Mission & History

The Ashland Family YMCA exists to fulfill human potential and to enrich the quality of life for those we serve through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

We aim to provide a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals and families can thrive in terms of physical fitness, personal growth, and community engagement.

The Ashland Family YMCA has a rich history of serving its community since its establishment. Founded as a part of the larger YMCA movement, it has been a cornerstone of community development and support for many years.

The Ashland Family YMCA is an association of men, women and children joined together by ashared commitment to nurture the potential of every child and teen, promote healthy living and foster 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 kids, our health, and our neighbors. Every day we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. 

Our Values are: 

• Caring 
• Honesty 
• Respect
• Responsibility 

To fulfill our cause of strengthening community, the Ashland Family YMCA is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and safe space for all. We value the uniqueness of each individual and believe everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential with dignity. We acknowledge that we must hold ourselves accountable; we are dedicated to building bridges, increasing our knowledge, understanding, and we seek to bring people together to advance equity and create positive change at our YMCA. All are welcome here. 

When George Williams founded the first YMCA in Industrial Revolution-era London, he sought to create a supportive community to help young men like himself address pressing social challenges. The idea found a home in the U.S. seven years later at the Old South Church in Boston.  

The last 170+ years have seen the YMCA’s mission grow exponentially, and today the Y engages more than 10,000 communities across the U.S. As the nation’s leading nonprofit, the Y is committed to empowering people to reach their full potential, to improving well-being, inspiring action, strengthening communities, and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to become healthier, more confident, connected, and secure.