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
- One class per week for 16 weeks
- Dinner during class included
- Free child care for the class duration
- Graduation ceremony at the end of the course
- Free 1-year membership to the Y.
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