YMCA 175th Anniversary Recognized at the State House
March 30, 2026YMCA Alliance of Northern New England and New Hampshire YMCAs Celebrate 175 Years of the YMCA in America
This year marks the 175th anniversary of the YMCA in America, and New Hampshire YMCAs are joining Ys across the country in celebrating this historic milestone. Founded in 1850, the YMCA has long been a cornerstone of community service, dedicated to strengthening the foundations of community through programs that nurture spirit, mind, and body for all.
On Thursday, YMCA staff and volunteers from across New Hampshire gathered at the State House in Concord to receive an official proclamation recognizing the 175th anniversary and honoring the Y's enduring impact on communities throughout the Granite State.
The YMCA's story in America is one of hope, service, and innovation. What began as an effort to support young men during London's Industrial Revolution grew into a nationwide movement that has shaped communities for generations. From inventing basketball and Father's Day to pioneering ESL classes and group swim lessons, the Y has consistently responded to local needs with solutions that foster connection, strengthen families, and build belonging.
New Hampshire's YMCAs trace their roots to the earliest days of the movement in the United States, beginning with the founding of the Portsmouth YMCA in 1852—the second oldest YMCA in the country. Since then, generations of New Hampshire residents have learned to swim in Y pools, built lifelong friendships at Y camps, and found support through programs that adapt to the evolving needs of towns and cities across the state.
Today, the Y continues its legacy as a unifying force. Across New Hampshire, eight YMCA associations operate 18 branches and camps, serving more than 100,000 people each year. As communities nationwide face rising levels of loneliness and isolation, the Y remains uniquely positioned to help people build meaningful connections—something it has done for more than 170 years.
"At YMCAs across New Hampshire, we're proud to be part of a nationwide movement that has helped shape lives and communities for nearly two centuries," said Dr. Rebecca Stanfield McCown, CEO of the YMCA Alliance of Northern New England. "From swim lessons to childcare, from health programs to volunteerism, the Y has always been here for good—helping people reach their full potential across the state."
The YMCA Alliance of Northern New England supports collaboration among YMCAs and community partners in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont to increase impact and advocate for positive change. The Y is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose, and each other.
About The Granite YMCA
As one of the state’s longest standing and most enduring non-profits, The Granite YMCA focuses on youth development, healthy living, social responsibility, and family strengthening. Across the state, its seven branches, and two overnight camps, engages 30,000 men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to improve their health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. In 2025, The Granite YMCA provided financial assistance and free services valued at over $1.6 million to 12,000 individuals. To learn more, please visit www.graniteymca.org.
