CHANGE A LIFE
CHANGE THE WORLD

Ys worldwide empower people with the skills and opportunities to create a better future for themselves. World Service helps them achieve this.

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Ys worldwide empower people with the skills and opportunities to create a better future for themselves. World Service helps them achieve this.

World Service began as the YMCA Foreign Service in 1889. By the turn of the 20th century, North American YMCAs were sending directors and workers to countries around the world that had asked for assistance. This "foreign work" as it was called, was the origin of World Service.

World Service, a part of the YMCA of the USA International Group, continues to impact millions of people worldwide by raising awareness of and financial support for the powerful work of the global YMCA organization.

Funded Programs

World Service changes lives by funding programs focused on helping people reach their full potential through six key areas: Strengthening Y Movements; Health Education; Youth Leadership and Service-learning; Employment and Vocational Training; Recreation, Camping and the Arts; and Youth and Technology. Learn more about funded programs.

Photo Gallery

The Y has a global reach that serves the diverse needs of more than 45 million people in 124 countries. In many communities around the world, Ys are the driving force for positive change in difficult social and economic environments. View photos of World Service in action.

World Service Campaign

Each year, the World Service Campaign raises and distributes more than $1 million to Ys around the world to help strengthen their ability to develop and deliver programs and services that are changing lives. When you support World Service, you are building stronger communities around the globe.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WORLD SERVICE CAMPAIGN