Faith has always been an important part of the mission and programming of the University YMCA. The Y has become a hub for student-led initiatives and community engagement around issues of faith, ethics, justice and equality. In 2008, staff proposed and the University YMCA's Board of Governors approved a set of new program initiatives, including Faith and Justice as a point of emphasis for our programming.

Recognizing that for many people their faith calls them to serve and work for justice, Y staff work to generate programs which connect faith with justice issues. The Y's building is often used to host interfaith action projects, as an example a Faithful Friend event organized near Thanksgiving brought members of Jewish, Muslim, and Christian congregations together to package meals for families in our community.

The Y is recognized as a safe, thoughtful interfaith space by both campus and community members. Following the tragic events of 911, the Y was an essential gathering place to talk, process and pray for students and faculty of all faiths.

‍

“Before I participated in interfaith dialogues, I was really afraid to voice my opinion until I experienced this safe space where I could feel comfortable saying that I don’t understand and asking others about their experiences.”

-Shivali Patel, 2016 Intern For the University Y's Faith & Justice Initiative and member of Interfaith In Action, a student program of the University Y

‍