General FAQ
The following provides background and answers to anticipated questions regarding the launch of the Y’s new brand strategy.
About Brand Revitalization
Why did the Y revitalize its brand?
The Y has long been a respected nonprofit. Recent research showed us, however, that our cause and impact are not fully understood. The Y is changing how we talk about ourselves so that people better understand the benefits of engaging with the Y.
Is the Y’s mission changing?
Our mission remains the same–to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
What is changing?
An updated, more forward-looking logo replaces the logo that has been a part of our history for years. In addition, moving forward we will be known as the Y, as that is how people in communities nationwide most commonly refer to us.
What does the Y hope to accomplish?
The Y is committed to strengthening communities–it’s what we have been doing for more than 160 years. At the Y, we view participation in our programs and services as a means to a greater end. Therefore, through our rebranding effort, we hope to tell our story more broadly to help more kids reach their potential, help more families and individuals achieve better health outcomes, and encourage everyone to get involved and make their community a better place.
Why was the Y logo updated?
The revitalized logo, with its multiple color options, better reflects the vibrancy of our organization and the diversity of the communities we serve.
What is the timeframe for local Ys to convert to the revitalized brand?
We estimate that it will take up to five years to fully implement the brand strategy.
How does an organization of the Y’s size and structure develop and carry out a brand revitalization strategy?
YMCA of the USA and local associations work together every day to bring vital support and resources to communities. We are using the same approach for the rebranding effort.
When was the last time the Y changed its brand, or its logo?
This is the first time the Y has gone through a brand revitalization of this magnitude. The last effort was 43 years ago (1967).
Why now?
As our nation continues to face serious chronic and community issues, we believe the country must invest in its children, its health and its neighbors. Today, across the country, Ys are making a difference in the areas of youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The new brand will allow us to increase understanding of the impact the nonprofit makes in the community so that more people take advantage of the Y’s unique capacity to foster lasting personal social change.
About the Y
What is the Y’s mission?
To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
What is the Y’s cause?
The Y is a cause committed to strengthening communities. Every day, we work side by side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, is provided with opportunities to learn, to grow and to thrive.
What role does the Y play in communities?
At the Y, we nurture the potential of children and teens, improve health and wellness and give back and support our neighbors. Because of the Y, millions of people living in thousands of communities are healthier, more self-confident and connected to one another.
Why does the Y focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility?
For decades we have offered programs that help kids reach their potential, that help individuals and families achieve better health outcomes and encourage everyone to get involved and make their communities a better place. Our aim is to bring more services to more people in these key areas.
How is the Y structured?
The Y consists of a national resource office and more than 2,600 local Ys. Each Y association is an independent, autonomous organization with its own governing board, professional staff and assets.
Who belongs to the Y?
Nationwide, 21 million people of all ages, incomes, backgrounds and abilities come to the Y to learn grow and thrive. Everyone is welcome at the Y.
Who volunteers at the Y?
Our 500,000 volunteers are kids, parents, individuals, and business and community leaders who are personally invested in strengthening their communities.
What continues to attract so many people to the Y?
There is no other nonprofit quite like the Y. Because the Y is for everyone, we bring together kids, families, adults and communities like no other organization can.
How can I get involved in the Y?
At the Y, we nurture the potential of children and teens, improve health and wellness and give back and support our neighbors. Our aim is to engage more people in the communities we serve whether it is as a member, supporter or advocate. All play a vital role in strengthening our communities. To learn more about getting involved, visit ymca.net to find a Y in your community.
