Mission and History

Mission

Put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
Develop the total person- spirit, mind and body - through character development programs that build strong kids, strong families and strong communities.

Caring, honesty, respect and responsibility are the foundational values of all YMCA programs and services.

YMCA of Greater Cleveland History

Since its founding in 1854, the YMCA of Greater Cleveland has provided quality programs and services across an increasingly wide spectrum that encompasses fitness, education, civic service and community health and well-being.

Among the nation’s oldest and most influential associations, its first building was on the north side of Public Square, a site now occupied by KeyBank.

Through the years it has played a significant role in the establishment of Cleveland’s juvenile court and probation system, city playgrounds, and the Legal Aid Society.

The Greater Cleveland YMCA was also the site of the first separate Boys’ Branch in the United States, which opened on November 12, 1901 in Ohio City.

In World War I, the Greater Cleveland YMCA partnered with the Red Cross for a fund-raising effort that eventually led to the creation of the United Way.

In 1921, the Cleveland School of Technology of the YMCA (Y-Tech) was organized. This school later became known as Fenn College and eventually Cleveland State University.

YMCA History

The Young Men’s Christian Association was founded in London, England, in 1844 to address the deteriorating social conditions of the time. The YMCA offered positive alternatives to street activities.

Today, there are YMCAs in more than 120 countries, serving an estimated 45 million people. The 2,686 YMCAs in America serve 10,000 U.S. communities, uniting 21 million children and adults of all ages, races, faiths, backgrounds, abilities and income levels. Our reach and impact can be seen in the millions of lives we touch every year.

Across the nation, YMCAs are committed to helping:

Children and youth deepen positive values, their commitment to service and their motivation to learn
Families build stronger bonds, spend time together and become more engaged with their communities
Individuals strengthen their spiritual, mental and physical well-being

At every stage of life, YMCAs are there to help children,families and individuals reach their full potential.

1,496 YMCA's serve communities where the median family income is below the U.S. average
Y's give financial assistance to 20 percent of kids in their child care programs
All are welcome at their neighborhood YMCA, regardless of age, race, sex, faith, background, ability or income
America’s 2,686 YMCA's are collectively the largest not-for-profit community service organization in the United States
1,525 Ys have committed to YMCA Activate America®, our bold approach to directly address the nation’s growing health crisis by engaging and supporting all health seekers and communities in their pursuit of well-being in spirit, mind and body
YMCA's work abroad, serving more than 45 million people in more than 120 countries
More than a half million volunteers across the country make it all happen.