YMCA: History, Meaning & More | Discover The Y!

Ever wondered what truly fuels a global movement that has spanned nearly two centuries? It's the unwavering dedication to community and the evolution of purpose, and that's precisely what defines the remarkable journey of the YMCA.

The story of the YMCA is one of remarkable growth and adaptation, a testament to its enduring relevance in a constantly changing world. Founded in London in 1844, the YMCA, or Young Men's Christian Association, emerged from a desire to address the social and spiritual needs of young men during a period of rapid industrialization. The organization's early mission focused on promoting Christian principles and providing a supportive community for young men navigating the challenges of urban life. It was on June 6, 1844, that Sir George Williams, a drapery merchant, brought together 12 young men above a drapery shop in St. Paul's Churchyard, marking the official beginning of the YMCA. Learn more about our leadership, values, history and more at YMCA England & Wales.

Category Information
Full Name Young Men's Christian Association
Acronym YMCA
Founded June 6, 1844
Founder Sir George Williams
Location of First YMCA London, England, United Kingdom
Headquarters Geneva, Switzerland
Mission To put Christian principles into practice by developing high standards of Christian character through group activities and citizenship training.
Global Reach 120 countries
Beneficiaries More than 64 million
Staff Worldwide Nearly 90,000
Volunteers Worldwide Approximately 920,000
Branches Worldwide 12,000
First YMCA in the US for Blacks Founded in 1853 by Anthony Bowen, a freed slave, in Washington, D.C.
Reference Website YMCA Official Website
Ymca Meaning
Ymca Meaning

Details

YMCA Logo, symbol, meaning, history, PNG, brand
YMCA Logo, symbol, meaning, history, PNG, brand

Details

YMCA Youth Programs, Community Services & Health Education Britannica
YMCA Youth Programs, Community Services & Health Education Britannica

Details

Detail Author:

  • Name : Claudia Hartmann
  • Username : lucius23
  • Email : makenna.ebert@hettinger.com
  • Birthdate : 1977-01-06
  • Address : 76826 Ryley Skyway Apt. 471 New Tiannaton, NH 34913
  • Phone : +1 (909) 560-3515
  • Company : Hermiston and Sons
  • Job : Petroleum Pump Operator
  • Bio : Nisi eos asperiores occaecati omnis consequatur. Adipisci voluptatum quam dicta quia. Ipsa magni accusamus delectus at provident.

Socials

instagram:

  • url : https://instagram.com/corwinj
  • username : corwinj
  • bio : Provident est est eum iusto. Adipisci est voluptatem dolores id. Nemo consequatur itaque sit porro.
  • followers : 6610
  • following : 2565

facebook:

  • url : https://facebook.com/corwin2017
  • username : corwin2017
  • bio : Ratione et quo eveniet minus. Omnis eos magni dolore qui.
  • followers : 6951
  • following : 896