What is North Down YMCA?
A question often asked - although part of a worldwide family operating in some 120 countries, each YMCA is a local initiative. North Down YMCA was founded in 1979 as an autonomous, voluntary Association. At its centre are local people from different traditions working together in social action.

Mission Statement
North Down YMCA is a voluntary organisation that works with children, young people, families and the community, with particular regard to those who are disadvantaged and disaffected. Underpinned by Christian principles, North Down YMCA responds to local need and seeks to share and learn from being a part of a national and international movement. 

Values

The YMCA wants every person to feel a sense of:

Value and purpose-enjoy a growing sense of self-esteem and confidence; having a sense of future and how to get there.
Belonging and trust - building positive relationships with family, peer groups and the wider community.
Growth and development - Gaining formal and informal skills, engaging with training and education, focusing on personal health and fitness.

We work to achieve this through:

An holistic approach to personal growth and development - YMCA Triangle – Body, Mind and Spirit.
A focus on positive personal development - positively valuing and respecting individuals for who they are, we work ‘with’ young people building on positive qualities and assets rather than dealing with deficits and faults.
Affirming the value of every person - fulfilling potential – valued for who they are, encouraged, supported and challenged to become what they can be.