Latin America. It was good

that some of our leaders and staff members from IHQ were

able to see for themselves these projects and endorse the

value that it brought to social change in these societies.

Finally, the book that we have chosen to share with

you this time is one from the famous ‘chicken soup for the

soul’ titles. It contains 101 inspiring stories of purpose

and passion on volunteering and giving back to the society.

We hope you enjoy it.

Hope to see you all in Yeosu at IC 2018.

Koshy Mathew

FROM MY BOOKSHELFFROM MY BOOKSHELFFROM MY BOOKSHELFFROM MY BOOKSHELFFROM MY BOOKSHELF

Fellowship Across the Borders 3

FROM THE INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENTFROM THE INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENTFROM THE INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENTFROM THE INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENTFROM THE INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT

My duties as International President are soon coming to an

end. “It has been a very good year,” is the title of one of the

songs performed by Frank Sinatra about 50 years ago. Sinatra

mentioned all the girls he had met.

I like to change the subject and

think about all the wonderful

people I have met from all over the

world on various occasions and

visits through this year.

My IP year started last year in

St. Petersburg, Russia, where I

attended the Russian Regional

Conference on 1 July and the 25th

year jubilee of the brother club to

my home club. Having been an Area Europe Mentor for

Russia for several years, this was a very symbolic way to stop

my work as such as I started as IP on the same day. Later, I

travelled to South Korea, India, United States, Thailand

and several places in Europe in my capacity as International

President.

Everywhere I went I met dedicated Y’s Men, willing to

serve and to work in their local community either as Y’s

Men or in cooperation with the local YMCA. I have been

included in their local fellowship, and I established

friendships all across the globe.

I feel we are all a part of a big family, where friendship

really exists across the borders, and where we, in spite of

coming from different cultures, also are moving forward

together.

To be an International President is not only to travel,

but to represent and to celebrate. It also includes a lot of

hard deskwork, day and night, sitting at the computer in

online meetings and staying in tune with members across

the globe. The position has given me big challenges,

negotiations, even frustrations, but mostly joy, excitement

and thankfulness for being privileged to serve others by

“It has been a very good year”

acknowledging the duty that accompanies every right.

Being an International President also means teamwork.

As a member of the IP troika and the IEOs (International

Executive Officers), I have been working very close with my

colleagues in these positions during my IP term. We have

really learnt to know each other well, and I must say that I

regard them as close and personal friends. They stand up for

each other when needed, giving help and assistance when

challenges appear. I am also very grateful for the good team

work I have been able to share with the Area leaders and the

ICMs. Also, thanks for all the encouragement I have received.

As our positions shall soon be taken over by others, I am

happy to say that I have a local club where I belong and

where I shall gradually return. It is crucial that we, as

international leaders, remember where we started as Y’s Men,

and that the clubs and their lives are the basis for the existence

of the Y’s Men’s Movement.

My motto as IP has been ‘Let us walk in the Light –

Together’. It is my hope and my prayer that our wonderful

movement globally shall continue to walk in the same

direction, prepared to meet the rapidly approaching 2022,

when our 100th year anniversary will be celebrated. Time is

running fast, and we are already making preparations for the

anniversary, preparing ourselves for an organisation which is

going forward, being visible in the local community and

attractive to new members, strengthen our relations with

YMCA and also serve locally and globally to help those in

need.

I have felt God’s blessings in my IP term, he has been

walking besides me and it is my prayer that God will keep

his hand over my successor, Moon Sang-bong, when he soon

takes my position.

Asker, Norway Henry J Grindheim

June 2018 IP 2017/2018

International President (2016-17) inducts Henry Grindheim as IP-Elect in Taipei,

Taiwan, August 2016 in the presence of then IPIP Wichian Boonmapajorn

Planning togther with Area leaders at the MYM in Las Vegas 2017


ONE-ON-ONEONE-ON-ONEONE-ON-ONEONE-ON-ONEONE-ON-ONE

“Lets us Have the Courage to Challenge and Change”IPE Moon Sang-bong

YMI World: You have identified four

“Challenges” that you wish to tackle

in your tenure, namely fall in

membership, ageing membership,

‘disagreements’ about religious

identity, and ‘inefficiency’ of

organisation. What exactly do you

have in mind when you say

‘disagreements with religious

identity’? Has it got something to do

with the organisation’s roots in the

YMCA or it something localised and

contemporary?

IPE: As we all know, Paul William

Alexander founded Y’s Men

International to serve the community,

support the YMCA and build a better

world for humankind by improving

the life of others “based on the

teachings of Jesus Christ.” This

founding spirit of YMI can be seen as a

valuable philosophy in a globalised era

where many cultures and diverse ideas

co-exist. In order to create a better

world by harmonising different

cultures and religious backgrounds, it

is necessary not only to have harmony

and fellowship within a particular

religion but also to have mutual

cooperation between different cultures

and multicultural countries.

As part of Y’sdom’s expansion,

there have been many long-standing

disagreements about religious

identities because of the narrow

understanding of the founding spirit.

Therefore, I would encourage to

promote inter-religious service

activities that strengthen our identity,

led by the basis of Jesus’ teachings, and

enhance our relationship with various

religions and their associated services.

For this, I think we should openly

collaborate on service activities of

various religious groups.

I look forward to promoting

multicultural club activities in line

with our organisation’s objectives and

programmes. We will lead the growth

of Y’sdom by actively encouraging

activities that have common interests

and universal value with all religious

people. You will be able to witness

this cooperation with and among

many faith groups during the

International Convention in Yeosu.

YMI W: Coming to the “Goals” part

of the document, I think you have set

a realistic growth in membership of

10 per cent. This is laudable. When

you say you wish to cultivate a

“devoted and enthusiastic leadership,”

you must be having some definite

ideas in mind. Your thoughts, please.

IPE: YMI needs new leadership to

celebrate its centennial in 2022. As

you know, changes in our organisation

are beginning to accelerate - IHQ’s role

will be minimal, policies will be

established to strengthen the Regions,

the Satellite Office will be well

established in Thailand and the new

Secretary General will be welcomed in

October 2018. It is therefore

important to have the right leadership

leading the era of change.

Based on this leadership, we will

strengthen our dedicated membership

development, find new conceptual

club activities such as professional

clubs and hobby clubs, and actively

cooperate with the YMCA. Dedicated

members are the owners of our

Movement and must actively

participate in local community

development through club activities.

You can understand my theme in

the sense of being a dedicated member,

“Yes, We can Change!” and my slogan

is “Courage to Challenge.” There are

requirements for change. First, the role

of the leader is important. One has to

be motivated to have vision. There

must be members who agree with the

leader’s decision to pursue change.

And we need leaders to give members

reasonable assurance of new options.

Let’s have the courage to challenge and

change. Let’s make a new change every

day!

YMI W: “New concept clubs” is

something that we first heard about a

year ago. No convincing idea of what

shape will this take has been available

so far. Please enlighten our readers on

this.

IPE: I have set the following goals

in creating clubs and the new concept

clubs:

First, maximise international

volunteerism through effective

coordination with the YMCA and

other international service networks

from planning through to

implementation. Second, build a solid

and inclusive club organisation that

can accommodate youth and youth

IPE Moon Sang-bong elaborates his “Vision, Goals and Priorities.” YMI World Editor Koshy Mathew spoke to him on the sidelines of

RDE Training in Kochi, Kerala, India in February and followed it up with a set of questions. The following are the questions and

responses offered by IPE Moon.


members. Third, establish a healthy

and inclusive club organisation that

can serve a variety of religious people.

Based on these, I think we can

organise thematic club activities

focusing on hobbies and social

interests of members. I think it will be

a broader activity if it is related to club

activities by using advanced

information technology.

YMI W: You also mention

“cooperation with YMCA” as one of

the goals. Is this not happening,

especially in Europe and the Western

hemisphere in a big way? Should this

be made a mandatory universal goal

for all Areas, especially in countries

where Christian faith-based

organisations and their activities are

viewed suspiciously?

This is a global goal. In support of

the YMCA in the background of Y ‘s

Men, we can say that we are carrying

out our mission of supporting and

nurturing young people, the next

generation of leaders. Regardless of

your geographic location, you need to

restore and strengthen the relationship

between the two organisations. In this

regard, we invited around 30 young

and talented liaison officers of the

YMCA from around the world to

come to the 2018 International

Convention.

YMIW:As a “Vision” you mention

that you’d like to implement “result

oriented activities.” Such as?

IPE: It is my vision that Y ‘s Men’s

international service will be a solution

to many disputes and challenges of

less-developed countries through the

implementation of results-oriented

activities.

We will improve our self-esteem

and our role through real activities to

solve the pressing problems of creating

a better world.

We will focus on the growth of

strategic partnerships with

organisations beyond our current YMI

scope.

By doing so, our Movement can

carry out the true service activities

required by this society. As a result, a

robust and comprehensive program

structure is built naturally to enable

supporters and donors to actively

participate. Government, civil society

organisations, and the private sector

can achieve consensus and we can

expand the YMI partnership to

provide solutions to local emergencies.

YMIW: You also mention

“partnership with other

organisations.” Apart from the

YMCA, is there any other particular

organisation you have in mind? Do

you have a blueprint for a

partnership?

IPE: Our partnerships are about

developing our organisation to achieve

our mission and goals. Therefore, we

will link with the various systems of

the United Nations, together with the

International Federation of Red Cross

and Red Crescent Societies, which is

involved for community development.

In particular, we will work closely

with the ECOSOC with which YMI

has a consultative status. Each regional

continental headquarters of

ECOSOC and our Area/Regional

offices will be encouraged to plan joint

projects dealing with youth issues and

regional development issues.

We also plan to interact with

international multi-religious service

organisations to promote diverse

religious services. For example, during

the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics,

YMI already participated in the Global

Business Peace Prize as a partner. It was

an opportunity for businessmen from

around the world to contribute to

peace beyond the walls of religion by

the United Nations, the Olympic

Organising Committee, and the

Interfaith Peace Foundation.

YMIW: You have identified Youth as a

priority area and you mention that

you have “leadership training” as one

of the thrust areas. Is this going to

take shape as a new priority area with

Service Directors in charge, just as the

LTOD for members?

IPE: This is an important challenge

for us. Our organisation already has

the International Service Director for

Youth Involvement and Activities and

the Youth Development Task Force.

Through pilot projects at the club and

community level, we plan to improve

youth

leadership,

educate

youth

leaders in

the most

efficient

way, and

create a

concrete

foundation

for youth.

This Movement is not just us, and

it has a motive to revitalise the

YMCA’s Uni-Y. The two organisations

must work together in an effort to

revitalise college-based clubs.

YMIW Finally, you suggest a “Y’s

Men Legacy Project.” Any more

thoughts on this? It is a good idea,

especially in the light of the upcoming

Centenary celebrations in 2022.

Congratulations for this.

IPE: The future is another changed

gift through the window of the past.

The succession and development of

the founding spirit of Paul William

Alexander will be a special project to

establish our tradition and promise a

new future. Reviewing the legacy of

our founder while commemorating

the 100th anniversary of our

organisation is not only an engine that

changes stagnant reality, it also

increases Y’s Men’s pride.

I think it is more meaningful when

this project is implemented through

contributions from leaders and

members. Task Force teams will be

organised to identify events and draft

specific plans.

I have no doubt that leaders and

members will play an important role

in driving this particular initiative.

YMIW: Thank you and wish you all

the best for a fruitful year and

decisive leadership.


ASPIRATIONALASPIRATIONALASPIRATIONALASPIRATIONALASPIRATIONAL

Challenges and Prospects in the Year Ahead

Hiroyuki Tanaka, Area Asia Pacific

APE Hiro used a SWOT analysis for his report.

He wishes to continue joint RDE training with

Area Korea. His current focus is on AC 19 in

Sendai. But during his term, he hopes to address

the topic of ageing membership and work

positively with YMCA (APAY) and the AP Troika.

He also plans to revive the Area website during

his term.

His theme is “Action!” and the slogan is

“With Pride and Pleasure.”

(Based on Reports of Area Presidents Elect to the Mid Year Meeting of International Council, February 2018)

Sherif Awad Shoukry, Area Africa

Sherif made a case for reduction in dues for

Africa and others in similar situation in the light

of the challenging economic times. A detailed

financial “bail-out” plan to manage past unpaid

dues in Area Africa was being worked out in

consultation with the International Executive

Officers.

The priorities include confronting the

problems facing African Y’sdom and discussing

the Area’s needs with experienced Y’s leaders. Among the long-term

goals are membership and club extension, identifying quality members,

tackling ignorance about the Movement by providing training to new

members and leaders and encouraging youth participation through

mentorship.

Reginald Springer, Area Canada/Caribbbean

Reg Springer explained that the amalgamation

of the Areas CAC and USA is at a standstill. In

his Area, it is felt that the decision to eliminate

small club exemptions needs further study (ICM

17 motion approved by club vote in January

2018). Clubs are concerned that members may

quit and club affiliation with YMI would

diminish.

The Area’s primary success was its involvement

in the Joint Area Convention at Las Vegas, although not many members

from Canada/Caribbean attended.

The Youth Forum finally took shape and the plan is to give their

best to assist youth in the new year.

Poul-Henning Løwendahl, Area Europe

Poul shared that he wants Area Europe to work

with Diakonia, a Swedish faith-based t

organisation providing committed support to

local partners undertaking sustainable

development projects and humanitarian action.

Locally, he will focus on the homeless and refugees.

He will encourage clubs to invite those living on

the street to join a club meeting as guests of honour

speaking about their experiences in exchange for

food under the theme, “ You give us a story, and we give food.”

K.C. Samuel, Area India

Samuel has a concrete plan to sustain

membership and promote growth. The Inter-

District General Forum (IDGF) will involve

potential new members, giving them the

opportunity to learn about the Movement and

what it means to be a part of a service community.

Training at all level will be made mandatory and

a special team is being in place to accomplish

this.

Membership reporting in India is a concern and a concrete plan

to address that in consultation with the Regional Directors has been

chalked out so that IHQ has timely, accurate information at the bi-

annual deadlines.

Cha Young-doo, Area Korea

Cha Young-doo explains that it his priority is to

provide consistent work while addressing the

challenges of his predecessors. He wants to

complete work on the Training Centre for Area

Korea.

He seeks to strengthen ties with YMCA and

encourage joint programmes with them so that

members of both members organisations stand

to benefit. Image building to attract new members

is also on the list of short term goals. However, all efforts will be geared

towards making IC 2018 a grand success.

His theme: Make This World More Beautiful, and his slogan: Happy

Community with Y’s Men!

Sonja Marly Müller, Area Latin America

Sonja shared that communication is a problem,

particularly in Brazil Region, as computer usage

and literacy are low, mainly due to the advanced

age of members. At the same time, face-to-face

training is not always easy because of the large

geographic size of the Area.

On a positive note, the charter process for

two new clubs in Colombia is close to completion

as part of the intensive push for extension.

Tibor Foki, Area USA

Tibor says that approximately 45% of clubs in

the USA are agreeable to a merger of Areas USA

and CAC. However, further study and analysis

are needed to determine best implementation

practices. He is happy with the USA’s progress in

using Portalbuzz.

Like AP Reg (CAC ), he suggested that ICM

reconsider club voting requirements, expressing

his opinion that Council may not have

understood all the issues when passing the motion last summer to

eliminate exemptions.

His long-term goals include working with the youth with a view to

the future

6


Three Heads Better than One?

ISG WRITESISG WRITESISG WRITESISG WRITESISG WRITES

Nishi (Takao Nishimura), International Secretary General

The Y’s Men’s activity year of 2017/2018

comes to an end in June and many Areas,

Regions and

Districts might

have had their

Conventions

or Conferenc

es where

members have

shown their

appreciation for the outgoing leaders

and welcomed new leaders. Last year,

the International Council Meeting held

at Las Vegas approved a motion amend-

ing the text of Guideline 301 to read as:

A group of people of at least three (3) mem-

bers organised as a unit of this Association

shall be called a club.

It is somewhat similar to what we

have been following for the leadership

– “Troika,” which is also a group of

three people leading the governance

roles in our Movement. Y’s Men

traditionally has been using this system

which requires an elected officer to serve

for a minimum of three years, for

example, in the case of Regional

Director (RD), the first year as RD Elect

, then as RD, and as Immediate Past

RD and then as a Past RD. This is one

of the greatest leadership mechanisms

devised not just for administration but

also for good governance. The reason

for this is obvious – no leader thinks

only his or her year has to be “successful”

and be selfish.

There is another way of governing

the organisation or association; it’s a

longer term, say 4 or 5 years and when

the leadership changes, most of the staff

members also change. We also need to

seek what is best for our organisation

in the future knowing that our main

purpose is to do service and not merely

run an organisation. However, due to

the ageing issue faced by many

countries, it may be more difficult to

find leaders to serve for long years.

Hence, the Troika offers good support

to achieve the task with three leaders.

In politics, it is normal to reverse

the decisions of the previous leadership,

and sometimes it is necessary. However,

to achieve the agreed the mission of the

organisation, we need to work with

leaders of the past and of the future,

especially with YMCA at many levels.

By the time this issue is published,

you already would know who my

successor is. I will hand over the official

role of ISG to them as soon as they are

able to start work. I will also have time

with them until the end of February

2019 planning the transition. I am sure

they will be bring new spirit and

enthusiasm in working with our leaders

of this wonderful Movement of ours

Towards 2022 and beyond.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart;

do not depend on your own

understanding. Seek his will in all you

do, and he will show you which path

to take. (Proverbs 3: 5, 6)

God Bless Troika!

More horsepower!

7

After Yeosu, it’ll be Odense!


BY INVITEBY INVITEBY INVITEBY INVITEBY INVITE

Diversity in our workplaces is important.

It is widely acknowledged that diversity

in our leadership

teams matters. It is

imperative for any

organisation that

wants to achieve and

remain competitive.

Diversity helps to

generate new ideas,

drive creativity, and meet market needs;

it also reflects our own communities.

Diversity Matters Study

While the benefits are many and

varied, a recent study by McKinsey &

Company called ‘Diversity Matters’

found that companies in the top quartile

of gender diversity were 15 per cent more

likely to have financial returns above their

national industry median.

The authors contend the more diverse

an organisation is the more successful

they are at winning top talent, customer

orientation, employee satisfaction and

effective decision-making.

The study found that no organisation

performed well in all areas of diversity.

While policies differ between countries,

a common approach has been to adopt

a single diversity programme that covers

all areas from gender and age, to race,

ethnicity, sex, religion and disability.

This can mean some more visible areas

of diversity such as gender, have received

more focus than others, namely race and

ethnicity.

The overall current characterisation

and management of diversity is too

Why Fit in When You Were Born to Stand Out?The Case for Workplace Diversity and Inclusion

Tom Verghese

arrangements, allowance for career breaks

and mentoring opportunities.

Managing a Diverse Organisation

Diversity and Inclusion is not an easy

undertaking. Managing a diverse

organisation is far more difficult than

managing a homogenous one, and it

requires a completely different skillset.

Leaders must step up to the

challenge and push past the latent

philosophy of maintaining status quo,

and the attitude of ‘why change

something if it is not broken’.

Specific programmes like

unconscious bias training or mentoring

need to be implemented, as they make

real headway into changing attitudes,

behaviours and outcomes.

Why, What and How?

In conclusion, I would like to put

forward three questions organisations

can ask when approaching Diversity and

Inclusion (D&I):

w WHY – Establish the reasons

why D&I is important for them

w WHAT – Educate leaders on

D&I, bias and its impact on

decision-making

w HOW – Examine the policies

and processes that systematically

re-enforce the current state

Leaders must also visibly

demonstrate that they believe in the

value of D&I in a way that influences,

promotes and inspires others to commit.

As the authors of ‘Diversity Matters’

point out we “must do more to take

full advantage of the opportunity that

diverse leadership teams represent… we

live in a global world that has become

deeply interconnected.” This research

serves as a testament to what has been

achieved so far, and a reminder that there

is still much work to be done.

Dr. Tom Verghese is an internationally renowned

consultant, presenter, executive cultural coach, author

and founder of Cultural Synergies, Melbourne,

Australia. Tom’s expertise is cultural intelligence,

inclusive and ethical leadership and the promotion of

sustainable global leadership and high performing

international teams.

broad, it commands greater depth. A

more individualised, tailored approach

is required.

Furthermore, diversity in any

workplace cannot be fully realised

without an equal focus on inclusion. If

we define diversity as all the ways we are

different – that which is the human

condition, then inclusion is our ability

to value, recognise and appreciate these

differences.

Diversity in any workplace

cannot be fully realised

without an equal focus on

inclusion. If we define

diversity as all the ways

we are different – that

which is the human

condition, then inclusion

is our ability to value,

recognise and

appreciate these

differences.

It is possible for organisations to hire

a diverse workforce without considering

inclusion policies. We see ‘in’ and ‘out’

groups start to form, and those in the

‘out’ groups (typically those in

demographic minorities) less likely to stay

in their roles.

Attraction and retention are equally

important; they must therefore must be

given equal effort. With a gender focus,

inclusion on a basic level means making

women feel welcome and valued in the

workplace. This can be reflected in

policies such as f lexible work

8


TOF-GPF PROJECTSTOF-GPF PROJECTSTOF-GPF PROJECTSTOF-GPF PROJECTSTOF-GPF PROJECTS

YMI Leaders Stop by Brazil to See TOF-GPF ProjectsOn their way home to India after attending the Mid-Year

Meeting (MYM) 2018 in Viña del Mar, Chile, in February,

International Treasurer Philips Cherian, together with Past

International President (PIP) Isaac Palathinkal and Time of

Fast Global Project Fund (TOF-GPF) Committee

Chairperson T.M. Jose made a short stopover in São Paulo,

Brazil with the express purpose of visiting Y’s Men’s Clubs

and their projects.

They witnessed the great community service being done,

with the clubs’ support, by the local YMCA Community

Development Centres (CDCs), several of which have been

granted funding for TOF-GPF projects in the past, bearing

their fruits today. Philips felt that the exemplary community

service conducted in collaboration with the YMCA and the

recognition and appreciation given to our Movement and

members should find a place in this YMI World.

In the CDC Santo Amaro, where computers and other

technological support financed by TOF-GPF is received,

children attend morning/afternoon classes for computer and

design training, have lunch, learn cooking and dancing and

enjoy their own library. The focus is kept on imparting

competencies and skills to children, teens and their families,

based on four educational pillars: learn to be; learn to do;

learn to know; and learn to live with.

The YMCA CDC of São Paulo Centre operates from the

Presbyterian Church just across the street from the São Paulo

YMCA. There, children receive instructions in painting and

computers, plus lunch, while sports and swimming classes

are held at the YMCA. The Y’s Men’s Club of São Paulo

Centro, the oldest in Brazil (chartered in 1957 and with its

own day for recognition marked in the city official calendar)

supports this CDC and provides milk for the children.

The YMCA CDC “Enturmando Vila Ré” is notable for

its Circus School. Under a real circus tent, hanging with

messages on values, children have various activities: music,

dance, arts plus, of course, circus acts. Performing circus acts

in the much-loved tent, they learn to trust others and

themselves, to depend on and stand for their companions.

Their helping hand is all the support needed. When circus

garments and an appreciative public are added, this is the

sure way to the children’s self-esteem, the first step towards

self-development. The children also receive lunch, enriched

with the produce of the organic vegetable garden they cultivate.

Several TOF-GPF projects in the Guarulhos YMCA

CDC, dating back to 1991, have been the motor for the

community growth and development over the years, with

factories and wholesalers finding their way to this vital spot

where trained human power is available. In the intervening

years, the YMCA CDC has continued educating children

and teenagers, teaching them dance, painting, growing exotic

fruits and vegetables in an organic orchard and providing

lunches, while also imparting craft classes like carpentry,

With Brazil RD Eunice Chiaradia, Santo Amaro YMC President Nancy A.

Gimenez and members, YMCA staff

Vila Re children and YMI visitors under the circus school tent

Children ready to prepare fruit jam

9


A team of Korean Y’s Men medical professionals recently visited Myanmar,

providing basic health services exams and treatment to several people,

especially children, in remote rural areas. Undaunted by the challenges of

importing medical supplies into a foreign country and working as legitimate

healthcare providers there, this team was able, with the help of the local

YMCAs, to offer fundamental health and hygiene services to those for whom

they would otherwise be inaccessible because of cost and/or distance to the

nearest clinic.Source: Facbook page of TOF-GPF projects

10


tailoring, cloth printing

and so on to grown-ups in

their path to steady work.

TOF-GPF has really helped

the Guarulhos YMCA to

make a change, to build

strong families and a strong

community. Because of its

help has its own

supporting Y’s Men’s

Club, the Uirapuru

Guarulhos.

The YMCA CDC Itaquera works with children and

teenagers through projects like “Value Life” and “Sowing in

the CDC,” the latter for an organic vegetable garden. Support

from TOF-GPF has been received for education in

technology towards a successful future. One of their

programmes involves a sleep over, for better integration and

participation in the diverse activities. It is important, and

perhaps unusual and also most rewarding, that on the last

Friday of every month they meet to talk about YMI and

their support for the Y’s Men’s Club of Itaquera.

Eunice Chiaradia, Brazil RD

with Silvya Reyes de Croci

IT Philips tries his hand at cloth printing

Boys and girls of the YMCA Guarulhos CDC

Y’s Men Doctors’ Free Medical Service

On the job: Getting ready to administer a shot

10



Tracy Movigliatti of IHQ writes: I had the

opportunity to visit the TOF-GPF project, “Building

Community in Situations of Critical Social

Vulnerability in Marginalised Neighbourhoods of

Valparaiso,” in Chile sponsored by Y’s Men and

YMCA of Valparaiso while in Chile for the Mid-

Year Meeting 2018. I was impressed and could

clearly see that the all programmes were carefully

coordinated to best serve the targeted community,

involving the marginalised families (both children

and parents) in the planning and implementation.

Initiatives include school tutoring, barrel/garbage

can painting and a community garden. During my

visit, there was much excitement about and

planning for an upcoming camp retreat for local

families. I recently requested an update, and take

pleasure in sharing the response received.

“Summer is hot; vulnerable families

cannot enjoy vacations outside the

home. Children and adolescents do not

have major distractions, like adults.

Internal and extra family conflicts arise

(with) a lot of leisure and free time.

Thanks to the TOF-GPF project of Y’s

Men International, we carried out a

Family Camp in the Recreation Centre

of the YMCA of Valparaiso in a pre-

cordilleran (selected mountain) area.

And this was an initiative of the parents

themselves and adult participants of the

project, who wanted to spend time on

Building Community in Situations of Critical Social Vulnerability

to their children, husbands or

neighbours, sharing (time together).

They marvelled at the starry sky of

nights in the countryside. They arrived

(home) renewed in spirit with less stress

and less depression. It was a fantastic

experience that will never be forgotten.

Some families said that they had never

taken vacation and that everything was

wonderful, (beyond what they had)

dreamed. Thank you Y’s Men

International for this wonderful gift to

these families and neighbours who

enjoyed unforgettable moments.”

vacation with their children, nephews

and neighbours.

There was much expectation and joy

on the day that the family camp was

announced. Forty-two participants, 30

leaders and volunteers, including

children, adolescents, parents, senior

citizens and neighbours, were registered.

The four days flew by, distributed

among recreation, excursions, water

poses, resting, spiritual activities, night

games and a bonfire. Everyone wanted

to stay longer. Parents and relatives

highlighted the opportunity to be close

It’s play time at the camp

A visit to the Comfort Care Centre was successfully

carried out recently by the members of the Silver State

Y Service Club, Malaysia.

Ten members, families and friends brought a bit of

cheer to the 65 residents of the home who were

discharged from a mental hospital and have no homes

and family to turn to. The caretaker, 80-year-old Nurse

Ong, with help from her family and some residents

runs the home and is badly in need of financial

assistance. She deserves all kudos for her selfless and

good work. The club contributed buffet lunch, groceries

and a token sum of angpow money and a pot of porridge.

Source: Facbook page of Silver State Y Service Club

Comfort and Care for the Mentally Challenged

COMMUNITY SERVICECOMMUNITY SERVICECOMMUNITY SERVICECOMMUNITY SERVICECOMMUNITY SERVICE

11


COMMUNITY SERVICECOMMUNITY SERVICECOMMUNITY SERVICECOMMUNITY SERVICECOMMUNITY SERVICE

In October 2017, Kyoto District of Japan West Region invited

young football players of Kumamoto to a special Y’s Men’s

programme in Kyoto. Kumamoto was the affected area of

the big earthquake that occurred in April 2106. They watched

the professional soccer match between the teams of Kyoto

and Kumamoto and during half-time, marched with Y’s Men

on the track.

They enjoyed a friendship soccer game with a boys’ team

in Kyoto the next day.

We collected about USD 3,500 for the Disaster

Reconstruction Support Fund by selling tickets and raising

funds on the street, which was later donated to Kumamoto

YMCA.Tsutomu Ohno, RD, Japan West Region

The Ballarat community (in

Australia) benefits greatly from

voluntary community service.

Ballarat Y’s Men’s Club, now in its

78th year, of which I am a member,

has contributed to projects along

with Rotary clubs, Lions clubs,

church groups, and many special

voluntary committees. Fundraising

for YMCA included construction

and sale of two homes, car shows,

trade exhibitions, sponsored walks,

Christmas tree sales along with

annual community festivals, etc. Our

individual members also provide

support to many community groups.

One of my personal service

committees has special significance this

year (2018), it being the centenary of

the end of World War I. This committee

maintains, protects and enhances the

Ballarat Arch of Victory and Avenue of

Remembering War Heroes of Yore

Honour. In 1917 the management of

textile company, E Lucas & Co., and

the 450 ‘Lucas Girls’ – employees –

offered to finance and plant an avenue

of trees to honour all who voluntarily

enlisted from Ballarat in World War I.

Between 1917 and 1919, 3801 trees

were planted along 22 kilometres of a

road, each with a personal name plaque.

This included 58 nurses who enlisted

to serve the nation during this

horrendous war. The Avenue is the

longest of its type in Australia and,

possibly, the world. In 1920 the Arch

of Victory (pic on left) was added as a

gateway to the Avenue. This was

opened by the then Prince of Wales,

who became King Edward VIII.

Supporting the Earthquake-Stricken Area

Young footballers of Kumamoto march with Y’s Men for disaster relief

Bruce E Price (third from left) in a celebratory mood

In 1931 the Arch of Victory/

Avenue of Honour Committee was

formed. I have been President of that

voluntary committee for 38 years

following on from my grandfather

and father.

Other projects have included

building of an engraved Memorial

Wall and construction of an award-

winning dual Freeway Overpass

linking infrastructure and heritage. In

2017 a special National ‘Garden of

the Grieving Mother’, featuring a

bronze statue of a mother was opened

by the Governor General of Australia. It

represents families and friends at home

who experienced anxiety and grief. The

eminent sculptor, Peter Corlett OAM

has created other statues at memorial

sites including Fromelles, France and

Beersheba in the Middle East. An

ongoing project has already involved

replacing 2,100 trees over 20 years to

ensure the future of the Avenue. Some

of these projects were supported by

Government grants but all involved

important voluntary community service.

Bruce E Price

International President 1977-78

(Ballarat, Victoria, Australia)

12


An Extension and Membership

Conservation (EMC) Symposium

jointly organised by the four districts in

the Kanto area in the Japan East Region

was held on Saturday, 17 February 2018.

The Districts were Toshin, Kanto-tobu,

Azusa and Shonan-Okinawa Districts,

and many members participated.

The theme of the symposium was the

most important issue, the future of

EMC. After listening to the

presentations by four newly inducted

members, participants engaged in an

enthusiastic discussion on the theme. At

the end, all the participants unanimously

adopted a resolution (see next column)

and vowed to strengthen our efforts for

extension and membership con-

servation.Jiro Kurimoto,

RD, Japan East Region

A Pledge to Prioritise EMC

EMC Symposium in progress

RESOLUTION

We became members of the Y’s Men’s Club with pride and have pleasure in supporting the purpose, motto and

the Constitution of Y’s Men International and that of the Japan East Region. We are actively engaged in club

activities and wish to continue and develop this Movement.

However, to our great regret, it has recently been quite clear that the members are ageing and that the number

of members decreasing. Furthermore, in some areas we have seen a stagnation of activities.

In order to put an end to such circumstances and enable members to participate in enriching activities, we

recognise the need to think what each of us should now do and act. For that purpose, we herein declare our

determination to have a strong will, search for all possibilities, put wisdom and force together, and make change

with our courage.

THRUST ON EMCTHRUST ON EMCTHRUST ON EMCTHRUST ON EMCTHRUST ON EMC

Canberra, the capital city of

Australia, is an interesting and

beautiful place to live. It has

now become the home of many

families who have migrated

from Kerala, a state in Southern

India. Some of the men became

friends while studying at

Sydney University 20 years ago.

They kept up those friendships

over the years as their families

have grown and developed

together.

Mr V.S. Radhakrishnan

from the Y’s Men’s Club in Quilon East,

Kerala, encouraged several of these men

to form a YMI club in Canberra as an

Extension Beyond Borders initiative.

These key men encouraged their friends

to be involved and the group started

meeting about 18 months ago, on

Saturday afternoons with their families.

Club officers were elected and a charity

programme was organised to supply

A Capital Gain!the club officers – President:

Sebastian Mathew, Vice-

President: Jilson Joseph;

Secretary: Joseph George and

Treasurer: Rohith

Radhakrishnan. Also attending

were the families of the

members and IPEE Jennifer

Jones and ICM Russell Jones

from Adelaide. Lovely Indian

food was served to complete

the evening.

Canberra is the second club

in Australia to be formed under

the EBBA initiative, the first being in

Perth, Western Australia. We wish these

club the very best as they meet together

and serve the community in which they

live while finding relevance and

satisfaction in being part of an

International organisation which has a

solid foothold worldwide, including the

home country of these new YMI

members.IPEE Jennifer Jones

healthy food in their community with

the support of the women, led by

President Beenu Jacob and Secretary

Mini Shaju.

On Saturday 28 April, the Y Service

Club of Canberra was formally chartered

into the Australian Region at a special

ceremony conducted by RD Bill

Schmidt. Bill travelled to Canberra from

Bendigo, Victoria with his wife Raelene,

PRD Y’s Menettes. Bill also inducted

Canberra Club with families

13


MANTRA FORMANTRA FORMANTRA FORMANTRA FORMANTRA FOR

THE SOULTHE SOULTHE SOULTHE SOULTHE SOUL Max Ediger*

*Max Ediger directs the School of Peace from Cambodia.

Reprinted with permission of PeaceSigns, the online publication of the Peace and

Justice Support Network of Mennonite Church USA, www.mennolink.org/peace

14

Marilyn Turkovich, interim director of the Charter for

Compassion, wrote on her blog, “There is a tradition in

Latin America of calling out the names of individuals who

have lost their lives in the struggle for human rights and

justice–the individual is named and then “presente” is

intoned. It is a symbol of recognition that their lives were

not lost in vain. We remember them.”

We have a need for heroes – people we can admire for

their courage, outstanding achievements, or noble

qualities. They give us encouragement for difficult tasks,

and also help stimulate our vision for what we want to

do to build a better world. Unfortunately the heroes we

are presented with through movies and television stories

are generally not the ones who promote human rights

and justice/righteousness. That is unfortunate because

the world is filled with such heroes and by recognising

them as “presente” we empower the hope, vision and

energy they brought through their lives.

I think of Monika, a young African woman in Burundi

who challenged me to recognize the racism in my own

life and encouraged me to confront it for self-

transformation. Monika disliked the tribalism which was

rampant in her country during the 1960s and through

her Christian faith and work, she struggled to raise

awareness of it and called for unity among the tribes. She,

along with all of her family members, was killed during a

tribal uprising shortly after I left the country. In my mind,

I see Monika looking up as the machete came down in its

murderous blow and saying a prayer of forgiveness for

those who had not the courage to be transformed. I call

out Monika’s name and say, “presente.”

A young man in Vietnam became a close friend of

mine in 1971. As a high school student he was always

under threat of being drafted into the South Vietnamese

army. He struggled to avoid the draft, telling me he could

not imagine going into a war in which he would have to

kill his own country folk. He yearned for peace and

involved himself in work to make a more peaceful country.

His life was taken from him when he was only 19 in a

strange and unexplainable accident. I call out Yung’s name

and say, “presente.”

Ted Studebaker volunteered to work in Vietnam with

the Church of the Brethren in the early 1970s. He worked

invitesClub leaders to send stories of activities

undertaken with one or more high-

resolution pictures and appropriate

captions. Write-ups must not exceed

150 words.

Readers are also requested to send their

views and notes on matters of concern for

the Movement, globally.

Submit your stories and pictures at:

www.ysmen.org/ymiworld

Last date for submission for next issue:

31 August 2018

with Indigenous people living in the mountainous regions

of South Vietnam to help them improve their agriculture.

He also spoke out strongly against the war, openly sharing

his commitment to live faithfully the Sermon Jesus gave

on the mountainside as told in Matthew 5. Ted was killed

in 1971 when the town in which he was living was caught

in a fire fight between opposing forces. He died, still

strongly committed to his belief that Jesus calls us to

forsake violence and depend on love. I call out the name

Ted Studebaker, and say “presente.”

I am remembering Saw Johnny, a young Karen man

living along the Thai/Burma border. Saw Johnny’s parents

were killed when his village was attacked by the Burmese

military. He fled to a refugee camp inside Thailand along

with other survivors of the attack. He felt great anger at

the Burmese military for the destruction they rained down

on his village and his family. He thought often of revenge.

However, after attending as training course on human

rights and community organizing, he committed his life

to going inside the war zones of Burma to locate groups

Presente! Basta!


of Internally Displaced Persons. He documented the

human rights abuses they had experienced, and also helped

them find ways to grow food even while hiding deep in

the jungle. Saw Johnny developed a dream of a peaceful

land in which people of all ethnicities could live together

in harmony. The work he was doing was dangerous, and

one day he was caught by the Burmese military. For three

days he was tortured before being executed. His dream

for peace lives on and I call out the same of Saw Johnny

and say “presente.”

Basta!Marilyn Turkovich continues her article. “There is

another word that was and continues to be used in Latin

American struggles and that is “Basta!” “Enough.” The

more we collectively shout “Presente!” and “Basta!” the

more we awaken others to our need to act in a different

way—with compassion–and deepen our own commitment

to peace.”

I have been blessed with knowing so many other heroes

who continue to be “presente” with me and who continue

to inspire me to go on with the struggle for a true peace

with justice. Together with them I say, “Basta!” The

violence, anger and hatred does not need to continue.

We as Christian are especially challenged with a new vision

for our world. We may find the challenge too great, but

we can always look at those heroes who gave everything

for peace and justice to draw our own courage and energy.

I thank God for allowing me to know these and so many

other, special heroes.

“You’re blessed when you can show people how to

cooperate instead of compete or fight. That’s when you

discover who you really are, and your place in God’s

family.

“You’re blessed when your commitment to God

provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even

deeper into God’s kingdom.

“Not only that—count yourselves blessed every time

people put you down or throw you out or speak lies

about you to discredit me. What it means is that the

truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable.

You can be glad when that happens—give a cheer, even!—

for though they don’t like it, I do! And all heaven

applauds. And know that you are in good company. My

prophets and witnesses have always gotten into this kind

of trouble.” Matthew 4: 9-12 (The Message)

GOLD 2.0 – Refined and Ready for Use

PROGRAMME UPDATEPROGRAMME UPDATEPROGRAMME UPDATEPROGRAMME UPDATEPROGRAMME UPDATE

After two-and-a-half years of work, the curriculum for a leadership

development program for youth and new members is ready for use.

In order to disseminate the final product as widely as possible during

the next year or so, RDs, RDEs and other Regional leaders who are

involved in supporting efforts to involve young people in the Movement

may note that it is a good tool to provide a good foundation of leadership

development that prepares new members of any age for future

leadership roles.

The current list of contacts is not complete but I hope that you will share

this information with others and invite them to join the GOLD Network.

The goal of the network is to foster discussion and sharing of resources

so that we can build the best possible leadership development curriculum

as the foundation of our current Leadership Training and Organisational

Development (LTOD) work.

When initially designed the GOLD programme was envisaged for use

with our young people, starting with those who attend the International

Youth Convocations (IYC). As the curriculum development progressed

it became evident that the material should be made available to Regions

and clubs as a resource for their new-member training activities.

If you are committed to youth involvement and the best possible training

for them and other new members, I would welcome your comments

and input.

As we go along, I will provide additional details on the different topics

covered and introduce you to other resources that have been

developed for your consideration, for use within your own Regional

training strategy.

I would like to use the official International Facebook page to share

ideas and experiences and as we did in the years leading up to our

Golden Anniversary in 1972, focus on leadership development as an

important key to our success in the years to follow 2022.

The advantages of participating in GOLD 2.0 are found at ysmen.org/

gold.

David Hall, Chair, GOLD 2.0 Task Force

only for priv ate distribution t o members...chicken soup for the soul: volunteering & giving...

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