To build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities by putting christian principles into practice through programs that promote healthy lifestyles, strong values, leadership development, community interaction, and international understanding.

Human Services , Physical Fitness & Community Recreational Facilities , Religion , Religion-Related , Sports , Young Mens or Womens Associations

Primary exempt purpose: the ymca of pierce and kitsap counties' mission is to put christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. The y is a powerful association of men, women and children joined together by a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of youth, promoting healthy living, and fostering a sense of social responsibility. We believe that lasting personal and social change can only come about when we work together to invest in our youth, our health, and our neighbors. That's why, at the y, strengthening community is our cause. Exempt purpose achievements: there is no other nonprofit quite like the y. That's because in 10,000 neighborhoods across the nation, we have the presence and partnerships to not just promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change. - the y is community centered. For nearly 160 years, we've been listening and responding to our communities. - the y brings people together. We connect people of all ages and backgrounds to bridge the gaps in community needs. - the y nurtures potential. We believe everyone should have the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. - the y has local presence and national reach. We mobilize local communities to effect lasting, meaningful change. Membership is the core of all ymca programs. During 2017, more than 164,000 people of all ages and backgrounds were active ymca members and program participants. Participation is open to all regardless of financial circumstances. The ymca provided $7. 48 million in membership and program fee assistance, as well as program subsidy, in support of our commitment to inclusivity. Youth development: nurturing the potential of every child and teen we believe all children deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. That's why, through the y, millions of youth today are cultivating the values, skills, and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health, and educational achievement. Child care: the y provides a safe, nurturing environment for children to learn, grow, and develop social skills. Ymca before and after school programs serve elementary students with a variety of programmatic and activity options to explore and develop their interests and talents. Our focus on safety, health, social growth, and academic enhancement means children have fun, grow, and thrive in our care. More than 1,670 children participated in child care in 2017. Education and leadership: the y gives children and teens knowledge, character development, guidance, and encouragement to help youth develop and realize their potential. Through programs like teen leadership development at ymca camp seymour, youth and government in local middle schools and high schools, and youth leadership development at y facilities, more than 66,700 teens and children experienced the growth and values only y programs can provide. Swim, sports, and play: through our membership base and outreach programs, the y provides positive, fun activities that build athletic, social, and interpersonal skills. In 2017, the y served more than 33,500 youth through membership, and taught more than 73,000 swim lessons, had more than 59,000 participants in youth sports, and collaborated with area schools to provide physical activity to more than 3,700 participants. Camp: ymca camp seymour offers an exciting, safe community for members to explore the outdoors, build self-esteem, develop interpersonal skills, and make lasting friendships and memories. More than 16,000 youth and families enjoyed camp seymour year-round through summer resident camp, outdoor environmental education, and family camps, more than 3,700 of whom received financial assistance. Healthy living: improving the nation's health and well-being in communities across the nation, the y is a leading voice on health and well-being. With a mission centered on balance, the y brings families closer together, encourages