As the YMCA became a more global and ecumenical organization, emphasis shifted away from spiritual concerns to simply developing good character and citizenship, apart from biblical training. However, a shift began in the twentieth century.
Until the mid-1900s, most local YMCAs promoted evangelical Christian values like sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. During and after both World Wars, the YMCA aided unemployed young men, gave medical assistance, and helped with the rebuilding efforts in various countries. Thousands of YMCA members were sent overseas as missionaries and eventually war workers. Moody (1837 - 1899), a YMCA staff member, was extremely influential in American YMCAs. It wasn’t until the late 1800s when centers were built and paid staff were needed. In the early days, almost all YMCA groups were run by volunteers. The movement gives emphasis to fostering “a worldwide fellowship based on mutual respect and tolerance and seeks to develop stimulating activities in a welcoming environment” ( The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church, 3rd ed., p. Most YMCAs are affiliated with the World’s Alliance of YMCAs, established in 1855. Today, the organization is active in more than 100 countries. The first student YMCA, dedicated to the leadership development of college students, began in 1856 at Cumberland University in Lebanon, Tennessee.įrom its beginning, the YMCA has sought to develop young people in body, mind, and spirit. The first YMCA for African-Americans was established in Washington, D.C., by Anthony Bowen, a freed slave, in 1853. The YMCA spread quickly in Great Britain and reached North America by 1851. Women and girls received acceptance as YMCA members beginning in 1964. Ultimately, these traits led to the YMCA’s inclusion of men, women, and children, regardless of race, religion, or nationality. The evangelical group had two uncommon characteristics for its time: it assigned priority to meeting social needs in the community, and it broke down dividing barriers of English society and religious denominational lines. Moved by the situation, Williams joined with several friends to organize the YMCA and provide a place of refuge for these young men. As the Industrial Revolution was ending, scores of young men were migrating to urban centers in search of work, only to land in desperate circumstances on the streets. At the time, social conditions were bleak in large cities. The YMCA was founded by George Williams (1821 - 1905) in London, England, on June 6, 1844, as a place for young men to meet for Bible study and prayer.
YMCA stands for “Young Men’s Christian Association,” and YWCA for “Young Women’s Christian Association.” The two organizations are completely independent and separate from each other.
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