On June 6th, YMCA celebrates an incredible milestone: 180 years of dedication to empowering young people and developing communities.
Founded in 1844 by George Williams, a young drapery worker in London, and 10 other young men concerned for his fellow workers’ welfare, YMCA has grown from a small prayer and bible study group into a global movement, impacting millions of lives across 119 countries. YMCA Worcester, established in 1896, extended the YMCA’s mission and values to Worcestershire. During WWII, YMCA introduced mobile canteens, aiding troops and supporting displaced individuals. The 1970s saw YMCA Redditch’s birth, (alongside a very famous song) and the 1980s saw YMCA focusing on pressing issues such as homelessness and unemployment by creating safe spaces for young people. By 2000, YMCA had a global network of over 58 million members. The 2013 merger of YMCA Worcester and Redditch formed YMCA Worcestershire, further strengthening its community service capacity. Today, YMCA has grown to serve more than 65 million people in 120 countries regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation or socio-economic background.
Join us in celebrating this historic milestone and envisioning a brighter future for all young people in Worcestershire and beyond.
Happy 180th Anniversary, YMCA Worcestershire!
