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"We build strong kids, strong families, strong communities."
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General Information

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General Information

Did You Know?

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: 42 million families and 72 million households are located within three miles of a YMCA.

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.

Because Y’s are driven by the communities they serve, each YMCA is different. Child care, teen leadership, and sports clubs for older adults may be offered in your community, while another town's YMCA provides swim lessons, Adventure Guides, and afterschool programming in local schools. Every Y makes its own decisions on what programs to offer and how to operate.

The Perfect Gift

If you’re searching for that perfect gift for a loved one, let the YMCA help give them the gift of good health with a
YMCA membership or YMCA program. Renewing someone’s Y membership or giving a gift certificate for a YMCA program shows them you value their good health. Certificates are available at the front desk. Also, check out our YMCA wearable items!