In 2026, YMCAs across the country are celebrating 175 years of making a difference. Since 1850, the YMCA has been more than a gym or a pool; it’s been a place where people come together to learn, grow, achieve, connect, and belong.
The story of the YMCA in America is one of compassion, creativity, and community spirit. It began with a simple mission; to meet the practical and spiritual needs of young men drawn to London during the Industrial Revolution. That same spirit soon crossed the ocean to the United States. From the very beginning, the Y has been there wherever people needed support: serving soldiers and their families in every U.S. conflict since the Civil War, welcoming immigrants as they stepped off the boats at Ellis Island, and helping them build new lives.
The Y also became a place of learning and discovery, creating the first night schools and English classes for newcomers, and even inventing group swimming lessons, basketball, volleyball, and racquetball; gifts it shared freely with the world. When women began joining the workforce in large numbers, the YMCA stepped up again, offering quality, affordable childcare. And during times of change, the Y turned its focus to teaching values and character, reminding communities of the power of kindness, integrity and hope.
Through every era, the Y’s story has been one of meeting people where they are and helping them grow in spirit, mind and body. Just as importantly, it has been about creating spaces where people feel connected and know they belong. Today, that mission is more critical than ever.
Across the country and right here in North Carolina, we see the effects of loneliness and isolation across all age groups—from children to seniors. This is truly a defining issue of our time, and the Y is uniquely positioned to help build connections between people—something we’ve done from the very beginning. Here in North Carolina, the Y has been part of that story over the years. Every day, YMCA staff work to ensure everyone regardless of age, income, or background has the opportunity to thrive and feel a sense of belonging.
Whether through local food programs, child care, teens programs, youth sports, senior fitness, evidence-based health programs or simply a place for people to go where there is a friendly face to greet them, we’re proud to carry forward the YMCA’s legacy of service and community. As we celebrate 175 years of the YMCA in America, we invite you to join us in reflecting on the power of community and in shaping the next 175 years together. For more information or to join the celebration, visit 175.ymca.org.