YMCAs across California believe our communities are strongest when everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential by being supported in an inclusive environment. We welcome and connect people of all generations, backgrounds, and perspectives. We're committed to addressing issues that people face to create positive change. That’s why we make it our goal to support young people, as well as the communities that serve them.
Supporting young people
We see young people as catalysts for change in the world, so we offer leadership programs and activities to lift their voices and support them in their efforts to create positive change at home and abroad.
By partaking in volunteer and leadership opportunities, young people can build self-esteem, widen their social circle, discover new interests and gain valuable work experience – all while creating positive change in their communities, in a safe environment.
Supporting communities
Each YMCA brings diverse people together to tackle social issues. By creating this culture of volunteerism, we create more cohesive communities and a better-connected society.
A culture of volunteerism can lead to social benefits, like lower unemployment rates and more children staying in school and avoiding risky behaviors.
By working together, we can create a more unified society and help others reach their full potential.