a ymca volunteer group at a fresh produce food drive a ymca volunteer group at a fresh produce food drive

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. Serving our nation for 175 years, 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:

Youth participating in YMCA soccer

01

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

YMCA participants taking part in a healthy living program

02

Prevent and combat chronic disease

Young people participating in YMCA Youth and Government

03

Build trust and understanding among community groups and decision makers

Gateway Region YMCA volunteers supporting tornado relief efforts

04

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

Gateway Region YMCA staff and participants

05

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

In 2025, the Gateway Region Y:
4,400 Employed 4,400 part and full-time staff
300,000+ Served more than 300,000 individuals through membership and program enrollments
2,900 Engaged 2,900 volunteers to help serve and strengthen the community
$2.5M Gave $2.5 million back to our communities in direct financial assistance to those in need to participate in Y programs and services
Learn more about our impact across the Gateway Region.
Legislative Priorities
View the Missouri State Alliance Legislative Priorities

Missouri Legislative Priorities  

View the Illinois State Alliance Legislative Priorities

Illinois Legislative Priorities  

Take Action Today!
Your voice matters. Take action today by responding to open Action Alerts from Y-USA’s Government Relations team. These alerts are your opportunity to support key policy priorities that strengthen communities and advance the Y’s mission. Every message counts—make yours heard.

Take Action