We recognize that the YMCA needs to be a leader in advancing the equity and inclusion of all our members, colleagues, and communities that we serve. We work with our staff teams to listen, learn, and lead a culture of opportunity and inclusivity for all.

As the YMCA, our cause is strengthening communities. Every day we work side-by-side with our neighbors to ensure everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. We believe that all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, gender, economic status, or any other consideration have equal value and deserve equal access to opportunities and respect. Discrimination of any kind has no place in this endeavor.

The Crossroads YMCA is dedicated to making sure that you feel welcome, valued, and safe at any of our Y facilities. This commitment is happening throughout our organization. We aspire to be an ally in the fight for racial justice, diverse ability awareness and economic equality within our communities. We believe that by listening, learning, and leading, we will continue to reach that goal.

Advancing Equity Committee has participated in the following monthly celebrations/recognitions during the year. The list is continuing to grow as our committee's work moves forward. 

• Black History Month
• Women's History Month
• Neurodiversity Month
• Mental Health Awarness Month
• LGBTQ+ PRIDE Month
• National Hispanic Heritage Month

We are committed to ensuring everyone reaches their full potential with dignity. While we haven’t always lived up to that inclusive vision, we have been on a steady journey toward making that powerful aspiration a reality for everyone in the communities we serve.

Today, we recognize that in order to be truly “for all,” we need to lead with equity. That means working with local and global partners to identify and remove the barriers that historically have prevented some of those in our communities from thriving, while ensuring that each individual can access the unique support they need.

The Crossroads YMCA was so honored to participate in the Urban League of Northwest Indiana’s 2024 Diversity & Inclusion Symposium. This year’s theme was Defend Democracy, Demand Diversity and Defeat Poverty. The Crossroads YMCA’s President and CEO Jay Buckmaster, Corporate Board Member, Steph Madison, Whiting Executive Director, Vannessa Hernandez-Orange, VP of People and Culture, Rebecca Cheek, and Executive Assistant, Nicole Ochoa shared the presentation with fellow “Moving the Needle” award winners, Strack & Van Til.

Sessions involved honest discussion on the arduous work it took to implement DEI in the two vastly different types of working environments, positive outcomes achieved so far, challenges faced and how the work continues, and why it is never-ending.

Crossroads YMCA members across Northwest Indiana came together this fall to help in the provision of coats and food this holiday season. Gently used coats, hats and gloves were distributed to several charities for those in need. 515 coats were distributed. In a recent food drive, members donated over 1187 pounds of food, which was delivered to the Food Bank of NWI to help fight food insecurity in our communities. The Advancing Equity Committee thanks you for caring, giving and your willingness to help in Transforming Lake County.

Our Packing Days and Mobile Markets with The Food Bank of NWI happen quarterly to increase our efforts to fight food insecurity in the community.

Carl Zurbriggen

Packing Day w/NWI Food Bank
Corporate

Knowing that there are countless individuals and families with food insecurity was more than a reason to spend half a day volunteering with friends at the Food Bank of NWI. Not only did I have a warm feeling of altruism, I had a blast working alongside a group of like-minded people who want to give back to their community.

Rashaun Cherry

Packing Day & Mobile Market w/NWI Food Bank
Corporate

My name is Rashaun Cherry. The reason why I volunteered is that volunteering strengthens the community, and it gives you a chance to give back. It also gives you a chance to be relieved from the office for a little while. Being able to pass out some food for those that were in need that day, and seeing a smile on their face as they drove away made me feel positive. It made me feel that I was doing good for others in the community, which gave me a sense of accomplishment, knowing that I could help.