YMCAs are known for their ability to bring people together every day to generate solutions to challenges facing communities across the nation.  The community development efforts of YMCAs over the years have initiated important community programming and activities, such as the YMCA’s commitment to parent-child programs, youth in government programs, day and summer camps, and child care and afterschool care. 

Through its health and wellness programs, the YMCA is a major player in the health promotion and chronic disease prevention revolution that is saving lives, improving health, and reducing health care costs.  Every day, YMCAs lead community efforts to build understanding and respect for others by mixing people of diverse ages, races, religion, abilities and incomes.

YMCA Activate America: Pioneering Healthier Communities™

YMCA of the USA launched a key component of Activate America in July 2004 – the Pioneering Healthier Communities (PHC) project.  This community leadership initiative aims to (1) raise the visibility of lifestyle health issues in the national policy debate, and (2) encourage and support local communities in developing more effective strategies to promote healthy lifestyles.  Since the launch, 46 communities have fielded teams to take on the challenge of improving the health of their communities and their residents.