On October 3rd, 2026 at our Burbank YMCA, we unveiled a landmark mural by internationally acclaimed Los Angeles muralist Robert Vargas to celebrate the first-of-its-kind binational partnership between the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles and Y México. Vargas, an artist of Mexican heritage, created a permanent public work at the Burbank YMCA titled “Belonging,” a tribute to the mission of the Y as the Center for Community Well-Being.
For this mural, Robert wanted to also include representation from Burbank. He reached out to find someone doing good work and positive things within the community and chose Stella Gukasyan-Ellis to be featured in the mural, representing the Armenian community within Burbank.
“As someone who immigrated to the US at such a young age—I’m so honored to be in his mural, and I’m also proud that I get to be in community with him and everyone else in Burbank. We really needed something so beautiful here, so thankful we get it.”
-Stella Gukasyan-Ellis, Community Member
Community members from all over Los Angeles came out to the Block Party, which also honored Hispanic Heritage Month. Families and community members joined for fun games, activities, and opportunities for hundreds of Angelenos to connect with organizations committed to building stronger communities.
“This concept of feeling: a sense of belonging, connectedness, and togetherness—that is what this mural represents—bringing two countries together as one organization—with YMCA México and YMCA LA.”
-Victor Dominguez, President & CEO, YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles
“So much went into this mural. At the heart of it, it’s about belonging, community, and creative process. It’s incredible to see how the creative process brings people together.”
-Robert Vargas, Renowned Artist
Thank you to our elected officials who delivered inspiring remarks, Former Mayor of Burbank, Nikki Perez, Congresswoman Laura Friedman, and Assemblymember Nick Schultz. From our YMCA team, we thank our President & CEO, Victor Dominguez, our LA Y Board Chair, Todd Katz, and the Burbank YMCA Board Chair, Roberta Reynolds. Thank you to our event emcee, Joe Cotto, for helping bring positive energy leading our event.
Check out our event photos here!
As the Center for Community Well-Being, we are here for our communities in every way we can, ensuring that people have access to programs and recourses to strengthen well-being.
We are excited to continue building our partnership with YMCA Mexico, showing the power of our connection, and how together we can create positive change and impact for our communities throughout Los Angeles and Mexico City, not only to provide recourses and support to those who need it most — but creating a space of connection and belonging for all.
Be Well. Do Good. Lead Change.
Vive Bien. Haz el Bien. Lidera el Cambio.
