Through advocacy at the local, state and federal levels, the Y is bringing families safe and affordable child care and afterschool options; making healthy choices available in communities to help prevent chronic disease; and ensuring that Ys have the ability to be a resource for healthy living, youth development and social responsibility in the communities they serve.

Lend Your Voice

The Y is a cause for strengthening community, working tirelessly to nurture the potential of kids, improve the nation’s health and well-being and give back and support our neighbors. When you advocate with the Y, you take an active role in bringing about meaningful, enduring change for your family, friends and community.

For Policy Makers

In Washington D.C., our Government Relations and Policy office works with Congress and the administration to advocate for policies and programs that help Ys strengthen communities throughout the nation. Serving more than 20 million members – more than 9 million members under the age of 18 – there is a Y in every congressional district in the United States strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

Healthier Communities Initiatives

At the Y, we work with community leaders to make the healthy choice the easy choice in all of the places where people live, work, learn and play.