YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City

MISSION

OUR MISSION STATEMENT

To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

Learn more

Christian Principles

Our principles unite us as a global movement. These shared beliefs and essential principles guide our behavior, interactions with each other and decision-making.

Respect

To treat others as you wish to be treated.

Love

To love others as we love ourselves.

Peace

Role in being maintainers of peace in community.

Grace

Offering kindness and assistance to those in need. 

Empowerment

To uplift our community by offering resources and assistance for all. 

Caring

Show a sincere concern for others.

Faith

Strength gained from trusting in what is unseen.

Hope

Impact of the YMCA’s hopeful spirit.

Honesty

Be truthful in what you say and do.

Responsibility

Concern for and welcoming of all.

Justice

To help build a fair and just community.

Servanthood

Commitment to do for others what is needed.

GETTING

AHEAD

Getting Ahead is a program that exemplifies our Christian Mission. It is designed to help individuals and families build sustainable futures and equips participants with the tools and knowledge to move from instability to self-sufficiency.

Participants gain the tools and support needed to set goals, make lasting changes and create a brighter future to thrive, not just survive.

Evaluate

Participants reflect on their life circumstances, challenges, and resources, fostering an understanding of how poverty impacts their lives.

Learn critical skills

This program covers practical topics such as financial literacy, goal setting, problem-solving, and community resource navigation to break the cycles of dependency.

 

Create personalized plans

Each participant develops a personal action plan for their future, outlining steps toward financial independence, career growth, and stable housing.

Build a support network

We emphasize building strong relationships with peers and mentors, creating a sense of accountability and encouragement. The YMCA is space for participants to share experiences and grow together.

WHAT TO EXPECT

HELP YOUR NEIGHBORS

GET AHEAD

Fighting poverty is a team effort. The Y is looking for class facilitators to work with adults and youth facilitators to work with school-aged children in the Getting Ahead classes under the Bridges Out of Poverty program.

Getting Ahead classes will be held at multiple YMCA locations at various times. Classes are 16 weeks and meet for 3 hours each week. Each position will receive a stipend for their time.

IMPACT OF

GETTING AHEAD

300

Families served

88%

Graduation rate

93%

Of families maintain safe and stable housing a year after graduation

64%

Of graduates maintain or increase stable income

82%

Of families after graduation no longer need social services for housing costs

CONTACT

& SUPPORT

Interested in learning more about the Getting Ahead or how you can support the program? Please fill out our interest form.

COACHES PRAYER

BREAKFAST

Coaches play a crucial role in the development of our young YMCA athletes. Our Coaches Prayer Breakfasts are fundraising events that help us provide opportunities to develop the character and physical skills of young athletes, while also helping the Y expand our Christian mission across several Oklahoma communities.

SUPPORT OUR

NEXT BREAKFAST

Interested in supporting the next time we host this event?

Contact Makenzie Dean at MDean@ymcaokc.org.

CHRISTIAN MISSION

IN THE NEWS

Explore recent awards, interviews and stories that highlight how the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City is bringing its Christian mission to life in our communities.

2024 Oklahoma Turning Point Council’s OTC Community Health Champions

Joe Kendrick & JB Rowe

This award is given annually to those making significant strides in improving health and health outcomes for all Oklahomans. Congratulations to Joe and JB for their incredible work and impact with the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City. 

THE CHRISTIAN

MISSION TEAM

Joe Kendrick

Executive Director of Christian Mission

JB Rowe

Associate Director of Getting Ahead

Johnna Koss

Getting Ahead Coordinator

All YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City locations will be closed on Monday, September 2 in observance of Labor Day. 24/7 access will remain available at locations where the service is offered. Work out with us anytime with YMCA360.