Social Responsibility

The YMCA believes our communities are strongest when everyone is included and has the opportunity to reach their full potential. We welcome and connect people of all generations, backgrounds and perspectives, and we're committed to addressing issues that people face to create positive change.

Social Responsibility

Our Social Responsibility Programs

We work to provide kids, families and communities with the resources and opportunities they need to learn, grow and thrive. That's why we offer a range of programs and services to meet the unique needs of each community we serve.

  • Supporting Young People

    Whether you’re volunteering, coaching or mentoring, your time and talent can help change the lives of children and teens. See how you can help young people reach their full potential.

  • Supporting Newcomers and Immigrants

    Adjusting to a new community and culture can be challenging. The Y provides newcomers and immigrants with resources and support to help them gain confidence and thrive by offering services like refugee resettlement and adult education.

  • Supporting Communities

    When we unite together, we address society’s most critical needs by developing community-based solutions and inspiring a spirit of service.

  • Advocate with the Y

    Make your voice heard when you advocate with the Y. You can help influence policies that impact your family, friends and community at the national and state level.

  • Military Outreach

    We know that deployment can be a stressful time for the families of those who serve our country. Learn about the ways the Y supports military families, including our membership benefits and respite child care services.

  • Global Services

    Ys in the U.S. partner with Ys around the world to address important social issues. Through this strong global network, we harness our collective knowledge and resources to help people strengthen their communities.

Social Responsibility in Action

See how five people with diverse backgrounds are positively impacting their communities across the country.

Watch more Y stories

  • Diversity & Inclusion: I Want People to Feel as Loved as I do by my Y.

    Aliyah grew up in the Y and has always felt a sense of belonging there. Now as president of Decatur Family Y’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance, she increases awareness of issues important to the community and ensures that young people who identify as #LGBTQ+ feel safe and supported. This is her Y. Her camera. Her story.

  • Volunteering: It's a Big Part of My Life.

    What’s Bob’s favorite role of all time? Grandpa. From substitute grandparent at Grandparents Day, to volunteering twice a week at the YMCA of Buffalo Niagara school-age child care program, Bob is committed to making each child feel special. In turn, his time volunteering has brightened his life. This is his Y. His camera. His story.

  • Environmental Education: We Rebuilt Our Community After the Fire.

    In Los Alamos, New Mexico, fire swept through the town not once, but several times in a decade. Eddie was looking for a little direction in his life and found the right path through one of The Family YMCA's volunteer programs. This is his Y. His camera. His story.

  • Diversity & Inclusion: They've Made us Feel Welcome.

    Ashley and Tracy were looking for a place their whole family could enjoy—and they found that and more at YMCA of Metropolitan Huntsville. Their kids love to play at the Y, and the two of them can exercise, connect with staff and members and, most importantly, find a welcoming place of acceptance. This is their Y. Their camera. Their story.

  • Late Night Basketball League: We're Building Relationships with the Community.

    YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne’s late night basketball league is more than just a safe space for young Black men to play basketball. Watch how Anthony and others in the league connect with law enforcement and community leaders to foster trust and understanding, creating a safer community for all. This is Anthony’s Y. His camera. His story.

Join Us As We Work Toward Positive Change

We know that when we work together, we move individuals, families and communities forward.

Find Your Y

Find the Y closest to you and visit their website to learn how to get involved today.

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