ABOUT US

Our Mission

The purpose of the YMCA of Greater Charleston is to improve the lives of all in the Greater Charleston area by connecting individuals, families, and communities with opportunities based on Christian Values that strengthen spirit, mind, and body.

Our History

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.

Cane Bay

This highly-anticipated project features a 54,000-square-foot sports facility with a 25-yard swimming pool, Wellness Center, full basketball court, walking/jogging track, multipurpose spaces, youth development rooms, sports fields, pavilion and even a library. The 5,000-square-foot library will provide full services to the community, and is the first of its kind collaboration between a county library and a YMCA in the United States.