About Us

Though the Y has evolved over time, our holistic approach to health and well-being has been a consistent theme in our history. Relationships help others to weather the ups and downs of change. With the support of a collaboration of members, volunteers, and community partners, the Foundation YMCA makes a huge impact and improves the health and well-being in our community.

Although our history is short, it is equally as mission-driven. We strive to reinforce a sense of personal worth of self and others. Our values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility are absolutely at core to who we are. They drive our work as a cause-driven human service organization.

We believe that everyone has the desire to be well and that well-being is best cultivated by sharing supportive relationships and environments. The Y provides a welcoming, safe, and supportive place for all ages to become healthier and stay well in spirit, mind, and body. Our cause is to strengthen our community.

Sara Nuñez, CEO
Foundation YMCA of Wilson

The Young Men's Christian Association was founded in London, England, on June 6, 1844, in response to unhealthy social conditions arising in big cities at the end of the Industrial Revolution. The idea proved popular everywhere, arriving in North America in 1851 with the first U.S. Y in Boston.

The Y movement began in Wilson, NC, in February 2000 when about 80 interested residents met at Forest Hills Middle School. YMCA status was officially granted on December 21, 2001. The Fitness Company was purchased in February 2002, with additional space added in 2003, and The Robin Givens Youth Wellness Center dedicated in July 2009.

In late 2022, the Foundation YMCA moved to its modern facility at 233 Nash Street W in Historic Downtown Wilson. Today, as part of the largest non-profit community service organization in the United States, the Y remains open for all faiths, races, ages, abilities, and incomes—welcoming everyone in our community.