The Guidelines of the YMCA

The work of the YMCA is based on the "Paris Basis" of the Worlds Alliance of YMCA and the additional declaration of the National Association of the YMCA in Germany: "The Young Men's Christian Association seeks to unite those young men who, regarding Jesus Christ as their God and Saviour, according to the Holy Scriptures, desire to be his disciples in their faith and in their life, and to associate their efforts for the extension of his Kingdom amongst young men. Any differences of opinion on other subjects, however important in itself, shall not interfere with the harmonious relations of the constituent members and associates of the World Alliance." (Paris 1855)

"The YMCA was founded as an association of young men. Today membership is open to anybody. Men and women, boys and girls from all peoples, denominations and social classes of the worldwide fellowship in the YMCA. In the National Association of the YMCA in Germany, the Paris Basis today applies to the work with all young people." (Kassel 1985/2000).

The active leaders in the YMCA are united in their faith in Jesus Christ. They belong to different christian churches. The YMCA is a part of the worldwide community of Jesus Christ. Its missionary work contributes to the building up of this community. The YMCA strives for the cooperation with the christian churches.

Volunteer work is essential in the YMCA. Volunteers and professionals work together as partners.

The participation in the programmes of the YMCA is open to boys and girls, women and men from all social, ethnic, cultural and religious groups. The programmes offered, foster mutual understanding and respect. YMCAs prior aim is to help young adults, youth and children to experience the love of God through personal care and accompaniment and invites to find their faith in Jesus Christ.

In the fellowship of the YMCA all people shall experience appreciation, discover and develop their talents and take responsibility in accordance with their abilities.

The work of YMCA is done holistically. It regards the human being as an integrated whole of body, mind and spirit, in their relationship to themselves, to other human beings, to creation and to God. The work materializes in a variety of forms of youth work, youth education and social youth work.

The YMCA is a youth association based on democratic principles and practices. It lobbies for the interests of young people in youth politics and supports them in their efforts to take social responsibility.

The YMCAs are linked together in a network regionally, nationally and internationally, hence they offer young people the chance to learn from each other through meetings and mutual exchanges and to fight for a more equitable living together of people in this world.

Adopted by the Executive Commitee of National Assocation of the YMCA in Germay on 13 April 2002.

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