YMCAs are collectively one of the largest providers of health and wellness programs and youth sports in the country.  Did you know that the YMCA invented basketball in 1891 as a means for keeping university students active and out of trouble during the winter months, and volleyball was invented at a YMCA in 1895 for businessmen who found basketball too strenuous?  The YMCA also invented racquetball and pioneered swimming lessons, physical fitness, and camping.  YMCAs also helped found the USO, Boy Scouts of America, and Camp Fire Girls. 

All YMCA programs are tools for building strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.  They can also help to reinforce the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.  The programs offered at each association will vary according to the needs of its community.