A 150 Year History of Innovation

The YMCA's commitment to improving lives through spirit, mind, and body has been a powerful force in America. Here are a few of the things the YMCA pioneered, invented, or helped create:

  • Basketball and Volleyball
  • Public Libraries
  • English (ESL) Classes
  • Job Training
  • The USO
  • Boy Scouts of America
  • Indian Guides
  • Swimming & Lifeguarding Classes
  • Camp Programs
  • Night School
  • Toastmasters
  • Low-Cost Housing
  • Peace Corps
  • Camp Fire Girls
  • Negro Baseball League
  • Father's Day

YMCA Organizes First Library in Colorado Springs

The first project of the volunteer organizers of the Colorado Springs YMCA in 1878 was to create a public library and reading room-- nearly three decades before the first city library. The first president of the new YMCA was Mrs. S.G. "Auntie" Cleveland. It was considered noteworthy at the time that women were given the right to vote in YMCA decision making... 42 years before the 19th Amendment. The early YMCA sought "to do good, as we have the opportunity, as far as our influence may extend."

Early 1900s — "The Taxpayers Best Friend"

At the dedication of the new Colorado Springs YMCA building in 1901, Teddy Roosevelt said the YMCA "promotes industry, temperance, and self-reliance...It is a taxpayers best friend. It gives better government at less cost, and that is the ultimate of political aspirations."

By the early 1900s, the YMCA was offering night school for "working youth" who would probably be considered at risk today. Before the days of homeless shelters, the local YMCA offered low cost residence rooms. Exercise classes were held to the accompaniment of a piano. Teens having trouble at home could find counseling. YMCA clubs provided positive activities ranging from photography to sports.

Growing with the Pikes Peak Region

Over the last 130 years, the YMCA has grown to include branch locations throughout the Pikes Peak Region and offsite locations at schools and neighborhood centers to reach over 125,000 people each year. Through partnerships and community involvement the YMCA is reaching out in new ways to build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.

History of the YMCA Movement

YMCA - History of the YMCA YMCA - History of the YMCA (32 KB)