YMCAs work with some of the most vulnerable children, young people and families.

Often based in the heart of a community, YMCA supports young people to achieve their fullest potential.

Each local YMCA is autonomously governed by a local Board of Management.

We work alongside partners in social work, other voluntary organisations, police, education and local churches. Much of our work is delivered by volunteers and each local YMCA is governed by local people who make up the Board of Trustees.

The YMCA is an inclusive Christian youth organisation, open to people of all faiths and none and we work to transform the lives of children and young people, empowering them to create positive change in their lives and communities. We work with all children and young people in a non-judgemental and supportive manner.

Founded in 1844 in London, the YMCA has grown to become a global youth work organisation operating in 119 countries reaching 58 million people. From its inception in Scotland, it spread rapidly with 62 associations established by 1876. Throughout the war years, YMCA became well known for supporting families and those returning home from the front. In addition, the British movement ran over 10,000 centres offering comfort, postal services and support to soldiers in the trenches during WW1.