West San Gabriel Valley YMCA

Mission Statement

The mission and purpose of the West San Gabriel Valley YMCA is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy body, mind and spirit for all.

In 1912 three men (State Senator N. W. Thompson, Spencer W. Hudson, and Judge W. H. Northrup) in this community got together to do something constructive for youth - and that was the very beginning of the West San Gabriel Valley YMCA! The budget? $1250!

The Association grew and ultimately a full time secretary (equivalent of today's executive director) was employed. An office was established in a second story room the east side of West Main Street and was later moved to two rooms on the north side East Main Street.

The first camping program was at the mouth of the San Gabriel Canyon, where a building made of stone was constructed and then washed away by flood. Our current site of Camp Ta Ta on Barton Creek was located in 1922 by then Secretary W.E Stevenson. A budget of $3200 was underwritten by the Alhambra Kiwanis Club set up camp that year. In the 30's Miss Catherine Soper deeded two plots where the current Bank of America stands to the Y and $5000 was raised to construct a brick building.

There was several different YMCA office locations. In 1952 a new building opened with a dressing room, pool, and offices. Men & Women's locker room was added on. In 1985 the Y had outgrown the building again.

Through a partnership with the City of Alhambra, the current site was negotiated on a long term lease basis and fundraising began. The facility, first opened in 1993 was a significant upgrade for programs. The YMCA has grown with the communities served, and has held steadfast to a commitment of programs that build healthy kids, healthy families, and healthy communities.