Young Mens Christian Association of Greater Houston Area
Public records show a registered, tax-exempt organization in good standing.
Points to look into
- It reported loans to or from officers, directors or other insiders.
These come from the organization's own tax return. There may be a good explanation; ask the charity.
What it says it does
It is the mission of the YMCA of Greater Houston to put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. See Schedule O.
- Income
- $120.4 million
- Spending
- $122.1 million
- Spent on programs
- 83%
- Reserves
- -7 months of spending
- Largest source of income
- fees for its services, 68%
- Employees
- 5,548
- Volunteers
- 4,282
- Highest pay
- $741,746, president and ceo
Source: Form 990 for the year ending December 31, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Financial health
Weak: 33 out of 100. Higher than 4% of charities in its peer group (human services, over $100m).
Reserves
0 of 35Spendable reserves are negative: it owes or has committed more than it holds.
Debt
10 of 20It owes 44% of what it owns.
Living within its means
8 of 15Spending exceeded income by 1% of income.
Income trend
0 of 15Income fell 27% on the year before.
Spending floor
15 of 1583% of spending went to programs and raising each dollar of donations cost 8 cents.
Source: Form 990 for the year ending December 31, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Governance
Strong: 90 out of 100. Higher than 10% of charities in its peer group (human services, over $100m).
Independent board
25 of 2545 of 45 voting board members are independent.
Conflict of interest policy
15 of 15Has a written conflict of interest policy.
Whistleblower policy
8 of 8Has a written whistleblower policy.
Record keeping policy
7 of 7Has a written policy on keeping and destroying records.
Board minutes
5 of 5Keeps minutes of board meetings.
Board sees the tax return
10 of 10Gave the board a copy of this return before filing it.
Pay set independently
5 of 5Sets its chief executive's pay through independent review and comparison.
Independent check of accounts
15 of 15Its accounts were audited by an independent accountant.
No reported misuse
0 of 10Reports at least one of: diversion of assets, excess benefits, loans to insiders.
Source: Form 990 for the year ending December 31, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Impact evidence
Describes programs. Its tax return describes what it does but we have found no measurable results in it.
Programs described in its return (3)
- $48.5 million spent. Healthy Living The YMCA of Greater Houston plays a vital role in enhancing community health by addressing chronic diseases and reducing the risk of drowning through targeted programs. Through inclusive programming designed for all-regardless of economic circumstance or location-the Y offers mindful activities and guidance on active living. A holistic approach empowers all community members to work toward a healthy spirit, mind, and body, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to thrive. See Schedule O for additional information. Line 4a (Expenses $ 48,501,371) (Grants $ 44,083) (Revenue $ 60,855,183) HEALTHIER FAMILIES Participants: Facility Members 13,150+ The YMCA is committed to building strong communities by providing resources for families to live their safest and healthiest lives. We assist families in battling chronic diseases and obesity, eliminating the risk of drowning, and preventing child abuse. By taking advantage of our deep roots in the community and strong ties to local healthcare providers and other service organizations, the YMCA has the infrastructure to improve the health and safety of our families by providing programs to help prevent or reverse these critical issues. 1. Safety Around Water, 3,350+ participants Swimming is a crucial life skill for people of all ages. The YMCA's Aquatics programs play a vital role in the Greater Houston community by equipping individuals with essential skills that save lives and provide a healthy form of exercise. Beyond group and private lessons, the YMCA's Safety Around Water (SAW) program specifically aims to prevent drowning by fostering awareness and education through foundational swim skills. By partnering with local apartments, school districts, and other organizations, the Y actively works to create a safer environment for everyone and strives to provide all community members with the opportunity to feel confident around water. 2. Aquatics Programs, 9,800+ participants No matter the age, swimming is a vital skill. Whether ensuring people know how to survive in emergency situations or in offering an alternative form of exercise, the YMCA of Greater Houston's aquatics programs have a profound impact on the Greater Houston Community. 3. Health and Wellness, 4.1MM fitness facility visits At the Y, health is strengthened through relationships that motivate consistency and celebrate progress in all forms. Group classes become communities of accountability. Personal training sessions become moments of renewed focus. Over time, connection helps turn intention into routine. To support every stage of the wellness journey, the YMCA offers a range of opportunities that meet people where they are and help them move forward.
- $32.3 million spent. Youth Development Children and teens can unlock their full potential through enhanced educational readiness and the closing of achievement gaps. By building and instilling confidence in today's youth, the YMCA ensures our young leaders develop into engaged and contributing adults in the future. See Schedule O for additional information. Line 4b (Expenses $ 32,273,406) (Grants $ 1,651,482) (Revenue $ 19,945,570) YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Participants: 35,800+ Individuals served: 65,000+ We believe that all children and teens have potential. Thanks to the YMCA, more young people are taking a greater interest in learning and making smart life choices. Working with caring Y staff, children and teens can realize their potential by improving their educational readiness and closing achievement gaps. By building confident kids today, the Y is helping to ensure that they will become contributing and engaged adults tomorrow. 1. Teens, 65,000+ of people served at the Y are ages 10 through 19 At the YMCA, teens find connection during a pivotal stage on their path to adulthood, when identity, confidence, and purpose begin to crystallize. Some arrive eager to lead; others arrive seeking guidance and even more arrive in search of a place where they can be understood as themselves. At the Y, supportive relationships help teens feel seen, heard, and encouraged to grow. Through Y Teen L.I.F.E. (Leadership, Inspiration, Fellowship, Education), teens connect with mentors, peers, and opportunities that challenge and support them. Leadership initiatives foster reflection and teamwork, while college and career readiness programs offer pathways and practical skills for the future. Programs like Youth and Government invite participants to connect and discuss real-world civic issues. Surrounded by people who believe in them, teens develop purpose, accountability, and confidence that carries into school, careers, and life beyond the Y. 2. Youth Sports, 14,300+ youth Children arrive at youth sports with different emotions and expectations. Some are eager to play, while others may feel unsure of their abilities or be hesitant to join a team. At the YMCA, connection creates a supportive environment where every child is welcomed and encouraged. Through team practices and games, participants connect with volunteer coaches who model resilience, communication, and accountability. At the Y, a shy player learns to call for the ball. A child who once feared mistakes finds success through effort and persistence. Wins and losses become opportunities to learn together. As children build relationships on the fields and courts, they develop character, teamwork, and confidence, which carry into school, friendships, and future employment. 3. YMCA Camp Cullen, 8,700 youth and adult campers Nestled among the pines along Lake Livingston, YMCA Camp Cullen creates connection through time spent outdoors, shared challenges, and a break from day-to-day life. Away from screens and daily routines, campers step into an environment where relationships with counselors and cabin mates encourage independence, curiosity, and courage. Across the camp experience, young people connect through outdoor exploration, hands-on adventure, and shared traditions. From paddling across the lake to cheering one another on around the campfire, these moments build trust, resilience, and friendship. At Camp Cullen, connections formed in the outdoors become milestones of growth, shaping confidence, belonging, and memories that endure far beyond the camp. 4. Out of School Time and Early Care, 5,800+ youth through 157 Out of School Time Sites and 3 Early Care Sites In YMCA Early Care and Out of School Time programs, children find connection during the moments that shape them most. From a toddler taking their first steps to a school-age child settling into routine after the final bell, these trusted relationships help children feel safe and supported. Across Greater Houston, working families rely on the Y for consistent care before and after school, and during the summer months. With caring educators and welcoming environments, children connect with peers and mentors who encourage curiosity and collaboration. Through play, creativity, and hands-on learning, friendships form, confidence builds, and interests begin to take shape. At the YMCA, early connections become the foundation for lifelong learning, healthy relationships, and a lasting sense of belonging. 5. Y on the Fly, 2,200+ youth Y on the Fly: A Mobile Makerspace brings STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), coding, and robotics directly into neighborhoods, connecting youth and families to hands-on learning where access to YMCA facilities may be limited. By meeting communities where they are, the program creates meaningful connections that spark curiosity and collaboration. With mobile hubs serving different areas, young people build problem-solving skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging as they explore new ideas and prepare for the challenges ahead. 6. Day Camp, 4,800+ campers YMCA Summer Day Camp offers a safe and healthy atmosphere where youth can enjoy their summer break. Special emphasis is placed on youth choice, achievement and a sense of belonging, with exciting themed weeks, sports, games, new friends and adventure. Other activities may include creative and performing arts, archery, engineering and nature exploration. At the Y, your kids will leave ordinary at the door and prepare to learn and grow with positive role models encouraging campers to take on new challenges. All of our camps include a mix of indoor and outdoor activities in a group setting at YMCA locations across the Houston area. Campers are sure to discover unexpected fun! Activities may include art, STEAM activities, theatre, sports and outdoor games, literacy, group games and big events. Your child is sure to make their mark this summer at the YMCA. Membership, 179,000+ individuals engaged across Greater Houston comm
- $20.8 million spent. Inclusive Communities The YMCA of Greater Houston has proven communities are stronger when everyone has an opportunity to succeed and improve their quality of life. The YMCA of Greater Houston strives to serve all segments of our collective society by unifying our community through membership and scholarship for all. The YMCA of Greater Houston is not a place but a purpose, everyone is welcome. See Schedule O for additional information. Line 4c (Expenses $ 20,816,321) (Grants $ 3,937,010) (Revenue $ 459,054) INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES Participants: 79,090+ Across Greater Houston, the YMCA creates spaces where people of all abilities, backgrounds, and life circumstances are welcomed and supported. Through inclusive programs and community-centered services, individuals gain dignity, stability, and discover brighter pathways toward opportunity. 1. Adaptive Programs for Youth and Adults with Disabilities, 580+ participants Through adaptive sports, aquatics, and recreation, community members participate in activities they would otherwise be unable to, allowing for friendships to form and meaningful moments to happen. Volunteers and families grow alongside them, building relationships rooted in respect and shared purpose. 2. ForeverWell, 50,000+ participants For many older adults, isolation can quietly take hold as routines change and social circles shrink. At the YMCA, connection replaces isolation with familiarity, movement, and renewed purpose. Through our ForeverWell program, older adults connect with peers and staff who greet them by name, move alongside them in class, and create opportunities for learning and social engagement. These shared experiences foster friendship, routine, and a sense of belonging that strengthens both physical and emotional health. Through connection, seniors find encouragement, dignity, and continued engagement in the life of the community. 3. Community Impact Services, 23,510+ participants The YMCA of Greater Houston's community impact programs connect individuals and families to essential resources that support long-term self-sustainability. Through trusted relationships and coordinated support, the YMCA helps people navigate complex situations and overcome barriers that stand in the way of stability and independence. At the start of 2025, YMCA International Services continued its long-standing role in welcoming newcomers to Houston through civics courses and supportive learning environments that helped individuals build early connections in their new community. For more than 45 years, the YMCA has partnered with the federal government to support newcomers. In 2025, changes in federal funding allocations and national resettlement priorities required the YMCA to reflect on what services would make the largest impact for our community. In response, the YMCA has shifted to offering Community Impact Services, a collection of programs that work to connect individuals and families with resources that support dignity, stability, and long-term self-sufficiency. While the structure for International Services has evolved, the YMCA's commitment to serving the community remained unchanged.
Source: Form 990 for the year ending December 31, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Legitimacy checks
Is it registered with the IRS? Passed.
Listed in the IRS master file of tax-exempt organizations as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.
Has the IRS revoked its tax-exempt status? Passed.
Not on the IRS automatic revocation list.
Source: Automatic revocation of exemption list, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.
Are donations tax-deductible? Passed.
On the IRS list of organizations eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions.
Source: Publication 78 data: organizations eligible for tax-deductible contributions, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.
Is it keeping up with its IRS filings? Passed.
Most recent return on file covers the year ending December 2025.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.
How long has it been tax-exempt? Passed.
Recognized by the IRS since October 1962.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.
Is it in good standing with state regulators? Passed.
Not on California's list of charities barred from soliciting. Other states are not yet checked.
Source: May Not Operate or Solicit for Charitable Purposes list, California Attorney General, Registry of Charities and Fundraisers, file dated October 21, 2026.
Ratings and checks are our reading of public records, using the published method. They are not a statement about anyone's honesty. If you work for this organization, you can send corrections or results, confirm you want gifts through Veridonate, or ask to be removed from giving.