Core Values of Coventry and Warwickshire YMCA

Coventry and Warwickshire YMCACoventry and Warwickshire YMCA as a Christian organisation aims to provide a range of quality facilities, services and opportunities for people of all ages, but especially young people, which are accessible, affordable and relevant to them. The organisation aims to promote individual and community growth, development and wholness of body, mind and spirit.

In England, the YMCA Movement comprises some 160 different Associations found in most cities and towns, each of which operates as a seperately registered charity. These YMCAs are often working with people at times of greatest need. Worldwide, the Movement has over 30 million members in around 125 countries. The evolution of each YMCA is influenced by local factors, but generally YMCAs aim to:

  • Facilitate personal, social and spiritual development, through life and job skills training and a wide range of other opportunities for personal challenge and growth.
  • Build relationships and provide programmes that suppport housing, community activites and sport, exercise and fitness programmes for all ages.
  • Share ideas and resources across the world as part of an international YMCA network.

Coventry and Warwickshire YMCA values diversity and welcomes young people from across all of the community. Diversity is reflected strongly among those who participate in YMCA activities and use its facilities. Our housing residents, for instance, come from many nations and backgrounds; the YMCA provides supported accommodation and training facilities for both men and women. The organisation is also committed to ensuring that diversity is reflected strongly within our Board of Management, volunteer and employee structures. This includes a commitment to keep our practices under review, leading to action where necessary, in order to attract new people from all sections of the community.

Inclusiveness is fundamental to the ethos of the YMCA as a Christian organisation. It is expressed in a wholehearted commitment to welcome people of other faiths and those of none, linked to a confident identity as a Christian faith-based movement.