Sous-fonds SF1 - YMCA

The Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) was founded in London, England in 1844 by George Williams. It was founded on Evangelical, Protestant, and Christian religious beliefs and provided opportunities for young men to make constructive use of their leisure. The goal of the YMCA was positive development of their spiritual and moral character.

The London branch of the YMCA was the third branch to open in Canada. It is presumed to have been founded in 1856 by William Bowman, a railway construction supervisor who was a member of the organization in Liverpool and London, England before moving to Upper Canada. The ‘Y’ provided socialization, religious, and physical activities to their members, including summer camps, bible studies, gymnasium facilities, and more.

In 1912, YMCA Canada was established, with the independent organizations around the country realizing that collaboration would be beneficial to their goals. London YMCA and others retained their local autonomy and independence following YMCA Canada’s establishment, but joined together with a wider community, meeting annually to discuss issues relevant to the organization.

In 1951, the YMCA amalgamated with the YWCA into the YM-YWCA, an organization that still operates under many of the same principles as its predecessors, with a mandate to provide spiritual, physical, and personal growth to its members.