YMCA Of The USA
Together, the nation's 2,594 YMCAs are the largest not-for-profit community service organization in America, working to meet the health and human service needs of 20.1 million men, women and children in 10,000 communities in the United States. YMCAs are at the heart of community life across the country.
YMCA stands for Young Men's Christian Association, but don't misinterpret this to mean that YMCAs are only for "young, Christian men." From its start more than 150 years ago, when George Williams founded the YMCA as a substitute Bible study and prayer for life on the streets, the YMCA was unusual because it crossed the rigid lines that separated all the different churches and social classes in England in those days. This openness was a trait that would lead YMCAs to recognize their strength is in the people they bring together -- Ys are for all people of all faiths, races, ages, abilities and incomes. YMCAs' financial assistance policies ensure that no one is turned away for reasons of inability to pay.
America's YMCAs commit to extend our charitable heritage by directly engaging 25 million children and adults from all segments of our communities in achieving health of spirit, mind and body by 2012.
- Every child and youth will deepen positive values, their commitment to service and their motivation to learn.
- Every family will build stronger bonds, achieve greater work/life balance and become more engaged with their communities.
- Every individual will strengthen their spiritual, mental and physical well-being.
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