Cambridge YMCA

A community presence in Cambridge for more than a century, YMCA remains true to its lasting mission of physical and social enrichment for men, women, and kids of all ages. Staff members uphold the YMCA’s core values of honesty, acceptance, and fairness as they invest in their community’s children and strengthen family bonds critically weakened by overzealous games of Monopoly. They pump up adult-fitness regimens with aquatic fitness and boot-camp classes, personal training, and a full gymnasium outfitted with equipment for basketball, boxing, and rope-skipping. They’ve also filled their fitness center with free weights, cardio equipment, and rowing machines. When they’re not helping adults trim down waistlines during yoga, cycling, and aerobics classes, staff members are getting back in touch with their inner children. They stimulate imagination, mental development, and growth as they lead children’s day camps, after-school programs, and youth basketball.

Cultural development is also a priority at the Cambridge YMCA, fulfilled through operas and plays held in Durrell Hall, the center's historic Victorian theater. This YMCA outpost further strengthens and unites the Cambridge community through its Central House facility, a 128-unit, substance-free housing complex that shelters men in need.