International YMCA
5 West 63rd Street; 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10023
Telephone: (212) 727-8800
Toll Free: (888) 477-9622
Fax: (212) 727-8814
E-Mail: ips@ymcanyc.org
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Who we are…
Since 1911, the International YMCA has been engaging people worldwide through local services and international exchange programs that build global citizens, enhance mutual understanding, foster the exchange of ideas, and bring people together for peace. Today the YMCA offers programs and services to more than 9,000 people annually, including new Americans, refugees, teenagers, international students, and emerging international professionals from more than 84 countries. Additionally, the International YMCA serves as the World Alliance of YMCAs’ liaison to the United Nations Headquarters in New York City. International YMCA programs foster the development of leadership skills, encourage a commitment to civic responsibility, and empower youth to become leaders in their own communities. International YMCA program participants gain cultural exchange experience through teen-to-teen interaction, service-learning projects, home-stays, and travel.
What we do…
The International YMCA offers a variety of cultural exchange programs for youth, including the international camp counselor, summer work & travel, trainee, teen leadership, and adult volunteer. Additionally, the International YMCA offers instructional, vocational, and recreational services to families new to the United States. The International YMCA envisions a more just and peaceful world where youth learn to think of themselves as global citizens, are adept at communicating across cultural lines, and are interested in being civically responsible. We recognize that the challenges youth face, both domestically and abroad, vary widely. The International YMCA believes in the unique ability of international exchange to affect lasting change in the lives of young people, and that these experiences should be available to all youth regardless of their financial situations.
How we do it…
To sustain these important cultural exchange programs, expand access to underprivileged American youth, and help New American families flourish within their community the International YMCA engages in fundraising through the annual support campaign, special events, grants, bequests, or individual, corporate or foundation support. The International YMCA recruits broadly from 84 countries and all 5 boroughs of New York City in order to ensure diversity amongst its participants. In 2006, the International YMCA raised more than $316,000 to make this goal a reality.