YMCAs are for people of all faiths, ethnicities, abilities, ages and incomes. No one is turned away for inability to pay, within the fullest extent of our resources. The YMCA's strength is in the people it brings together.

Mission Driven
Founded in 1996, the mission of the Freeman Southwest Family YMCA is to put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body. YMCA programs guide youth, enrich families, enhance health, and promote intercultural understanding. Underlying every program is a focus on four key values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Open to All
People of all faiths, races, abilities, and incomes are involved with the YMCA, with 35 percent under the age of 18. Consistent with its policy that "with available resources no one will be turned away from participation in a YMCA program due to financial inability to pay the fee," each year the YMCA provides financial assistance to youth, adults and families whom otherwise would be unable to participate in YMCA programs.

Community Based The development of integrated, community-based strategies for serving children and families is key to the YMCA's success. The Freeman Southwest Family YMCA is a story of genuine community collaboration. Partnerships exist with Crowder College, Freeman Health Systems, along with a broad base of local corporations, and local school districts. Driving these collaborative efforts are the local volunteer board members who govern each YMCA branch and make program, policy, and financial decisions based on the social needs of their immediate communities.

Guided by Volunteers The YMCA has an annual operating budget of approximately $1,000,000. The YMCA employs more than 50 full and part-time staff. More than 400 volunteers gave their time and talent to help guide the YMCA and run programs in 2006.