Something About Company
We transform lives by breaking down barriers to life-changing opportunities
As the world’s first YMCA, Central YMCA is a national charity that advances the education, health and wellbeing of our communities. Our vision is to enable everyone to achieve their potential, live a fulfilled life and contribute positively to society.
Our impact
5,379 people leading healthier lives
4,244 learners developing their careers
9,834 certificates issued to learners
Central YMCA was the world’s very first one and today we work independently as a leading UK health, education and wellbeing charity.
YMCA is a global movement and it all started in 1844 with us – Central YMCA. Today, YMCA isn’t just one charity – there are many different YMCAs all around the world doing different things.
As experts in health, education and wellbeing, we take the holistic view. It’s what sets us apart. This is why we’re well placed to tackle the social challenges our communities face, now and in the future.
Central YMCA centres are based in 4 regions across the UK. Our Central London centre, which has been our home since 1911, is our flagship hub for education, health and wellbeing – and is home to YMCA Club, the largest gym facility in central London.
Our education and employment programmes run in 21 local communities and support 16-19-year-olds to develop new skills and gain the necessary qualifications and work experience to move into further training or employment.
We also work nationally through our fitness education training and apprenticeship delivery teams to provide tuition, guidance and support to our learners, so they can realise their full potential.
Through our awarding organisation, YMCA Awards, we develop UK-regulated and globally-recognised qualifications. We work closely with industry experts, employers and training providers to make sure that our products and services deliver life-changing opportunities.
Our Mission, Vision, Values and Strategy
Over the last year our Board of Trustees and Executive Team have taken time to consider our core principles, reflecting on our founding charitable objects and considering how these translate in today’s times. Whilst the challenges society face may be very different to when our founder Sir George Williams set up the YMCA, we believe the principles of Mind, Body, Spirit continue to be integral to our approach and is translated through our revised Mission, Vision and Purpose and the services we deliver.
We have also taken time to reflect the values we believe are essential to take the Charity forward. We believe in breaking down barriers through our value of Equity, being Creative in our approach to tackle today’s challenges, being Brave in our decisions, and Nurturing everyone we work with to ensure they succeed.
Whilst the Charity and the wider sector continue to be faced with many challenges, we are optimistic that these changes will help to see us through and ensure we can continue to deliver the important services we provide to society.
“The pandemic has thrown up considerable financial challenges and we have taken this opportunity to reimagine our future. This includes a reassessment of our purpose, vision, mission, values and the development of an ambitious three-year strategy for change and growth.”
Our values
We are driven by equity and believe everyone can thrive.
We are brave, always striving to do the right thing.
We nurture people to succeed.
We are creative, adapting and evolving to tackle today’s challenges.
