The YMCA of Greater Boston has more than 40 sites throughout Massachusetts, serving more than 100,000 members & volunteers.

The Y's mission is steadfast: The YMCA of Greater Boston is dedicated to improving the health of mind, body and spirit of individuals and families in our communities. We welcome men and women, boys and girls of all incomes, faiths and cultures.

The first YMCA in the United States was started in Boston in 1851. The Central Branch YMCA at 316 Huntington Avenue was built in 1912, the same year as Fenway Park. President William Howard Taft laid the cornerstone on October 2, 1912. The building was designed by the important Boston architectural firm of Shepley, Rutan and Coolidge.

From its early days, Boston YMCA offered educational classes. This initiative evolved into the Evening Institute of the Boston YMCA, later becoming Northeastern University.

The Boston YMCA is a seven-story brick and terra cotta building that is accentuated by a large "YMCA" sign illuminated by small incandescent bulbs on the north corner of the roof. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings.

The YMCA is the largest not-for-profit community service organization in the United States, servicing more than 15 million people, half of whom are under age 18. The Y's tradition of autonomy and practicality have resulted in extraordinary innovations including:

• Inventing basketball, volleyball, racquetball
• Establishing the first overnight camp - Boston boasts 3 camps!
• Developing the first pool filtration system
• Creating Father's Day
• Started the first exercise/body building class
• Founding professional football