The YMCA (Young Men’s Christian Association) is one of the oldest and largest Movements for youth in the world. It is a community-based Christian organization, voluntary, youth-focused, non-profit making and an International Organization working to bring social justice and peace to young people and their communities, regardless of religion, race, gender or culture. Twelve young men led by George Williams founded the first YMCA in London, England on the 6th of June 1844. It now operates in over 120 countries and reaching over 58 million people. The YMCA works to bring social justice and peace to young people and their communities, regardless of religion, race, gender or culture.
Local and National YMCA Associations are strongly rooted in their communities, depending on the local context and priority issues affecting young people. YMCAs operate in a wide range of programme areas. In addition to undertaking research, awareness-raising, and training in these programme areas, YMCAs also advocate to ensure adequate promulgation of national and international public policies that protect and promote the rights of youth and women in particular. Through these actions, YMCAs are creating long-lasting change in the lives of millions of youth and the communities of which they are part. In all activities, strong emphasis is given to youth leadership and youth participation.