creator:

Ames/Iowa State University Young Men’s Christian Association (Y

title:

Records

dates:

1880-ongoing

extent:

0.42 linear ft.  (1 document box)

collection number:

RS 22/10/0/3

repository:

University Archives, Iowa State University.

access:

Open for research

publication rights:

Consult Head, Special Collections Department

preferred citation:

Ames/Iowa State University YMCA Records, RS 22/10/0/3, Special Collections Department, Iowa State University Library.

Organizational note

The Ames/Iowa State University Young Christian Men’s Association (YMCA) was organized as an informal fellowship in 1887, and associated with the national organization in 1890.  The group was incorporated in 1904.  The original goals of the group were as follows: “To lead students to faith in God through Jesus Christ; to lead them into membership and service in the Christian Church; to promote growth in Christian faith, especially through the study of the Bible and prayer; to influence them to devote themselves in united effort with all Christians to make the will of Christ effective in human society, and to extend the Kingdom of God throughout the world; and to carry on such other activities as may promote the moral, social, and physical welfare of the student body.

The YMCA was housed in Alumni Hall (built with YMCA and Alumni Association funds) for many years (1907-1994).  Currently located in the Lab of Mechanics, the Ames/Iowa State University YMCA operates a variety of programs of youth and service projects, internship and community opportunities, an aquatics program, and an outdoor facility, Lynn Fuhrer Outdoor Center.

Collection Description

This collection contains mission and by-laws, history of the Iowa State chapter, correspondence, program information, financial records, printed materials, brochures, biographical information concerning YMCA personnel, newspaper clippings about YMCA activities and other sponsored programs, and the transfer of the Alumni building to the Iowa State.