We're for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

For any organization to stand the test of time, it must be able to keep up with the world around it. Through all of our 125-year history, the YMCA of the Greater Houston Area has been a place where people can find hope, fellowship and healing. 

The YMCA has always stayed true to its mission, values and purpose of helping persons grow in spirit, mind and body. With 32 centers and over 300 program locations serving eleven counties, the YMCA of the Greater Houston Area is helping to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities.

Our movement:

• Enables kids to realize their potential
• Offers ways for families to have fun together
• Welcomes and embraces newcomers
• Helps foster a nationwide service ethic

In Houston, across the nation and around the world, the accomplishments of the Y over the years reveal a mission to constantly search for innovative ways to meet community needs. An understanding of our history contributes to every decision we make, every program we offer and every value we practice. We celebrate our character daily, for years of conviction to do the right thing.

OUR CAUSE
The Y is a cause-driven organization that is for youth development, for healthy living and for social responsibility. That's because a strong community can only be achieved when we invest in our kids, our health and our neighbors.

• The Y is community centered. For more than 125 years, we've been listening and responding to our communities.
• The Y brings people together. We connect people of all ages and backgrounds to bridge the gaps in community needs.
• The Y nurtures potential. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.
• The Y has local presence and global reach. We mobilize local communities to effect lasting, meaningful change.

AREAS OF FOCUS
At the Y, we’ve always known that positive change only comes about when we invest in our kids, our health and our neighbors. All of our programs and community initiatives fall into one or more of the following focus areas.

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
Values and skills learned early are vital building blocks for life. Because of the Y more young people are taking a greater interest in learning and making smarter life choices. Children and teens are realizing their potential by learning values and positive behaviors, and exploring their unique talents and interests. That makes for confident kids today and contributing and engaged adults tomorrow.

HEALTHY LIVING
Being healthy means more than simply being physically active; it’s maintaining a balanced spirit, mind and body. At the Y you can work toward that balance by challenging yourself to learn a new skill or hobby, fostering connections with friends through our lifelong learning programs, or bringing your loved ones closer together.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
We know that when we work as one, we move people and communities forward. We are committed to providing support to our neighbors and opportunities for kids, adults and families to give, join in or advocate in the name of stronger communities.