HISTORY

Cleveland Dodge, Andrew Carnegie, George Perkins, and William Sloane – the original financial supporters of what is now known as the International YMCA – viewed young adults engaging in international service, travel and exchange as future world leaders. The International YMCA was created to fill that need. 

Since 1911, the International YMCA has been engaging people worldwide through local services and international exchange programs that build global citizens, enhance mutual understanding, foster the exchange of ideas, and bring people together for peace. Today, the YMCA offers programs and services to more than 10,000 people annually, including new Americans, refugees, teenagers, international students, and emerging international professionals from more than 124 countries around the world. 

The International YMCA envisions a more just and peaceful world where youth learn to think of themselves as global citizens, are adept at communicating across cultural lines and are interested in being civically responsible. The International YMCA believes in the unique ability of international exchange to affect lasting change in the lives of young people.