Young Mens Christian Association

Youth development: we believe the values and skills learned early on are vital building blocks for life. Because of the y, more young people in neighborhoods around our community are taking a greater interest in learning and making smarter life choices. At the y, children and teens learn values and positive behavior and can explore their unique talents and interests, helping them realize their potential. That makes for confident kids today and contributing and engaged adults tomorrow. The y makes sure that every child has an opportunity to envision and pursue a positive future, and to take an active role in strengthening his or her community, through programs like our child development center or before-and-after school program and others like ymca youth and government and y achievers, which offers career exploration and college preparation. For others, the y is the starting point for kids to learn about becoming and staying active, and developing healthy habits they'll carry with them throughout their lives. Whether it's gaining the confidence that comes from learning to swim or building the positive relationships that lead to good sportsmanship and teamwork, participating in youth sports programs at the y is about building the whole child, from the inside out. Very few environments are as special as camp, where kids become a community as they learn both how to be more independent and how to contribute to a group as they engage in physical, social and educational activities. Our summer day camps, specialty camps and resident camp teaches self-reliance, a love for nature and the outdoors, and the development of attitudes and practices that build character and leadership.

Social responsibility: as a leading not-for-profit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the y was created in response to social challenges and remains to this day a lifeline in communities around the world. The y understands the challenges that keep individuals from reaching their full potential and responds with services and support which help people to be self-reliant, productive and connected to the community. Each y responds to the unique issues influencing the community and provides support through services focused on critical areas, such as child welfare, community health, quality of life or family services. To bring about meaningful change, individuals need ongoing encouragement and tools. We're here day-in and day-out to provide resources our communities need. The y addresses social issues, through our y senior center, the ymca military welcome center, outdoor education at ymca camp classen and the safety around water program that teaches underserved kids how to swim. One of the most important aspects of building a global community is giving young people opportunities to understand and celebrate diversity. The y helps people to develop cultural competencies and the key skills to collaborate with their peers around the world through our international camp counselor program and brazilian exchange program. Finally, the generosity of others is at the core of our existence. It is only through the support of our thousands of volunteers and public and private donors that we are able to give back to the communities we serve.