How YMCA Programs Help Participants

Why are YMCA's different from other fitness facilities? The main reason is because of the mission behind the YMCA's programs. The YMCA mission statement is "To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all." It is this focus on the whole body that makes the YMCA different. By putting spirit and mind first in its mission the YMCA focuses not only on physical but on mental qualities as well.

The YMCA also sets itself apart by the program objectives it has set out. YMCA programs help all people to achieve certan things through their participation.

YMCA Programs help people Grow Personally.

The YMCA helps people grow personally by building self-esteem and self-reliance. Those involved in YMCA programs all gain a greater sense of their own worth as they learn to treat themselves and others with a greater respect.

YMCA Programs help Teach Values.

The YMCA's focus on character development definitely sets it apart. Since it began the YMCA has focused on helping people develop values. Originally the YMCA was founded to help bring men to God through Christ and it has developed into an inclusive organization that helps people develop moral and ethical behavior based on those Christian principles. The YMCA supports this character development by promoting what it calls its four cor values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

YMCA Programs help people Improve Personal and Family Relationships.

YMCAs help families by providing flexible programs for their needs and responding to other needs they have. To improve personal and family relationships YMCAs help members learn to care, communicate, and cooperate within their families and with friends.

YMCA Programs help people Appreciate Diversity.

YMCA members reflect the diversity of the community. Within the YMCA people are treated with respect and diversity is celebrated. A main goal of YMCA Programs is to help people respect people of different ages, abilities, incomes, races, religions, cultures, and beliefs.

YMCA Programs help people Become Better Leaders and Supporters.

YMCAs mainly use volunteerism to promote leadership development. Volunteer leadership is a main key to the success of YMCAs and the many volunteer opportunities help people learn the give-and-take necessary to work toward the common good.

YMCA Programs help people Have Fun!

Its hard to participate in any YMCA program and not have a fun time. Try a program at your local YMCA today and find out how much fun you can have!