Here’s a glance at our rich history, and a snapshot of our many successes over the last 160 years on behalf of the individuals and communities we are privileged to serve. History. By empowering young people to reach their full potential, improving individual and community well-being and giving back and inspiring action in our communities, the Y ensures that everyone has the opportunity to become healthier, more confident, connected and secure. Today, the Y engages more than 10,000 neighborhoods across the U.S. As the nation’s leading nonprofit committed to helping people and communities to learn, grow and thrive, our contributions are both far-reaching and intimate—from influencing our nation’s culture during times of profound social change to the individual support we provide an adult learning to read.