The YMCA of West San Gabriel Valley was started in 1912 by State Senator N.W. Thompson, Spencer W. Hudson, and Judge W.H. Northrup with a budget of $1,250!
In the 1930’s Miss Catherine Soper deeded two plots of land for a facility. As time passed, the YMCA opened a new facility in 1952 which was outgrown in 1985. Through a partnership with the City of Alhambra, and under the leadership of YMCA Board President Peppy Sciarra, the current site opened in 1993 with significant upgrades for programs. A long term lease was negotiated and we began serving the cities of the West San Gabriel Valley.
In 2018, California State Assembly Member representing the 49th District, Ed Chau, championed a $1.825 million dollar grant from the California State Department of Education for a 10,000 square foot Children’s Center and Family Locker Room. This grant was historic, being the first ever awarded to a YMCA.
Our current site of Camp Ta Ta Pochon, located in the San Bernardino Mountains on Barton Creek, was founded in 1922 by then Secretary W.E. Stevenson with a budget underwritten by the Alhambra Kiwanis Club. The first campers attended in the summer of 1923.
The YMCA has grown with the communities served, and has held steadfast to a commitment of programs that build youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
Nationwide, YMCAs engage nearly 10 million children in a wealth of enriching activities. YMCAs help families build bonds, connect with community resources and become strong and self-sufficient. YMCAs nationally have impacted families, communities, and childrens’ lives for nearly 160 years.
Since its founding in 1844 in London, the YMCA has grown into one of the largest volunteer organizations in the world, serving more than 45 million people in 124 countries. Each year, the YMCA partners with local organizations to develop and implement effective, collaborative programs and community-based solutions. Financial assistance for programs and membership is made available through public and private support, as well as YMCA members.
