Mission & History
Our Mission:
Overall purpose of the organization. What we do, for whom we do it, and the benefit.
*To support and unify YMCAs across the state to drive meaningful changes and advocate for thriving communities where everyone can grow and succeed.
Our Vision:
The picture of the preferred future if we are successful and achieve our mission.
*United for a thriving Garden State.
Our Cause:
Why we exist, our mission in action.
*To strengthen communities through our areas of impact, and foster growth that empowers Ys to transform society.
The Y is the nation’s leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
- Youth Development - Nurturing the potential of every child and teen.
Nine million youth are taking a greater interest in learning; making smarter life choices; and cultivating the values, skills, and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, the pursuit of higher education and goal achievement. - Healthy Living - Improving the nation’s health and well-being.
Millions of adults and youth receive the support, guidance, and resources needed to achieve better health and well-being. - Social Responsibility - Giving back and providing support to our neighbors.
Across the country, the Y helps people give back and assist their neighbors by offering them opportunities to volunteer, advocate and support programs that strengthen the community.
The Y’s Impact:
- More than 2,600 locations in 10,000 communities across the country.
- 21 million people (12 million adults and 9 million youth) of all ages, incomes, backgrounds, and abilities come to the Y to learn, grow and thrive.
- 500,000 volunteers – kids, parents, individuals, and business and community leaders –are personally vested in strengthening their communities.
- 20,000 full-time staff
- 64 million households and 32 million children ages 14 and under live within three miles of a YMCA, while 1,518 YMCAs serve communities where the median family income is below the U.S. average
Involvement at the Y:
The Y hopes to engage more people in the communities it serves whether it is a member, volunteer, supporter or advocate. All play a vital role in strengthening our communities. To learn more visit ymca.net. Each YMCA Association is an independent, autonomous organization with its own governing board, professional staff, and assets