The YMCA is honored to be serving the Banning Lewis Ranch community. We look forward to walking side by side with residents in this journey around health, community and recreation. Did you know the YMCA invented the games of basketball and volleyball? The Y, in its rich 170 history has offered society many firsts, including these two very popular sports. But, these examples are just a small fraction of what our organization represents. Sure we are recognized for aquatics, being the leader in the country teaching young people water safety skills. People know us for health and fitness, pioneering this industry over 100 years ago. Father’s Day in its present form was created at a meeting on June 6, 1910, at the Spokane, Wash., YMCA when Louise Smart Dodd petitioned the Spokane Ministerial Alliance to recognize and support Father’s Day. They swiftly endorsed the idea and helped it spread, holding the first Father’s Day celebration on June 19, 1910. President Wilson officially recognized Father’s Day in 1916, President Coolidge recommended it in 1924, and in 1971 President Nixon and Congress issued proclamations and endorsements of Father’s Day as a national tradition. We are proud of the rich history and impact this organization has had on local communities all across the country. Unfortunately, many do not understand what is at the core of our mission. It is to serve community, plain and simple. It is to address the changing needs of our community and serve all people, regardless of background, financial status, ethnicity or creed. We serve teens, impacting and changing lives. We are in schools across the region meeting the needs of working parents. We bring families together to build a sense of community. The Y serves the social, spiritual and physical health of thousands of older adults, helping to provide the means to a productive life into their retirement years. We help make life easier for military families through our robust and growing Military Outreach programs. The YMCA strives to lessen the burden of government by partnering with the City to keep recreational opportunities available to our residents. As we say, the Y is “So Much More™”. Thank you for welcoming the Y into your community.
