The Y: We're for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Y: We're for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Our mission is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. YMCA programs are tools for building the values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Longtime leaders in community-based health and fitness and aquatics, Ys teach kids to swim, offer exercise classes for people with disabilities and lead adult aerobics. Each YMCA is a charitable nonprofit, qualifying under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Tax Code. Each is independent.