Your YMCA

Founded in 1876, the YMCA of Rock River Valley is one of the largest non-profit community service organizations in northern Illinois. We work hard to meet the health and human service needs of our members and the citizens of the communities we serve.

YMCA stands for Young Men's Christian Association, but don't misinterpret this to mean that the Y is only for "young Christian men". From its start more than 150 years ago, when George Williams founded the YMCA in London, England as a substitute Bible study and prayer for life on the streets, the YMCA was unusual because it crossed the rigid lines that separated all the different churches and social classes in England in those days. This openness is a trait that we recognize and embrace even today - that our strength is in the people we bring together - Your YMCA is for all people of all faiths, races, ages, abilities and incomes. Your YMCA's financial assistance policy ensures that no one is turned away for reasons of inability to pay.