YMCA of London Ontario

YMCA of London Ontario Student`s Name: School`s Name: IntroductionAs an international and autonomous non-profit organisation the Young Men`s Christian Association (YMCA) has focused on issues dealing with human service needs of both genders as well as their health simultaneously. Apart from dealing with both genders, they have also included all age groups into their targeted areas of assistance. This organisation was founded in 1844 in London England. The main reason for its formation was the industrial revolution which resulted to unhealthy social conditions. George Williams, its founder, wanted to instil the Biblical core teachings into the street life and he had hoped that a substitution would be made to include prayer and Bible study into the streets. The organisation grew rapidly and by 1851, in Great Britain alone there existed 24 YMCA`s with a new branch being opened in Montreal Canada. By, 1854, the YMCA had nearly 400 branches in nearly ten nations worldwide and had a membership exceeding 30,000. By the year 2005, the YMCA had branches in more than 100 countries (YMCA, 2009). From their previous management style (centralisation) when the organisation was in its inception stage, the management of YMCA has slowly changed to embrace a more decentralised approach. Most of the branches are now fully independent; additionally these branches have got their own unique economic, social, political and cultural situations. However, this new found independence has not changed the founding spirit of the organisation which was to cater for the spiritual, mind and body as well as catering for the community, advocating for social change, better leadership and creating a passion for the youth. Effectiveness of the YMCA The Canadian YMCAThe Canadian YMCA`s intention was development stimulation and fostering of strong member associations. It also advocated for its members both internationally, nationally and regionally. The organisation was overseen by a federation which was governed by a national board of directors (on a voluntary basis) and they oversaw the implementation of national plans and priorities. The members association nominated the volunteers to serve as volunteers board members. The person`s responsible for the national operations were the YMCA Canada`s president and the CEO who were accountable to the board. Services OfferedThe YMCA Canada provides all people of all ages, additionally it also does not discriminate abilities or the background of a person. It works towards helping the attainment of a healthier lifestyle and encouraging the community members to make their community a better place to live in. Financial assistanceThe YMCA is a charitable organisation, and as such it relies on community support. Furthermore, it relies on other agencies, governmental or non-governmental as well as relying from assistance from the private sector of the economy to get financial assistance to enable the organisation meet their goals. The organisation too relies on fundraising campaigns. These pools of financial contributions and schemes have helped it provide better services, programs and provision of better facilities. Moreover, it has enabled YMCA Canada be able to reach as ma...