Our Vision When the first YMCA was established in 1844 in London, England, its mission was to promote positive Christian values and healthy behaviors and activities. Today, the YMCA movement has spread to 124 countries around the world, supporting and influencing the lives of 21 million men, women and children of all backgrounds. Our local YMCA association has been serving Winston-Salem and the surrounding areas since 1888. We have created a tradition of enhancing the lives of people in our community through an ever-growing list of programs and opportunities. Our Mission "Helping all people reach their God-given potential in spirit, mind and body."