This anonymous statement dates back to 1979; it was handed to me by YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne CEO Chris Angellatta for my files. If you know who the author of this document is, please let me know.
I AM THE YMCA:
To some, I am a gymnasium…a swimming pool…a dormitory…a game room…a camp…a home away from home…a classroom…a Christian fellowship.
I am all of these things…and more.
I am people…people who believe in the Christian Way of Life…people who comfort our Armed Forces…people in 89 nations.
I am lonesome people…youth who have run away from home…who come to me yearning for friendship, counsel and understanding.
I am a dedicated cause…striving against juvenille waywardness…encouraging companionship between fathers and sons and daughters…winning tough guys to better citizenship…through worthwhile activities in a wholesome environmen.
I am a bond of friendship of which I am proud…and humble.
My members belong for one…or both…of two reasons. Some join to learn and to lean. Later they, with others, learn to teach and support. I deal in skills and knowledges directed at a balance of spirit, mind and body…toward a more complete life.
Those who join my ranks expect to find adequate shelter and equipment to house my varied programs…where social life, athletics, and intellectual exchange can compete for attention against some outside attractions which are not entirely beneficial.
I am a positive force for good in a world beset by cynicism, apathy, and disillusionment.
As an Association, I impose obligations…of respect for the rights of others…of dignity of the individual…of helpfulness toward others in their time of need…of fair play…reverence toward the Almighty.
In return I offer an opportunity to grow…to win new friends…new understanding…new peace of spirit.
I am a vehicle for the development of men and women. The youth of today will be the adults of tomorrow…defending our shores…considering our legislation…teaching our grandchildren…running our businesses.
Fellowship within my Association guides the pent-up energies of the adolscent…shepherds their transition toward self-sufficiency…enlightens lesire hours of busy maturity…and softens the loneliness of waning generations.
Membership is voluntary…many take part without formal membership…and they are welcome insofar as I have capacity to serve them.
I am a movement…assuming responsibility for today’s task with an ever-changing crop of youth…nor am I forgetting that a proper association with others is a part of the plan.
I am 135 years of experience in the ways of youth.
I know strength is needed…there is much work to do…we can do it together…with faith in God.
I AM THE YMCA / 1979