The YMCA began in London England in 1844 as group of men sought to strengthen their communities with the primary goal of leading people to experience the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ. With the three areas of Prevention, Rescue, and Education the original documents state with passion that the clear objective of the YMCA is "To build up young men spiritually, intellectually, and physically."
On April 23, 1924, a group of prominent community leaders met and unanimously agreed that a Y.M.C.A should be organized in Columbus, Mississippi. The Downtown facility was built in the spring of 1930 and is still home to this ever growing and outreaching organization. Years have passed, leaders have boldly blazed paths, supporters have remained faithful and supportive, and programs have multiplied, but we remain fervently committed to carry out the mission of this great movement.
