By looking ahead and anticipating the changing needs of our communities, we can build our capacity to think and act strategically, and strengthen the performance of our federation.

In my last blog, I introduced you to the Federation Strategic Plan Advisory Committee who will be guiding us through our strategic planning process for 2012-2015.  We are calling this process “PLAN Y”.  It’s a simple name for an ambitious agenda, but one that I’m confident we can achieve together.  The PLAN Y includes six main phases:

• Phase 1:  Getting Ready (September)
• Phase 2:  Understanding the Current Situation (September – October)
• Phase 3:  Scanning the Future (September – December)
• Phase 4:  Exploring Future Directions & Scenarios (January – February)
• Phase 5:  Setting Directions (March – May)
• Phase 6:  Refining Structures: Service Delivery & Governance (April – December)

The Canada East MRC Meetings

I was just in beautiful Halifax on October 1 and 2 at the Canada East MRC Regional Meetings, where we introduced PLAN Y.  The room was buzzing with energy as we identified and examined external trends that are shaping the movement, such as economy, technology, demographics, culture, health and governance.  There was a strong willingness to consider tough issues and ask the wicked questions that will shape our future.  Here’s what some of the participants had to say about the meetings:

“Makes you consider ideas or thoughts you may not have considered or thought through”

“It is very helpful learning others’ views and helping firm up ideas on how the future Y will operate”

“Good open dialogue – some more quiet than others but I think there were no barriers to participation”

“Everyone had an opportunity to share opinions/thoughts”

“Very constructive and positive, good topics, interesting, engaging”

“Was useful.  Excellent way to pool thoughts and explain and elaborate on ideas.  Builds momentum”

“I like the strategic nature of the dialogue – inspires trust and confidence”

As the first MRC to jump into the federation strategic planning process, and in the spirit of friendly competition, the Canada East MRC challenged the other MRCs to try to leap the very high bar that they have set for dialogue on our future as Canada’s YMCA.  I was personally struck by the openness to change and innovation as well as the willingness to ask difficult questions…even to challenge a few “sacred cows”.

I am looking forward to the coming MRC meetings on October 22-23 in Calgary (Prairies and BC MRC) and on November 5-6 in Toronto (Ontario MRC) to build on the dialogue we started with Canada East.  With sound consideration of what lies ahead, we can agree on where the YMCA can have the greatest impact and develop a blueprint for moving forward together.

What are YOUR big ideas for the future of the YMCA?

Scott