An introduction to YMCA Norfolk
YMCA Norfolk is part of the YMCA Movement, one of the world’s largest Christian voluntary organisations. It is, perhaps, unique because of the prominent part that volunteers play in its affairs. These volunteers have historically been referred to as lay people, reflecting the Christian foundations of the Movement, which date back to 1844. The description of a layperson extends to all those who actively engage on an unpaid basis in helping the YMCA to accomplish its purpose.
The Aims and Purposes of the YMCA Movement state:-
“The YMCA is a Christian Movement. At its centre are Christians who, regarding Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, desire to share their faith with others and make him known, believed, trusted, loved, served and exemplified in all human relationships. It welcomes into its fellowship persons of other religious faiths and of none.”
Accordingly the YMCA stands for:
- A worldwide fellowship based on the equal value of all persons
- Respect and freedom for all, tolerance and understanding between people of different opinions
- Active concern for the needs of the community
- United effort by Christians of different traditions
The YMCA aims to:
- Provide a welcome for members for themselves, in a meeting place which is theirs to share, where friendships can be made and counsel sought
- Develop activities which stimulate and challenge its members in an environment that enables them to take responsibility and find a sense of achievement
- Involve all members in care and work for others
- Create opportunities for exchanging views, so that members can improve their understanding of the world, of themselves and of one another
Norfolk YMCA is an autonomous, independent Association founded in 1856 and is responsible for its own affairs. However, it is dependent upon, and is accountable to, not only the wider YMCA Movement, but also to a number of regulatory bodies – particularly the Housing Corporation and the Charity Commissioners.
YMCA Norfolk Vision Statement
“YMCA Norfolk is a Christian charity seeking to serve the community through its extensive supported accommodation and resettlement work, recreational, educational, evangelistic, schools and youth offenders programmes, asylum seekers outreach work and personal development training.”
YMCA Norfolk
YMCA Norfolk (YMCA Norfolk is the adopted brand for Norwich Young Men’s Christian Association Ltd.) is an autonomous local association affiliated to the English National Council of YMCA’s and through the Council to the worldwide YMCA Movement.
It is governed by a locally elected Board of Directors who possess in-depth skills and experience associated with the governance of a registered charity and a registered social landlord (RSL).
YMCA Norfolk has been meeting the needs of the people of the City of Norwich and surrounding area for almost 150 years. Our programmes are designed to meet the spiritual, emotional, social and physical needs of a wide cross section of the community.
Responding to the needs of people at risk in Norwich and Norfolk remains at the centre of the Association’s core mission.
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