YMCA's first-ever binational agreement hopes to change lives along U.S.-Mexico border

SAN DIEGO (KSWB) -- "Dos Países, Una Comunidad," or "two countries, one community," was the idea behind the YMCA's first-ever binational agreement. Back in May, YMCA of San Diego County and YMCA Mexico established the Cali-Baja YMCA Binational Initiative, which aims to address the specific needs of the over 7 million people in the region.

It's the first such partnership in the YMCA of the USA's 170-year history.

And it all started with an idea along the border.

"My car was parked four miles away at our San Ysidoro YMCA. That's when it hit me: That this is a part of our community, and we need to reach across borders," says Todd Tidbits, President and CEO of YMCA of San Diego County.

This partnership means a lot to the people across the Cali-Baja area. Including South Bay YMCA regional executive director Laura Munoz Humphries.

"Especially as a biracial Latina woman, it's even on a deeper level, meaningful for me," says Laura Munoz Humphries. "I've always been excited of the worldwide presence of the YMCA, and their commitment to global work."

The initiative is led by a binational advisory board, composed of six advisors from each country.

What's next for this historic agreement? YMCA SD says some initial goals include expanding youth programs, improving water safety and establishing further well-being initiatives "on both sides of the border." per a LinkedIn post.

Tibbits says he hopes the idea of "Dos Países, Una Comunidad" spreads through the region and beyond.

He added: "I would hope also that we not only impact lives but serve as a model for other communities to come together."