SC S0989

Senate resolution commemorating the YMCA's 175th anniversary in the United States, founded December 29, 1851, at Old South Church in Boston by Thomas Valentine Sullivan

YMCA currently operates 2,600 locations serving over 17 million people annually across all 50 states and territories, supported by more than 300,000 staff and 350,000 volunteers

First South Carolina YMCA opened in Charleston in 1866; today 20 YMCAs serve the state with 7,700 staff and 6,700 volunteers, reaching one out of every 18 South Carolinians

Resolution highlights YMCA historical contributions including inventing basketball, establishing first ESL classes and night schools, creating the Youth and Government program in 1936, and originating Father's Day celebrations in 1910

Encourages continued support for YMCA efforts to address social isolation and loneliness through programs promoting achievement, well-being, and community connection