Our Vision
A brighter future together.
The Y is a vibrant hub where everyone, regardless of background, can connect, grow, and reach their full potential. Together, we build a healthier, more connected future for our community.
YMCA Mission
The mission of the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit is to put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.
Our Beliefs
Health and wellness should be accessible to all.
Everyone should have an opportunity to contribute to improving their community.
Healthy communities are safe, inclusive and welcoming.
Youth deserve positive experiences to support them in realizing their potential.
Our Values
YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit is committed to practicing and demonstrating the core values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and inclusion in all aspects of the organization.
Our Programs
Our YMCA offers values-centered programs and services with a focus on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, offering programs in the following areas:
Strategic Advantages
Aquatic & Programmatic Expertise
The YMCA leads in aquatic instruction and water safety, leveraging community pools and extensive resources.
Positive Youth Development
We empower youth through impactful programs, first-time jobs, and workforce development opportunities.
Inclusion & Belonging
We ensure access for all, regardless of financial ability, through dedicated community fundraising.
Commitment to Youth & Teen Safety
Our Praesidium Accreditation reflects our unwavering focus on child, teen, and aquatic safety.
Passionate & Resilient Leadership
Our adaptable leaders inspire and equip staff and volunteers to thrive in a changing world.
Trusted Legacy
With a strong history of adapting to community needs, the YMCA drives lasting, positive impact.
Expansive Reach & Collaborative Impact
Through partnerships and community engagement, we create meaningful change beyond our physical locations.
Strategic Priorities
The Y is focused on serving all members of the community, including the needs of underserved groups and those struggling due to a lack of resources. Developed with feedback from community leaders, our five Strategic Priorities are firmly rooted in our mission and vision to create tangible benefits with measurable value for everyone in our community.
Our priorities focus on two themes:
Community Impact
Maximizing our positive influence on the community through programs, services, and partnerships.
Organizational Capacity Building
Strengthening our internal capabilities to effectively achieve our goals and sustain our impact.
Community Impact Strategy
Prioritize Youth & Family Engagement
The YMCA empowers youth, engages families, and builds community.
Community Challenges:
36%
of young people report being in a physical fight in the last year (source)
1 in 7
young people aged 5-19 worldwide experience a mental health disorder (source)
33%
of households in Metropolitan Detroit earn below the poverty level (source)
Outcomes by 2028:
+7%
annual enrollment growth across all youth-based programs
10,000
children learn to swim and be safe around water through community partnerships and safety coalitions
+25%
enrollment growth in outdoor programming among underrepresented or underserved youth and families
Community Impact Strategy
Expand Health and Well-Being
The YMCA expands health and well-being by prioritizing connection, prevention, and lifelong vitality.
Community Challenges:
27%
of people in Metropolitan Detroit report that they exercise regularly (source)
14%
of Metro Detroiters actively seek info on nutrition and a healthy diet (source)
XX Million+
another regional fact about wellness (source)
Outcomes by 2028:
16,000
households enrolled in YMCA membership
+3%
year-over-year increase in member loyalty
+5%
annual participation increase of adults and seniors in evidence-based health initiative programs
+2%
annual growth in member retention
Organizational Capacity Building Strategy
Ensure Financial and Operational Sustainability
The YMCA ensures financial and operational sustainability by balancing long-term stability with adaptable, mission-driven strategies.
Community Challenges:
XX%
a problematic fact goes here (source)
X in X
another problematic fact here (source)
XX Million+
a third problematic fact (source)
Outcomes by 2028:
30%
of annual operating revenue through annual giving, grants, major giving, and partnerships to support community initiatives and under-resourced populations
$2M
raised annually in campaign support to expand access and opportunity to the Y
Organizational Capacity Building Strategy
Increase Brand Familiarity and Visibility
The YMCA will strengthen its identity as a trusted, community-driven leader and expand recognition of its lasting impact.
Community Challenges:
XX%
a problematic branding fact (source)
1 in X
another problematic fact about branding and media presence (source)
XX Million+
the final problematic fact about brand visibility (source)
Outcomes by 2028:
+15%
expanded presence and influence in local media
+20%
increase in the community of the YMCA’s historical legacy and current impact
+30%
increase in social media engagement
Organizational Capacity Building Strategy
Invest in Our People and Culture
The YMCA will empower staff, build leadership, and foster a thriving, mission-driven environment.
Community Challenges:
66%
of workers across the US report feeling not engaged at work (source)
1 in X
new hires at the YMCA leave their job within the first year (source)
63 Million
Americans — 25% of the adult population — volunteer their time, talents, and energy to making a difference (source)
Outcomes by 2028:
80%
of staff will achieve a minimum “exceeds position requirements and expectations” annual performance rating
Become the not-for-profit board of choice for high-caliber volunteers seeking to connect the Y’s mission impact to community needs
Rank as an organization of choice to work, volunteer, and serve by staff and volunteers
Strategy Screen for Decision-Making
These criteria help us assess whether a new strategy or opportunity aligns with our organization. Using this strategy screen ensures future initiatives support our strategic plan.
Strategic Alignment
How does this opportunity or initiative align with the organization’s strategic priorities?
Impact Potential
What is the expected impact on the community, organization, or both?
How will the impact be measured?
Feasibility
How feasible is the initiative to execute given current resources, capabilities, and time constraints?
Sustainability
Will this opportunity or initiative be sustainable in the long term?
Does it require ongoing investment, and is there a plan for maintaining it?
Resource Availability
What are the necessary resources (funding, personnel, equipment) available for this opportunity or initiative?
Scalability
How can the opportunity or initiative be scaled or adapted for broader community reach or increased impact over time?
Risk & Complexity
What are the risks or challenges involved in the implementation of this initiative?
Stakeholder Support
How does the opportunity or initiative have support from key stakeholders, including staff, community members, and donors?
Our Strategic Plan Task Force
Community Leaders:
xxxxxxx
xxxxxxxx
xxxxx
xxxxx
YMCA Staff:
Jacqueline Kippen
Lisa Mullin
Dawn Palmer-Van Camp
Lynette Simmons
Parrish Underwood
Support the Y
When you support the Y, you help empower young people, improve overall health and well-being and strengthen connections with neighbors that build a more vibrant Southeast Michigan.