YMCA History and Archives

The YMCA was founded in London in 1844 by George Williams and a small group of his friends to help young people find a positive foundation for their lives The YMCA came to America in Boston in 1851, and quickly spread throughout the United States.

The YMCA of Greater Saint Paul was established in 1856. Read the YMCA of Greater Saint Paul Commemorative History.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Minneapolis traces its origin back to 1866. Read the YMCA of Metropolitan Minneapolis Commemorative History.

Over the years, the YMCA of Greater Saint Paul and Metropolitan Minneapolis responded to the changing needs of our communities. Today the YMCA serves men, women, boys and girls of all faiths, races, ages, abilities, and incomes in our mission to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities.
 
You can learn more through the YMCA Archives, hosted at the University of Minnesota. 
© 2010 YMCA Greater Saint Paul / Metropolitan Minneapolis. The YMCA is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit social services organization dedicated to building strong kids, strong families and strong communities.