YMCA Sydney

We build strong people, strong families, strong communities

Making healthy lifestyles accessible to all people Providing rewarding volunteering opportunities Reconnecting children separated in Foster care Developing young people into young leaders Creating places for people to connect and belong Giving families the opportunity to be together

General

Did You Know: Ys Facts

A few facts that you may not have known about the YMCA:

  • The YMCA was founded on June 6th 1844 and was established in Sydney in 1853. We are an organisation for all people regardless of age, culture, race, gender, ability or income.
  • Did you know that the Y operates in over 122 countries and has over 60,000,000 members?
  • In Australia, through over 380 Centres, more than 500,000 people per week enjoy YMCA programs based on our values of honesty, caring, respect and responsibility.
  • Last year the Sydney Y made healthier people through over 400,000 fitness program participations. We built self esteem through over 40,000 camping participations and brought people together to share fun & friendship with over 300,000 community sports competition participations.
  • Did you know that in 2008, the Y offered 272,415 people financial assistance to access a YMCA program or service?
  • The Y was instrumental in the development of the Red Cross, Scouts and Father's Day
  • Did you know that the Y invented the sports of basketball, volleyball, softball, and racquetball?
  • We opened the first ever public gymnasium and pioneered aerobics.
  • We invented pool filtration and developed the first formal program to instruct swimming.
  • We are also the world's largest single provider of childcare.
  • Did you know that the Jerusalem YMCA was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for promoting peace and harmony through non denominational fitness, aquatic and childcare programs? The founder of the YMCA World Alliance won the same award for inspiring the Geneva Convention.
  • Malcolm X lived at the Y and Anthony Hopkins first acting role was at his local Y.