YMCA Mission

“ To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.”

The YMCA as a Charitable Organization

• Founded in 1880, the YMCA of Topeka has been serving the residents of Shawnee County for over 130 years. The YMCA is classified by the Internal Revenue Service as a Section 501 (c) (3) organization for federal income taxation purposes. The IRS reconfirmed the classification in 2002.
• The YMCA is a charitable not-for-profit health and human service organization. We serve over 42,000 people each year, 27,000 are youth under the age of 18.
• We earn our charitable status every day by making available and accessible much needed services in the community. In 2009, we provided over $ 250,000 in various program and membership subsidies.
• Approximately 10 % of our membership receives some form of subsidy to enable youth and families the opportunity to enjoy the programs of the YMCA of Topeka.
• No person will be turned away because of their inability to pay full fees for a program or membership.

The YMCA is Dedicated to Building a Healthy Spirit, Mind, and Body

• The YMCA meets its Mission of development of spirit, mind, and body through program services. Programs serve all age groups from infants through seniors.
• Programs are classified in the fields of service of active older adults, aquatics, camping, childcare, health & fitness, youth athletics, and community services.
• The YMCA serves over 250 youth each day in childcare programs making the YMCA of Topeka the largest provider of childcare services in Topeka; serves over 8,000 youth in youth sports; operates six day camps each summer including a teen leadership camp; provides over 200 memberships to community groups; provides over 2,000 visitations and monitored exchanges to families in divorce situations; serves over 14,000 people in health & fitness activities; serves over 3,800 seniors annually and over 500 daily.. We had 400,000 visits to our facilities in 2006.

The YMCA is for Everyone

• Because we are Mission-Centered rather than profit-based, we believe that access to YMCA programs should be open to anyone who can benefit from our services, regardless of where they live or their ability to pay.
• We operate YMCA programs in locations throughout the county, taking YMCA programs to children and families where they live.
• Our membership comes from every area of Shawnee County.

The YMCA Belongs to the Community

• The YMCA of Topeka is one of the charitable agencies supported by the United Way of Greater Topeka.
• Public support – whether through contributions in dollars or volunteer time – is integral to the YMCA’s Mission and existence as a charitable organization.
• In 2009, 44 policy-making volunteers donated approximately 1,760 hours valued at  $ 35,200. In addition, 1,191 program volunteers donated approximately 41,685 hours valued at $ 750,330.
• In 2009, our Caring For People Campaign raised $ 120,000 from 300 donors. This fund allows the YMCA to offer financial assistance to those who can benefit from YMCA programs but are unable to pay full rates.
• In 2009, 78 people were members of the YMCA Foundation Heritage Club with contributions of $ 35,000.
• Since January 2002 our Capital Campaign has raised $ 535,000 from individuals and businesses. These funds enabled the YMCA to expand facilities and services to the community.

Financial Information for 2009

• In 2009, the YMCA of Topeka generated earned revenues and support of $ 4,152,799. 11.00% of revenue came from public support through contributions, grants, endowment, and United Way. Membership dues and program fees accounted for 61 % and 161 % respectively. Expenses totaled $ 5,420,081.
• Mayer Hoffman McCann P.C. audits the YMCA annually.

Financial Assistance Policy

• Within the available resources, the YMCA of Topeka will provide services for any youth, adult, senior, or family who desires to participate and understands the benefits of the YMCA, regardless of the ability to pay the prescribed fees.Those not able to pay the full fee may be awarded full or partial financial assistance based upon their demonstrated ability to pay and the YMCA’s ability to fund the subsidy.