The gateway region YMCA is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to nurturing the potential of every child and TEEN, improving health and well-being, and supporting and serving our neighbors. The story of the gateway region YMCA is more than 170 years in the making, from its founding on october 13, 1853, at the 2nd baptist church in ST. Louis. From its very beginnings, the y's mission has been to PUT christian principles into practice through programs designed to build healthy spirits, minds, and bodies for ALL. It does that by being community centered; bringing people of ALL AGES together to bridge the GAPS in community needs; developing the potential to learn, grow, and thrive; and maintaining a local presence with a global reach. In 2024, our association served nearly 215,000 individuals in the BI-state region through membership and programs, employing approximately 4,400 full-time and part-time individuals. Additionally, we engaged more than 2,800 volunteers who are essential to promoting our cause and ensuring our future as a vital not-for-profit committed to developing community beyond our walls.