The YMCA of the Cayman Islands recently hosted its Annual Board Retreat in Cayman Brac. 14 Board Members and 4 staff spent three days in the Sister Island discussing the organisation’s way forward under the theme “Focus 2020”, while solidifying their strategic objectives for the next five years. A few of the major strategic initiatives involve the Y’s partnership with Little League and renovations to the Field of Dreams, staff recruitment and development, volunteer participation and recognition, as well as future capital plans for a Y facility.

The Y board has been holding annual retreats every year since 2014 making this the 7^th event but it is the first time that the organisation has held one in the Brac. Past retreats have taken place in Grand Cayman and at various Y facilities in Florida. While in the Brac, the group toured the Layman E. Scott High School where the Y hosts the Extended After-School Programme for all primary schools. The group also visited the Cayman Brac Sports Complex, including the pool and new indoor facility for basketball and volleyball.

“I am so pleased that the YMCA board chose to hold its retreat in Cayman Brac. The organisation has been providing a great service for our children in the community with the Extended After-School Programme, and I hope their visits to the various facilities around the island gave them some new ideas on how the Y can expand its reach and influence on the island. Of course, in terms of environment, the Brac provides an ideal backdrop for rest, reflection and inspiration. I hope the board members had an opportunity to do just that during their short stay,” said Hon. Moses Kirkconnell, Minister for Tourism.

“It is important for us as Y Board Members to get together once a year to take stock of where we are as an organisation, to reflect on the Y’s overarching vision and to flesh out our strategic goals and objectives. It is key to our future success,” said YMCA Chairman David Watler. “The Y is very fortunate to have such a dedicated group of board members who give their time and financial support to the organisation as well as activities such as these retreats. This demonstrated commitment on their part inspires our volunteers, staff and partners to have the same dedication to the Y. It is a positive trickle-down effect.”

The retreat was facilitated by CEO Greg Smith, and all expenses for the retreat were paid for by the participants who stayed at the recently reopened Alexander Hotel.

For more information about the YMCA of the Cayman Islands, email [email protected] or visit www.ymcacayman.ky.