History
In 1988,the Santa Ynez Valley YMCA was formed. Based out of the Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church, two programs were established based on the needs of our valley: afterschool child care and Y-Guides. Since then, our valley has grown and changed seeing our Y housed in a variety of storefront locations and providing a variety of programs. In 1998, a 5-million dollar capital campaign afforded us the ability to build our current 27,000 square foot facility, renamed the Stuart C. Gildred Family YMCA, where we quickly grew to over 6000 members, spanning seven communities and offering a multitude of programs with a focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. In 2011, an additional 3.7-million dollars was raised to complete the master plan of our facility and increase our capacity to involve and engage more youth, adults and seniors.
Specialties
WHAT WE DO As the nation's leading nonprofit, the Y makes accessible the support and opportunities that empower people and communities to learn, grow and thrive. With a focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the Y nurtures the potential of every youth and teen, improves the nation's health and well-being, and provides opportunities to give back and support neighbors. HOW WE DO IT There is no other nonprofit quite like the Y. That's because in communities across Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties, we have the presence and partnerships to both promise and deliver lasting personal and social change. The Y is community centered. The Y brings people together. We connect people of all ages and backgrounds to bridge the gaps in community needs. The Y nurtures potential. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. The Y has local presence and national reach. We mobilize local communities to effect lasting, meaningful change in our community.