History of the YMCA

The Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) was launched on June 6,1844 in London England, in response to unhealthy social conditions brought on by the industrial revolution. Industrialization and the railways brought many young men from the countryside to the cities in search of work. The YMCA played a key role in helping these young men adjust to life in a new and changing environment.

The first North American YMCA was established in Montreal in 1851. Since then the YMCA movement in Canada has been a leader in establishing many of the physical and social programs we value today including; the invention of both basketball and volleyball, the Royal Life Saving Society, the Boy Scouts of Canada, father's day, the sale of poppies on remembrance day, the first national aquatics program, accompaniment of Canadian troops to war as spiritual and recreational support, development of youth leader corps, outdoor camping programs for children and youth, the promotion of a more active healthy lifestyle among Canadians, fitness leadership certification and much, much more.

Dedicated to the development of people in spirit, mind and body, today's YMCA is active in 130 countries and 64 communities in Canada. It offers a range of programs to all: young and old, men and women, boys and girls and people of all faiths.

The Moose Jaw YMCA was established in 1905 to provide spiritual and recreational opportunities for the young men moving to Moose Jaw from rural areas to work on the railroad. Since that time the Y has grown and transformed to meet the changing needs of the community. A large number of sport and recreational teams, clubs and programs can trace their roots to the "Y". Many of our local leaders and community volunteers attribute their leadership development, sense of community and passion for helping others back to their early development in the "Y" leader corps program.