WHO WE ARE
WELCOME
Many organizations offer programs as an end to themselves, but YMCA offers programs as a vehicle to deliver our unique mission of putting Christian principles into practice to build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. The goal of YMCA programs is to help enrich lives and teach people how to grow spiritually, mentally and physically. As a YMCA member YOU are part of a worldwide movement, which is in over 120 countries dedicated to making this world a better place—one person at a time. Collectively, YMCAs are the largest not-for-profit community service organization in America. YMCA's are at the heart of community life in over 2,800 neighborhoods and towns across our great nation. Y's are for people of all faiths, races, abilities, ages and incomes. No one is turned away for inability to pay. We believe that the YMCA's strength is in the people they bring together. The Y is built on the Christian principles of Caring, Honesty, Respect & Responsibility.
OUR MISSION
The West Cook YMCA, rooted in Judeo-Christian tradition, is dedicated to developing the spirit, mind, and body of all persons through quality leadership, programs and services, in cooperation with community groups for the common good.
OUR HISTORY
Since our YMCA began taking shape in 1903, our dedication to spirit, mind and body has never wavered. In 2013, the West Cook YMCA celebrated 110 years of service to youth and families in Oak Park, River Forest, Forest Park and several other surrounding areas. Our YMCA continues to enhance the quality of life in our communities with mission-based programs that meet the needs of today’s youth, families, adults and seniors. We encourage, teach and demonstrate the YMCA character values of caring, honest, respect and responsibility in all programs.
OUR CAUSE
At the Y, community is our cause. By offering programs to strengthen spirit, mind, and body for all, we strive every day to make the community stronger. We believe every child deserves a safe place to learn and play, every adult should have access to tools for healthier living, and communities must have opportunities to give back. As a cause-driven organization, we are focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility- and we never turn anyone away for inability to pay.
Our volunteers, members, staff, donors, and partners play a critical role in helping to nurture the potential of every child and teen, improving the nation’s health and well-being, and giving back to support our neighbors. The West Cook YMCA gratefully acknowledges all of our friends for their continued dedication, generosity, and support of the Y’s mission, programs, and services, across the United States and around the world