To celebrate the YMCA's 180th anniversary, the YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW) is giving away prizes to members and prospective members. Members who visit a YGBW branch through Friday, June 14, may win a prize such as a free month of membership or a 30-minute personal training session. Prospective members who visit between Monday, June 17, and Friday, June 28, can take advantage of in-branch offers such as no join fee and more.

To add to the celebration, a donor has offered to match donations to YGBW up to $30,000. All funds will be used to grant need-based scholarships for swim lessons, child care, summer camp, and more.

YGBW is committed to serving all in the community and does not turn away those who cannot afford its services. Instead, the Y offers need-based scholarships, which are made possible by donors. To contribute, visit https://ymcagbw.org/donatenow.

On June 6, 1844, George Williams and 11 other young men gathered in London for a meeting that led to the founding of the YMCA. Today, YMCAs around the globe serve communities through swim lessons, child care, youth development, and other programs.

In addition, the YMCA is associated with holidays, sports, and institutions that touch people's lives to this day. For example, celebrations such as Father's Day, organizations like the Peace Corps, and sports such as basketball, racquetball, and volleyball have their roots at the Y. YMCA leader John R. Mott was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1946 for the Y's role in raising global awareness and support and for the organization's humanitarian efforts. Additionally, the Y had an early role in public libraries, night school for adult education, and English as a Second Language (ESL) courses.