About YMCA Moldova
YMCA Moldova is a national youth organization dedicated to the development, empowerment, and inclusion of young people across the country. As part of one of the largest and oldest youth movements in the world — YMCA, founded in 1844 in London and now active in over 120 countries — YMCA Moldova operates in accordance with the core values of the global network: respect, responsibility, solidarity, diversity, and integrity. Since its establishment, the organization has grown steadily, becoming an influential actor in the civil society of the Republic of Moldova and a promoter of innovation in youth work.
The mission of YMCA Moldova is to empower young people to become active, responsible, and engaged citizens in their communities. The organization focuses on key areas essential for the personal and professional development of youth: education, leadership, digital inclusion, sports, arts, ecology, volunteerism, psychological counseling, career orientation, and employment. Young people from rural areas and vulnerable groups — including homeless individuals, refugees, and displaced persons — represent a priority audience in its programs.
Leadership, Volunteerism, and Community Development
YMCA Moldova promotes youth leadership through specialized programs, educational camps, training academies, international exchanges, and opportunities for direct participation in decision-making processes. Volunteerism is a central component of the organization: each year, hundreds of young people engage in civic activities, community projects, solidarity campaigns, and cultural initiatives. YMCA Moldova supports them in becoming independent, empathetic, and socially engaged individuals, strengthening a culture of responsibility and participation.
National Leadership in Digitalization and Technological Inclusion
One of the fields in which YMCA Moldova excels is digitalization. Through projects such as Digital Media Hub Chișinău, Digital Upskilling Awareness in Schools Initiative, Digital Hubs, HP IDEA, and Gaming Garage, the organization has significantly contributed to reducing the digital divide between urban and rural communities. Thousands of students, teachers, and young people have benefited from modern equipment, digital training, access to technology, and educational programs. YMCA Moldova has become a national platform for digital innovation, working closely with HP Inc., YMCA Europe, DGETS Chișinău, the National Youth Agency, and other strategic partners.
Humanitarian Programs and Support for Ukrainian Refugees
Since the outbreak of the crisis in Ukraine, YMCA Moldova has been actively involved in assisting refugees through community centers, distribution of food and hygiene packages, vouchers, psychological support, and educational and social activities. In collaboration with partners such as Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, Kerk in Actie, YMCA Europe, and local public institutions, the organization has provided essential support to thousands of Ukrainian refugees, reinforcing YMCA’s role as a provider of community services and social support.
Contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
YMCA Moldova contributes directly to several Sustainable Development Goals, particularly:
SDG 4 — Quality Education
SDG 5 — Gender Equality
SDG 8 — Decent Work and Economic Growth
SDG 10 — Reduced Inequalities
SDG 16 — Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
These commitments are reflected in the educational, social, digital, and humanitarian programs the organization continuously implements.
Professionalization of Youth Work in Moldova
Through training programs for facilitators, teachers, psychologists, and youth workers, YMCA Moldova helps raise professional standards in the youth sector. Training initiatives, international exchanges, and collaboration with global networks enable the transfer of expertise and the introduction of modern nonformal education methods.
Strategic National and International Partnerships
YMCA Moldova collaborates closely with YMCA Europe, HP Inc., YWCA-YMCA Sweden (SIDA), PCUSA, Kerk in Actie, public institutions, municipalities, youth centers, schools, and universities. These partnerships make it possible to develop sustainable programs and expand the organization’s social impact.
YMCA Moldova Today
Today, YMCA Moldova is a modern, visible, and continuously growing organization. With a dedicated team and an extensive volunteer network, it contributes to building an inclusive, digital, and future-oriented society where every young person has the opportunity to reach their full potential. Through innovative approaches and strategic collaborations, YMCA Moldova remains a cornerstone of community development and a leader in the youth sector of the Republic of Moldova.
Launch of the YMCA Community Center for Resources and Development (2024)
In May 2024, YMCA Moldova launched the YMCA Community Center for Resources and Development in Chișinău, a modern space dedicated to education, digital inclusion, and community development. The project became a reality thanks to strong collaboration among YMCA Europe, the Municipality of Chișinău, and DAAC Hermes SA, which provided financial, logistical, and technical support for equipping and preparing the center.
The new community hub hosts activities for young people and families, personal development sessions, digital training, educational events, and support programs for refugees and vulnerable groups. The center is equipped with modern digital technology, collaborative workspaces, workshop areas, and facilities for creative and social activities. Its opening marks an important step in strengthening youth infrastructure in Chișinău and highlights YMCA Moldova’s commitment to creating safe, inclusive, and accessible spaces for all.