The organization serves more than 130,000 people annually across 131 program sites in San Francisco, San Mateo, and Marin counties. Its initiatives focus on improving access to essential services, reducing barriers to participation, and creating opportunities for residents of different ages and backgrounds to build healthier and more connected communities.
During fiscal year 2025-2026, the YMCA provided $9.1 million in membership and health subsidies, including $4 million in direct financial assistance. These resources supported 11,088 individuals, helping families and community members access recreational facilities, wellness programs, and other services regardless of financial circumstances.
Food security remained another major priority. Through community partnerships, the organization distributed 5.9 million pounds of fresh groceries to help address food insecurity throughout its service area.
The YMCA also continued expanding its youth development initiatives, serving approximately 10,000 young people daily and maintaining its position as San Francisco’s largest nonprofit youth-serving organization. Its programs include educational enrichment, mentorship, leadership development, and recreational activities designed to support children’s physical, emotional, and social development.
Through the Youth Empowerment Fund and youth councils, the organization distributed $425,000 in youth-led grants, providing young people with opportunities to participate in community decision-making and support locally driven initiatives.
Water safety and aquatics education represented another area of impact, with 4,457 children participating in swimming and water safety programs during the fiscal year.
The annual report also highlights Community as Medicine, a 12-week, evidence-based initiative designed to improve health and well-being through social connection. The program reflects the YMCA’s broader emphasis on addressing isolation, strengthening relationships, and recognizing community belonging as an important component of overall wellness.
In response to a teachers’ strike in San Francisco, the organization established full-day emergency childcare centers that served 671 children. The temporary facilities provided safe environments for learning and recreation while allowing working parents to manage disruptions to their regular childcare arrangements.
Looking ahead, the YMCA is advancing its ReImagine Peninsula initiative, which will establish the organization’s first intentionally designed community well-being center. The project is intended to address increasing demand for facilities that integrate mental wellness, social connection, and intergenerational activities.
Construction is expected to begin in spring 2027 at the Peninsula Family YMCA. The project represents part of the organization’s longer-term strategy to develop spaces that support a broader range of community health and wellness needs.
The 2025-2026 Annual Report, titled Together: Building Healthier Communities, also includes personal accounts from community members illustrating how the YMCA’s programs have supported individuals and families throughout the Bay Area.
KEY QUOTES:
“Community well-being begins with connection, belonging and access to opportunity. Whether we’re helping families navigate challenges, supporting older adults, connecting young people with mentors, or making health and wellness more accessible, our work is rooted in a simple belief: we are not well unless we are all well.”
Jamie Bruning-Miles, President And CEO Of The YMCA Of Greater San Francisco
