YMCA Changes Name to ‘Y’

YMCA presented a new brand strategy, for the first time in 43 years, the YMCA has officially changed it’s name to “The Y.”
YMCA Changes Name to ‘Y’
7/13/2010
Updated:
7/13/2010
YMCA presented a new brand strategy, for the first time in 43 years, at the National Press Club on July 12.

The strategy, which took two years to develop, introduced a new framework that focuses resources on three main areas: youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. A bold new logo was presented to reflect the vibrancy and diversity of the organization, according to the press release.

The nonprofit organization also officially adapted its common name “the Y.” All the Ys around the country expect to complete the transition in five years.

The Y determined that change was necessary when it was shown in surveys that many American across the county are unsatisfied with their community and not optimistic about their future community life.

“People are concerned about the problems facing their communities.  Like the Y, they understand that lasting change will only come about if we work together to improve our health, strengthen our families and support our neighbors. Our hope is that more people will choose to engage with the Y,” said Neil Nicoll, president and CEO of YMCA of the USA in a press release.

To follow its new framework, the Y will take action in “nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving the nation’s health and well-being, giving back and providing support to our neighbors.”

The organization believes that through its efforts, more people will engage with the Y and their community.

“We are changing how we talk about ourselves so that people better understand the benefits of engaging with the Y,” said Kate Coleman, senior vice president and chief marketing officer of YMCA of the USA.

The YMCA of the USA was founded on December 29, 1851 in Boston to provide young men, sailors and merchants with a “home away from home.” After more than a century, the Y continues to promote programs to build a healthy mind and body for the youth and for people of all ages.

By Yi Yang/The Epoch Times Staff

YMCA presented a new brand strategy, for the first time in 43 years, at the National Press Club on July 12.

The strategy, which took two years to develop, introduced a new framework that focuses resources on three main areas: youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. A bold new logo was presented to reflect the vibrancy and diversity of the organization, according to the press release.

The nonprofit organization also officially adapted its common name “the Y.” All the Ys around the country expect to complete the transition in five years.

The Y determined that change was necessary when it was shown in surveys that many American across the county are unsatisfied with their community and not optimistic about their future community life.

“People are concerned about the problems facing their communities.  Like the Y, they understand that lasting change will only come about if we work together to improve our health, strengthen our families and support our neighbors. Our hope is that more people will choose to engage with the Y,” said Neil Nicoll, president and CEO of YMCA of the USA in a press release.

To follow its new framework, the Y will take action in “nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving the nation’s health and well-being, giving back and providing support to our neighbors.”

The organization believes that through its efforts, more people will engage with the Y and their community.

“We are changing how we talk about ourselves so that people better understand the benefits of engaging with the Y,” said Kate Coleman, senior vice president and chief marketing officer of YMCA of the USA.

The YMCA of the USA was founded on December 29, 1851 in Boston to provide young men, sailors and merchants with a “home away from home.” After more than a century, the Y continues to promote programs to build a healthy mind and body for the youth and for people of all ages.