The History & Mission of the YMCA
The YMCA story is really about enriching communities and lives by helping people grow in spirit, mind and body. From fitness and health, to swimming and camping, child care, employment training and international development, the list of YMCA service achievements goes on and on.
The first YMCA opened in North America in Montreal on November 25, 1851. Originally a place for young men interested in putting religious teachings into practice, the Y expanded to offer public debates and lectures, language and music classes, exercise and social activities.
By the year 1908, the YMCA reached Saskatoon. Funds were raised to build a facility on the corner of 20th street and Spadina Crescent, featuring a 60 x 20 foot swimming pool where many Saskatoon youngsters learned to swim. The building opened in early 1913 and was a busy centre of activity for six decades.
The present YMCA officially opened on September 6, 1969. The Saskatoon YMCA serves over 6000 individuals through membership and program participation. Services range from on-site and in-school childcare to summer day camps to health, fitness and recreation programs.
WHAT WE ARE TODAY
The YMCA of Saskatoon is an important multi-service charitable organization. It is an association of people who are dedicated to improving lives and communities.
YMCA SASKATOON CORE VALUES
We believe in:
- The worth of all individuals
- Access and equal opportunity for all
- Investing in children and youth
- Service to others
- Honest, respect, caring, acceptance, responsibility, and fairness
STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
Community Building
We deliver high-quality programs to community participants in and beyond our facilities, using our staff and volunteer leadership and working with local and global community partners.
Member Services
The YMCA's Vision commits it to providing excellent member programs and services, guided by YMCA standards, delivered by caring, knowledgeable, and well-trained volunteers and staff.
Visibility
There is a spirit of optimism as we look to the future and the great potential of our highly valued YMCA. We need to communicate the value that the YMCA brings to its community, differentiating the YMCA from other providers of similiar services by acknowledging its charitable purpose, values-based programs, and partnerships with those who have similiar goals and values.
Contributing
By giving of their time, talent and treasure, our members and friends are optimistic and generous. Driven by the belief that amazing things happen when people come together, we are always striving to increase the participation levels of our caring donors and volunteers.
YMCA OF SASKATOON OBJECTIVES
- To foster healthy lifestyles
- To promote volunteerism
- To improve self-esteem
- To stimulate personal growth and development
- To increase leadership capacity
- To strengthen family togetherness
Governance
The YMCA of Saskatoon is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, which is comprised of 14 representatives from the community, who are responsible for the vision and the strategic direction of the Association.
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