In Honor of International Day of Peace- 

A Better Place - An Original YMCA Song

is Released on September 21st as

First Leg of Global Project

Artists from around the world have come together to create a song called "A Better Place" in collaboration with the YMCA. The project, initiated by YMCA CEO Hank Leo, aims to spread hope and unity during challenging times. The song, along with a children's book series, curriculum, and music videos, involves over 40 YMCAs and collaborators worldwide. 

The project began when Leo asked Mathew Beadle, a music teacher at a YMCA in Central New York to work on a song for a pen pal program with a music foundation in Uganda. When the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted the operations, the song was repurposed to raise funds for the YMCA and support the struggling music program in Uganda. With the help of national and international YMCA partnerships, the project attracted musicians and recording artists from around the world.

The song was recorded in multiple recording studios around the world, including Big Blue North Recording Studio in Utica, NY, and was mixed in Atlanta  by Jason Brown,and mastered by Adrian Carr.

Leo emphasized that the project was born during a tumultuous time and that the song reflects the timeless struggle between fear and hope, hatred and fellowship, and indifference and understanding. The international language of music in the song aims to heal racial divides, challenge pre-conceived opinions, and question cultural judgments.

The project has expanded into an entire multimedia movement set to be released in the fall, including two additional original songs, music videos, and participation from representatives on seven continents.

Rob Totaro, Director of Member Advancement of New York State Alliance of YMCAs, Inc., has been instrumental in building the "A Better Place" website.

Leo hopes that the project will continue to build global relationships with other YMCAs and creative partners. Overall, the project has grown from a small initiative in Central New York to a global multimedia event, offering light and guidance to everyone, anywhere.