George Williams History
For the Past
The scene is 1844, London, England. Sir George Williams, an English philanthropist and businessman, found himself searching for a place of refuge from the hardships that had befallen the city he recently moved to and now called home. London was in its industrial era, and Williams had a vision for his community—value your neighbors, contribute, and DO good. The birth of what would become the oldest and one of the largest nonprofits focused on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility was born—the YMCA.
Williams, along with 11 of his closest friends, came together to focus on the future. What they created was an environment that encouraged people to build better lives for themselves. Their drive to meet social needs in the community was compelling, and their openness to members crossed the rigid lines separating social classes at the time. This drive would be a theme the Y would continue to define the Y movement—a place for all.
Honoring the Father of the Y Movement
As a member of the George Williams Society, you make a powerful statement about the value of the YMCA in people’s lives. Your gift helps move your community forward in a significant way, providing access to programs that nurture the potential of every child and teen, that improve our community’s health and well-being, and that give back and provide for our neighbors in need.
George Williams Society Giving Levels
$10,000+ Distinguished Benefactor
$5,000–$9,999 Benefactor
$2,500–$4,999 Partner
$1,500–$2,499 Patron
$1,000–$1,499 Member
A Message from George
In 2019, Sir George Williams made a special appearance at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads Annual Meeting. See what he had to say about his founding of the Y's movement, and the sentiments of gratitude he shared for all who call themselves friends of the Y.
