SENATE RESOLUTION
8682
By Senators Pedersen, Conway, Hasegawa, Slatter, Valdez, Wagoner, and Saldaña
WHEREAS, In 2026, the Young Men's Christian Association (the "YMCA" or the "Y") marks its 150th year in the state, founded in Seattle by pioneers Dexter Horton, Rolland Denny, and Catherine Maynard on August 7, 1876. The Seattle YMCA was soon joined by associations in Tacoma, Spokane, and Walla Walla over the next 10 years, eventually growing to the 15 associations, 50 branches, and eight residential camps currently serving the state; and
WHEREAS, The state anniversary coincides with the national YMCA's 175th year as an organization, having been founded in the United States by Thomas Valentine Sullivan at the Old South Church in Boston on December 29, 1851, inspired by the YMCA movement in England with a mission to put Christian principles into practice by building healthy spirit, mind, and body for all; and
WHEREAS, The YMCA has continually adapted to meet evolving needs of American communities, strengthening society by bringing people together, fostering relationships, and creating a sense of belonging; and
WHEREAS, The YMCA's legacy includes providing safe housing during the Industrial Revolution, pioneering the first night school and English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, inventing basketball and volleyball, delivering the first group swim lessons, establishing the youth and government program, a premier civic engagement initiative that continues today, and serving as the birthplace of Father's Day, with the first celebration held at the Spokane YMCA in 1910; and
WHEREAS, Today Washington state YMCA's focus on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility changes lives and communities. Youth and adults find social connections at the YMCA, which lead to improved physical and mental health and well-being; and
WHEREAS, The YMCA is the largest nonprofit provider of quality licensed child care in the state, providing a safe place for youth to learn and thrive. The confidence that parents have in the Y allows them to work and attend school knowing their child is well cared for and happy. The YMCA is also the leading provider of water safety classes, partnering with school districts and communities to help teach youth the lifesaving skill of swimming; and
WHEREAS, The YMCA is a leader in chronic disease prevention. Through its programs addressing diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, Parkinson's, and childhood obesity, participants find a supportive community and evidence-based strategies to prevent and cope with chronic disease; and
WHEREAS, The YMCA is a community economic driver through jobs creation and employment opportunities. The Y's principles of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility are seen in our over 9,000 employees statewide. The YMCA is proud of its reputation as the first employer of many young people; and
WHEREAS, The Y serves people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities, creating spaces where all people feel welcome, are treated with respect, and find opportunities to connect with their neighbors; and