Our Mission

The YMCA of Greater Kansas City Mission

The YMCA of Greater Kansas City, founded on Christian principles, is a charitable organization with an inclusive environment committed to enriching the quality of family, spiritual, social, mental and physical well-being. The YMCA is values-based, mission-driven and totally focused on building strong kids, strong families and strong communities. We serve more than 200,000 individuals and families in the metro area. Our 19 locations serve a diverse membership with a mix of programs including Health and Fitness, Aquatics, Sports, Summer Day Camps, Enrichment Programs, Child Care and Adaptive Programs.

Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility

Every day, every program, every relationship is an opportunity to practice the YMCA’s four core values: Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility. From child care and youth sports to SilverSneakers® fitness programs for active older adults, from youth leadership development to partnering with local companies for work-based wellness programs, we are intent on building spirit-mind-body connections.

In some ways, today's programming looks like quite a change from our start in 1860. The Reverend William Leftwich helped establish a Young Men's Christian Association in Kansas City to protect the morals of the young men moving to this bustling river town to seek their futures. At heart, we're very much the same—values-based with a clear vision of developing individuals and communities for healthy futures and strong communities.

By intent and action, our reach is broad and welcoming. The Christian principles of our foundation continue to guide our programs and operations. Kansas City locations serve people of all ages, races and religions. Our annual mission campaign raises funds to provide financial assistance to families throughout Greater Kansas City. Our financial assistance program makes membership and programs available to all no matter what their economic situation.