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Birthed on 6 June 1844 at the heart of London. The inception of the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) began with its founder, Sir George Williams, and his Christian faith.
Driven by his personal devotion and service to ensuring the holistic development and enrichment of young working men of Victorian-era London.
Today, YMCA is established as an influential and prolific presence that delivers exceptional programmes and transformative services to young people and communities globally.
Join in the celebration of 180 years of YMCA!
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YMCA has grown to serve more than 65 million people in 120 countries regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation or socio-economic background.
(Photo: YMCA Swansea Young Carer’s Service)
YMCA 180 encapsulates the true essence of YMCA and invites you to celebrate this monumental milestone of reaching 180 years of YMCA. Reimagine the renowned legacy of YMCA through the years, that has led to generations encountering our invaluable presence in countless lives and communities today.
YMCA's impact is seen in the lives of young people and communities we serve. Discover your YMCA and the impact we've have as a pillar of support and innovation.
Relive YMCA's story through World War I and World War II and find out how our the values guided our wartime efforts.
With your help we can continue to enable young people and communities to thrive for another 180 years.
Together with our campaigning community, we fight for change to make the lives of young people better.
After 180 years, discover how Sir George Williams’ incredible vision continues to shape YMCA’s future as we pay homage to our history and heritage.
George Williams, YMCA’s founder, imagined a community that uplifted and supported young people, a vision that remains at the heart of YMCA’s mission.
The foundation for what YMCA has become today.
(Photo: YMCA Cheshire, 2000)
After 180 years, YMCA’s campaigns matter more than ever.
From fighting for more affordable housing to greater investment in youth services, success is when all young people have the opportunity to thrive.
YMCA is dedicated to advocating for policies that support young people and communities. Our campaigning community helps make this possible; they give young people a voice.
YMCA’s impact is seen in the lives of the young people and communities we serve. Our specialised programmes are designed to address the unique needs of individuals we support in mind, body and spirit.
Join us in celebrating this incredible milestone and exploring how your fundraising efforts can support our mission. Your contributions help sustain and expand our vital programmes, having a positive impact directly on the lives of young people and those in your community.
Discover the power of collective action and see how your local efforts contribute to YMCA’s enduring legacy today.
Because YMCA stands for Young Men’s Christian Association, reflecting our original, founding mission to support the welfare of young people through Christian-based values. Today, YMCA has grown to serve more than 65 million people in 120 countries regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or socio-economic background.
The song Y.M.C.A by the Village People became a worldwide anthem, celebrating the welcoming community spirit of YMCA, particularly its inclusivity during the San Francisco LGBTQ+ movement.
Because YMCA’s global presence reflects our commitment to addressing community needs worldwide, adapting our programmes to diverse cultural contexts to provide the best support possible.
YMCA is federated – this means that we operate as a network of independent organisations, that share a common mission and values, but which have the flexibility to tailor their programmes and services to meet the specific needs of their local communities.
Because YMCA knows that we should always support the person, not the issue – promoting holistic well-being, addressing physical, mental, and social health through our diverse programmes.
Because YMCA has continuously evolved our mission to meet the needs of diverse communities. Founded in Christian principles, YMCA adopts an inclusive approach that welcomes people of all faiths, races, genders, and backgrounds. This inclusivity is rooted in the Paris Basis of 1855, which set the foundation for welcoming everyone, regardless of their background.
Today, YMCA’s commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its wide range of programmes and services designed to support and uplift all community members, ensuring that everyone feels valued and included. This approach helps YMCA address social issues, promote diversity, and foster a sense of belonging among all individuals
Because YMCA offers much more than fitness facilities, including educational programmes, youth development, and community services.
Because YMCA is continuously evolving to meet community needs, staying relevant and impactful for people in 2024 and beyond.
By continuing to be community-led, we hope to be serving the same purpose for 180 more years.