Welcoming Communities for More Than 150 Years
The YMCA has a long history of welcoming and supporting immigrants. From launching the nation’s first English as a Second Language class in 1856 to assisting thousands of new arrivals at Ellis and Angel Islands in the early 1900s, the Y has been a trusted space for connection and belonging. As King County continues to grow more diverse, the YMCA of Greater Seattle remains committed to evolving our programs and teams to reflect and serve our diverse communities.
Each year, we celebrate this commitment during Welcoming Week, a nationwide movement that brings people of all backgrounds together to strengthen community bonds and highlight the importance of inclusive spaces in advancing equity and justice for all.
“At the YMCA of Greater Seattle, we believe our community is stronger when everyone in the community feels welcome, and we can all work together for the common good. We are proud to be a part of Welcoming Week, which demonstrates that in places large and small, rural and urban, people of all backgrounds are coming together to create stronger communities. It is a time to celebrate the shared values that unite us as neighbors, parents, and colleagues and to make our towns more welcoming to newcomers and to everyone who calls our community home."
~ Meesh Talbott, our Director of Volunteerism and Community Engagement.
Branch Welcoming Week 2026 Events
Welcoming Week activities are taking place across the YMCA of Greater Seattle. From cultural celebrations and community conversations to volunteer projects, family activities, and civic engagement opportunities, there's something for everyone.
Browse upcoming events and join us as we create communities where everyone feels at home.
Every meal shared, story told, hand extended, and friendship formed helps create a stronger community.
We invite you to join us during Welcoming Week and throughout the year. Attend an event, become a member, volunteer your time, or support this work through philanthropy.
Together, we can create communities where everyone belongs.
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Voter Registration & Civic Engagement Day
The YMCA of Greater Seattle is committed to helping people actively engage in their communities. On Tuesday, September 15, five YMCA locations will host nonpartisan voter registration opportunities to help community members access information and participate in the democratic process. Civic engagement is an important part of building welcoming, inclusive communities where all voices are heard.
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Journeys of Identity and Belonging: Stories from Staff
Our staff are more than their roles at the Y — they are community members with unique stories shaped by immigration, heritage, and resilience. During Welcoming Week, they share personal reflections on identity, family, and belonging that reveal the many ways culture shapes who we are.
Building Belonging Through Dance
Raised in East Africa, Rahel Behailu found belonging through teaching dance at the Y, turning isolation and discrimination into connection, joy, and a renewed embrace of authentic community.
Changing Futures Through Opportunity
Greg Lewis shares how one donated football helmet and shoulder pads set him on a new path — from hardship to college and the NFL — and why he now works to give kids that same chance.
Finding Purpose Through the Y
After arriving in the U.S., Kirti Sharma found more than an HR role at the Y — they discovered community and purpose, supporting employees with fairness, compassion, and belonging far from home.
Reclaiming Culture Through Food
Meesh Talbott reflects on childhood shame tied to the scents of her Filipino kitchen and how, through her children’s pride, she found joy in honoring her heritage through cooking.
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Know Your Rights Resources
These resources provide practical information and tools to help immigrants and their families understand their rights, access support, and navigate challenges.
Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NWIRP)
Northwest Immigrant Rights Project promotes justice by defending and advancing the rights of immigrants through direct legal services, systemic advocacy, and community education.
Red Cards / Tarjetas Rojas
Free “know your rights” wallet cards available in many languages, helping people assert constitutional protections in everyday encounters—downloadable and printable.
About Welcoming Week
Welcoming Week, typically celebrated in September in the United States and other parts of the world, was founded by Welcoming America. It is an annual celebration bringing together thousands of people and hundreds of local events that celebrate the contributions of immigrants and refugees and the role communities play in fostering greater welcome.
Welcoming America is leading a movement of inclusive communities becoming more prosperous by making everyone who lives there feel like they belong. They believe that all people, including immigrants, are valued contributors and vital to the success of both our communities and our shared future. Learn more at welcomingamerica.org
This Welcoming Week, let's remember that each and every one of us has the power to help others, regardless of their background, feel like they are seen, embraced, welcomed, and included in our communities. Join us for a variety of community events and activities, free of charge and open to the public.
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Equity & Justice for All
Center of Excellence
The Y is committed to become an anti-racist organization.
Will you join us on our journey?
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WAYS TO GET INVOLVED
Join
Welcoming Week is a celebration of those who help create communities where everyone feels they belong. Continue that spirit of connection and impact by joining us at the YMCA Changemakers Gala, where we recognize extraordinary volunteers and invest in stronger communities across Greater Seattle.
Give
Your support helps the YMCA create opportunities for neighbors of all backgrounds to connect, engage, and thrive. Together, we can build stronger, more welcoming communities for all.
Volunteer
Volunteers play an essential role in building connected communities. Share your time and talents to support YMCA programs, community events, and opportunities that foster belonging throughout the year.
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