About YMCA World Service
A Legacy of Service
YMCA 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 asked for assistance. This "foreign work," as it was called, was the origin of YMCA World Service.
Nobel Peace Prize is awarded to YMCA leader John R. Mott (second from left)
Since 1889, countless people around the world have benefited from YMCA World Service programs thanks to the commitment and support of thousands of dedicated individuals. Whether as YMCA personnel or volunteers, they often devoted a significant part of their lives to bringing YMCA ideals to diverse peoples in many parts of the world.
Today, YMCA World Service continues to impact millions of people worldwide by raising awareness of and financial support for the powerful work of the global YMCA movement. YMCA World Service is a part of the YMCA of the USA International Group.
How YMCA of the USA International Group Continues the Legacy
Today, YMCA of the USA is a leader in YMCA international work and collaboration, playing a vital role in strengthening YMCAs around the world through global education programs, international YMCA partnerships, YMCA World Service and external grants for international development.
The YMCA of the USA International Group has a proven track record in fundraising and education; high impact and low overhead project design; implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting for NGO, private and government-funded projects. The group currently works with at least 60 YMCA national movements, benefiting an estimated 2 million individuals worldwide annually. The diverse international team works in 15 languages and maintains excellent, trusting relationships with both local and international YMCA leaders.
Additionally, the International Group carries out functions of global cooperation, representation, research, education, consulting and initiating new programs.
Click on the links below to learn more about YMCAWorld Service work through the years.