The Coimbatore chapter of the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) is inviting applications from those interested in becoming its members. The memberships are open for men and women from all walks of life.

The Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) is an international association that has a presence in about 144 countries and membership strength of 45 billion. The Coimbatore chapter of YMCA was established in the year 1913 by Robert Stanes, the British businessman and philanthropist. YMCA, Coimbatore is set up in 2.8-acre land locate behind the Coimbatore Junction railway station.

Currently, the association has 2,000 members. The annual membership fee for those who are below 18-years old is just Rs.200, and those who are 19-years and above pay Rs. 800/- as annual membership fee. Those who wish to join YMCA as life members will have to make a one-time payment of Rs.10,000.

The members enjoy privileges like discount on accommodation across YMCA’s all over the world. They are also entitled to other benefits like free basketball coaching, and they are allowed to use the sports and recreation facilities of the YMCA. Sources at YMCA Coimbatore say that the first tennis court in Coimbatore city was set up here.

“This May we have plans of organizing a summer basketball training camp for men and women. Our members can register for free,” John S, Secretary, YMCA, Coimbatore says.

YMCA Coimbatore has partnered with three hospitals in the city and they conduct medical camps that are attended by hundreds of people. Last year alone, the association organized four medical camps. Education is another area of interest for YMCA Coimbatore. In the last two-and-a-half years, the members of this association have supported the educational expenses of nearly 30 students. “We verify the credibility of the student who requests for educational support. We get in touch with the educational institution that the student is enrolled in and only when we are sure that the student is really deserving enough and cannot pay for his or her education do we come forward to fund them,” John says.

The activities of YMCA are governed by its board members who are appointed every year. YMCA Coimbatore’s future plans include implementing projects that are targeted at the weaker sections of the society in areas like health, education, and hygiene.