Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)
YMCA delivers programming to 11 million adults and 6.5 million children each year
Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Co-Chair of the Congressional Camp Caucus, joined Congressmen Mike Quigley (IL-05) and Chuck Edwards (NC-11), and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (IL) and Senator James Lankford (OK), in introducing a bipartisan resolution to honor the YMCA ahead of the organization’s 175th anniversary. The YMCA has about 2,600 locations, serving more than 10,000 communities across the country.
Since its founding in 1851, the YMCA has built its legacy around being a community space that meets the evolving needs of Americans and welcomes people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. In their resolution, the members of Congress recognize the YMCA’s history, which includes the invention of basketball and the first group swim lesson; providing safe housing during the Industrial Revolution; the establishment of the nation’s oldest and largest youth civics education program; and serving as the nation’s leading non-profit provider of early child care and education, before and after school programs, and summer camp.
“For 175 years, YMCA has been a champion of youth development, healthy living, and community-building. It’s a place where people, young and old, can socialize, connect, and thrive,” said Congressman Pappas. “Today we celebrate YMCA, its contributions to our communities, and its continued success.”
“For 175 years, the YMCA has provided shelter, health services, and a place to stay active for Americans nationwide. It has also provided support for our young people, through sports, ESL, and nutrition programs not otherwise found in their communities,” said Congressman Quigley. “I’m proud to join Senator Durbin and my colleagues on this resolution to recognize the YMCA’s deep and lasting importance.”
“As the YMCA celebrates 175 years, I’m grateful for the impact our local Ys have had here in Western North Carolina,” said Congressman Edwards. “From supporting families and developing young leaders to promoting healthy living, the YMCA continues to be a pillar and resource throughout our nation. This milestone is a testament to the lasting difference YMCAs make in our communities.”
“The YMCA’s history is intrinsically tied to our nation’s history, and even 175 years later, it will be a piece of our nation’s future,” Senator Durbin said. “Chicago is the proud home of the YMCA’s headquarters, and our state is better for the contributions of this organization, which has served as a community hub for nearly two centuries. I’m joining my colleagues to introduce this bipartisan resolution to celebrate the long and storied history of the YMCA and the work it does to support American communities.”
“For 175 years, the YMCA has been a steady force for good in communities across America. Here in Oklahoma, 17 YMCAs are putting that mission into action every day, supporting families, mentoring young people, and strengthening the communities we’re proud to call home,” said Senator Lankford.
“We are honored by this recognition of the Y’s legacy of service, and we look forward to the next 175 years of helping people thrive and communities grow stronger together,” said Suzanne McCormick, President and CEO of YMCA of the USA.
This legislation is endorsed by the Congressional Camp Caucus. Text of the resolution is available here.