About Us

The Cannon Street YMCA of Charleston, South Carolina is national historic treasure, since it is the oldest, continuously operating YMCA developed for African-Americans. Established just after the Civil War in 1866 and the Emancipation Proclamation, The Cannon Street YMCA will celebrate its 147th Anniversary in 2013. The Cannon Street YMCA is governed by a board of directors and has as its core mission to Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility for all members of the community.

The Cannon Street YMCA has impacted the lives of many famous Americans including Harvey Gantt, the 1st African American mayor of Charlotte, North Carolina and seated Congressman, James Clyburn. We are also the proud home of the famous Cannon Street YMCA Little League All-Stars of 1955.

The Cannon Street YMCA currently provides critical care services to a primarily low income demographic in the city of Charleston, South Carolina. It also provides health and wellness opportunities, literacy training, teen development programs, Senior Citizens services, Day Camp and Educational Training in the Charleston area. In conjunction with the Lowcountry Food Bank the Cannon Street YMCA feeds over 10,000 children each year.

Other collaborative partnerships include Boeing, sponsor of the 2013 Y Achievers program, Rotary Club of Charleston, the Medical University of South Carolina, the College of Charleston, South Carolina State Ports Authority, Roper St. Francis Hospital system and a variety of other supporters.