Whos the YMCA?
The YMCA is the oldest and largest youth organisation in the world, operating in 130 countries with a membership of 30 million people. Our programmes reach over 150 million persons. This year marks 163 years since the YMCA was formed in London in 1844. All national YMCAs are united in a World Alliance, whose office is in Geneva, Switzerland. The YMCA is recognised by such organisations as the United Nations and is an observer at meetings of the UN. Heads of State are usually the Patrons of their respective national YMCAs. In Trinidad and Tobago, we have been operating since 1964 and our main focus is on work with children and youth. The YMCA is incorporated by an Act of Parliament as a charitable non-profit association and is on the Government’s approved list of charities for income tax purposes. Our audited accounts are published annually and presented at our Annual General Meeting. The organisation is guided by a board of directors presided over by our current President – Lisa Ghany
