Smiling children with their arms around each other

Our Global Reach

For more than 178 years, the YMCA has nurtured the power and potential of young people around the world to create lasting change in their communities and beyond. The Y currently serves more than 40 million people across 120 countries, supporting young leaders in initiatives that address health, employment, civic engagement, climate action and more.

Our Global Network

Our Y network around the world shares knowledge and resources to help address society's most pressing issues, including poverty, educational disparity, conflict and health inequities. Our Ys work together — each providing their unique experience and perspective — to help people everywhere reach their full potential with dignity.

Our Global Reach: By The Numbers

  • 120 countries

    The Y operates in 120 countries, providing a global network of support.

  • 40 million

    Every year, the Y reaches approximately 40 million people across the globe.

  • 1844

    The YMCA was founded in 1844 in London, England and has grown into one of the largest volunteer organizations in the world.

Three young girls smiling in front of an international Y logo

YMCA World Service Campaign

Supporting Ys Around the World

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In many parts of the world, YMCAs operate in challenging social, economic and political environments.The YMCA World Service Campaign raises critical resources to strengthen their capacity to reach more children, teens and young adults in need. 

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Youth Development: Solutions Initiative

GLOBAL REACH IN ACTION

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The YMCA Youth-Led Solutions Initiative is a global effort that further broadens the Y’s commitment to global change led by young people. The initiative aims to amplify youth solutions in sustainability, equitable community development and the betterment of all people. The Y supports young leaders who are taking action to address the issues that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

YMCA volunteer put together care package

Healthy Living: Refugee Medical Support at YMCA Lebanon

GLOBAL REACH IN ACTION

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The YMCA Lebanon provides 60 medications free of charge to Syrian refugees and Lebanese citizens to help manage chronic illnesses. Participants receive access to full medical services from physicians, nurses and healthcare workers. YMCA Lebanon also provides education on managing conditions, preventing disease and improving overall well-being.

Young lady smiling

Social Responsibility: Global Economic Empowerment Leadership

GLOBAL REACH IN ACTION

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The YMCA Global Economic Empowerment Initiative (GEEI), funded by Wells Fargo, was implemented in six countries during 2020: Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Peru, the Philippines and Spain. The initiative strengthened the financial self-sufficiency and economic opportunities of more than 4,000 young people, women and families from underserved communities by leveraging Y interventions that improved financial education and provided access to seed funding for small business development.

Support the YMCA World Service

When you support YMCA World Service, you create opportunities for people all over the world to overcome obstacles and enact change that will last for generations.

A World of Possibility

The work that the Y does at home and abroad provides endless opportunity to transform lives and strengthen communities.

  • Our U.S. Reach

    The reputation of the Y as an organization leading change around the world aligns with the tremendous work being done by Ys in the U.S. – with local Ys and volunteers delivering impactful programs and services for communities around the country.

  • Our Partners

    We are forever grateful for our donors and partners for their generous support of our mission, programs and services—in the U.S. and around the world.

  • Our Latest News

    Keep up with the YMCA at home and around the globe by exploring media coverage, news releases and more.