Woman walking in a park

Supporting Diverse Communities

The 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. Learn more about our initiatives and how you can help support others in your community.

Activating People for Good

The Y connects people from all backgrounds to plan and carry out volunteer projects, all of which address a real need in their community.

GOOD FOR COMMUNITY: VOLUNTEERING

  • 27% more likely

    Volunteers are 27% more likely to find a job after being out of work than non-volunteers

  • Greater income equality

    Communities with high rates of volunteerism tend to have greater income equality than similar communities that do not

  • 1/2 as likely

    When young people volunteer, their likelihood of dropping out of school is cut in half

People standing together during book drive

The Benefits of a Cohesive Community

By working together, we can create a more unified society and help others reach their full potential.

A culture of volunteerism can lead to social benefits, like lower unemployment rates and more children staying in school and avoiding risky behaviors.

“To be able to volunteer alongside my YMCA friends was such a unique experience. It really added to my understanding of what the Y does and the impact it can have on our community."

– Member, Reuter Family YMCA (NC)

Children playing with chalk on sidewalk

Community Resources

The Y offers the resources to create and run community volunteer projects. From planning to execution, they can help you make a lasting impact.

YMCA volunteers posing with bags

YMCA Disaster Response

When a disaster occurs, the Y responds swiftly. From fundraising to providing supplies, disaster response efforts support the specific needs of the community.

Lifeguard at YMCA

Community Programs

Our offerings are designed to meet the unique needs of the community. Programs include employment training, counseling services and swimming safety.

Children and man eating lunch together

How to Get Involved

We continue to mobilize thousands of volunteers nationwide. Each individual uses their creativity, passion and hard work to transform communities, and we invite you to join us. Ask your Y's front desk staff how you can get involved. You can serve on a committee throughout the year or volunteer on individual projects that interest you.

Real Stories: Working Together and Supporting Neighbors

Giving back to your community is not only rewarding — it's a whole lot of fun. See how Y members are leading unique, creative service projects across the country.

Watch more Y stories

  • Supporting Communities in Chesapeake, VA

    "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." - Winston Churchill

    In one day, 42 YMCA of South Hampton Roads volunteers stuffed 180 “blessing bags” to be donated to Blankets for the Homeless in Hampton Roads. Additionally, two van loads of blankets and coats were delivered to the local nonprofit in Virginia Beach. People came together to give back in this member-led project, and the greater community benefited from their collective efforts.

  • Supporting Communities in Greenville, SC

    In partnership with the Salvation Army, 40 YMCA of Greenville volunteers teamed up to create a fine dining dinner experience for 36 women and children experiencing homelessness. These volunteers were able to make a difference in the lives of members of their community – one plate at a time.

  • Supporting Communities in Jackson, MS

    Today, only 27% of people say they feel closely connected to their neighbors. The Y aims to reverse these trends. Discover how Metropolitan YMCAs of Mississippi’s members, from all backgrounds, work side-by-side with neighbors and local partners to plan and implement volunteer projects to address the specific needs of their community.

  • Supporting Communities in Albemarle Family YMCA

    From an empty storeroom to a store full of clothing – see how these Albemarle Family YMCA volunteers are helping kids and families who are victims of abuse.

  • Supporting Communities in Winston-Salem, NC

    YMCA of Western North Carolina volunteers wanted to make sure that veterans in their community were not overlooked, which inspired one of their many Veteran-focused service projects: "Operation Gratitude." Volunteers created a special Stars and Stripes event, filled with banner signing, gratitude cards, crafts for kids and donations. Y members invited friends and neighbors to celebrate and show their respect, which resulted in a community-wide initiative.

Find Your Y

Search for the Y closest to you and visit their website to learn how to get involved today.

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More Ways to Support Community Members

Whether you are interested in helping a newcomer adjust to life in the U.S. or volunteering to coach a sports team, we encourage you to find areas of interest that can help others thrive.

  • Supporting Young People

    Encourage today's young people to become engaged global citizens by amplifying their voices and supporting them in their efforts to create positive change.

  • Supporting Newcomers

    We believe our communities are stronger when everyone feels welcome and we work together for the common good. Join us in supporting newcomers and celebrating our diverse communities.

  • Military Outreach

    The YMCA understands the unique challenges that military families face. As a member of the Y, you and your family can spend quality time together, meet other military families and enjoy the Y's membership offerings in a supportive environment.