Young Men’s Christian Association

  • YMCA
Identifier
628
Type of Entity
Corporate Body

Dates of Existence

1844/present

History

In 1844 twelve young men led by George Williams founded the first YMCA in England, London. Their objective was the 'improvement of the spiritual condition of the young men engaged in houses of business, by the formation of Bible classes, family and social prayer meetings, mutual improvement societies, or any other spiritual agency.' YMCA staff served Canadian Armed Forces and became one of only two organizations allowed to visit prisoner-of-war camps to ensure medical requirements were being met.

Places

  • Founded in England, London.

Sources

  • Young Men’s Christian Association, www.ymca.int