Savar YMCA Strategic Planning Year: 2025-2028

Attention: open in a new window. Print

Savar YMCA Strategic Planning

Year: 2025-2028
Venue: YMCA International House,

B-2, Jaleswar, PATC, Radio Colony, Savar, Dhaka

Date: April 25, 2025

On April 25, 2025, Savar YMCA successfully conducted its Strategic Planning Meeting for the year 2025-2028 at the YMCA International House in Savar, Dhaka. This important program brought together all Advisors, Executive Board Members and Office staff of Savar YMCA, with the purpose of drafting a comprehensive three-year strategic plan (2025–2028) aligned with the global YMCA Vision 2030.

The event began with an opening prayer, invoking God’s guidance for the session, followed by welcome remarks from the President of Savar YMCA and the Convener of the Strategic Planning Committee. They emphasized the importance of unity, clear direction, and community engagement in achieving sustainable growth for Savar YMCA.

The session opened with a brief presentation outlining the history, core values, and current programs of Savar YMCA. The presentation highlighted Savar YMCA’s involvement in youth empowerment, education, health awareness, community outreach, and spiritual development. Current programs like youth leadership training, after-school programs, and social welfare services were shared to provide context for the planning process.

Following the presentation, participants engaged in a SWOT analysis, conducted in small groups. The SWOT analysis explored the internal strengths and weaknesses of Savar YMCA, as well as the external opportunities and threats it faces in a rapidly changing social context. Some identified strengths included a dedicated volunteer base, strong community trust, and a clear faith-based mission. Weaknesses discussed included limited financial resources, infrastructure challenges, and need for improved digital presence. Opportunities such as growing youth population, local and international networking, and rising community needs were highlighted, while threats like political instability, economic pressure, and youth migration were also considered.

The heart of the program was the presentation of the draft Strategic Planning Report 2025–2028, prepared by the Strategic Planning Committee. The report focused on four key strategic pillars inspired by YMCA Vision 2030:

  1. Community Wellbeing – Enhancing programs focused on physical and mental health, community-based support services, and health education.
  2. Meaningful Work – Providing vocational training, youth entrepreneurship support, and career guidance.
  3. Sustainable Planet – Promoting climate education, eco-friendly practices, and community involvement in environmental protection.
  4. Just World – Fostering inclusive youth leadership, human rights education, and advocacy for social justice.

After the presentation, the participants divided into groups for a more in-depth discussion and feedback session. Each group critically examined different parts of the strategic plan, proposed adjustments, and prioritized initiatives based on feasibility and local relevance. Their inputs were then shared through group presentations, leading to a rich and participatory dialogue.

The meeting concluded with the finalization of the Strategic Planning Document 2025–2028. It was agreed that regular reviews and evaluations will be held to ensure the effective implementation of the plan. The event ended on a hopeful note, with closing prayers and commitments from all board members and advisors to work together in realizing the new strategic goals.

This Strategic Planning Meeting marked a significant step forward for Savar YMCA, setting a clear path for the next three years. With its firm commitment to YMCA Vision 2030 and the active participation of its leadership, Savar YMCA is well-prepared to meet the challenges ahead and create a lasting impact in the lives of youth and the wider community.

 

By Shyamal Paroi

General Secretary

Savar YMCA