June is such a busy time of the year for the YMCA. We transition from school year programming to summer programming. In the last week, we have kicked off summer day camp programs, swimming lessons, and are gearing up for overnight camp to start at Camp Cormorant.
None of this would have happened without the vision of George Williams, the founder of the YMCA. On June 6, we celebrate Founders Day to recognize his work.
One of the things that I love doing as part of my job is teaching new staff orientation, something I recently did a few weeks ago. I always ask the question, “what were you doing when you were 22? Did you start a new organization that will be around 180 years later?”
That is exactly what George Williams did. On June 6 in 1844, George Williams gathered 11 other young men and held a meeting in London that would lead to the founding of the YMCA. He had a belief in a mission to give young men a safe and wholesome place to “be.” Bible study, camaraderie, and safety were the mainstays of what was offered all those year ago.
Today, we believe in the tenet of “love your neighbor.” But though much has changed over the years, the same offerings are happening today, though maybe with less bible studies.
Today, our children have a safe place to be whether through child care or summer camp. They are fed through our food program work that fed 525,000 meals last year alone. They are taught swimming skills and how to be safe around the water. They are taught teamwork and values through our sports programs. We do this to strengthen the community.
And you might think that we only concentrate on this work with kids.
No.
Adults are a major focus of who we are as well. From providing healthy living programs and fitness opportunities, to the camaraderie over a cup of coffee shared in our lobbies, to the food that we serve seniors in partnership with Valley Senior Services, and the list goes on.
180 years ago, a vision was born. 180 years later, we are still going strong.
I think we look pretty darn good for being 180 years old.
Happy Birthday YMCA!
See you at the Y!
Steve Smith, President and CEO
Posted on: June 6, 2024