The Gateway Region YMCA is a health and human services nonprofit, 501(c)(3) charity where strengthening communities is our cause.

As part of our mission to serve the entire community, the Y provides financial assistance to allow access to our facilities and programs for children, adults, and families who may be unable to afford our services. The Y counts, in part, on the generous donations from the public to ensure everyone--regardless of age, income or background--has the opportunity to participate in our programs.

YMCA Advocates Action Network: Lend your voice to support our cause

The Y advocates at the local, state and federal levels to provide opportunities through Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility. After nearly 170 years of serving our nation, the Y has a strong understanding of our community's needs. Working with many partners, the Y provides everyone the opportunity to be healthy and thrive, to connect with others, give back and contribute to a better community. Everything the Y does is in service of making us—as individuals, and a community—better.  When you advocate with the Y, you take an active role in bringing about meaningful, enduring change for your family, friends and community. As an advocate of the Y, you can help:

  • Influence policies and initiatives that help youth develop healthy behaviors, values and life skills

  • Prevent and combat chronic disease

  • Build trust and understanding among community groups and decision makers

  • Positively impact societal issues of importance to the nation and your community

  • Advocate in support of a movement working every day to build healthier communities.

In 2021, the Gateway Region Y:

  • employed 2,100 part and full-time staff
  • served 227,500 individuals through membership and programs
  • received assistance from 1,163 volunteers
  • gave $2.76 million back to our communities in direct and indirect financial assistance

Our Public Policy Priorities