2026 -- H 8496

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     STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2026

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H O U S E   R E S O L U T I O N

CELEBRATING THE 175TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE YMCA IN THE UNITED STATES

AND RECOGNIZING THE IMPACT OF THE RHODE ISLAND ALLIANCE OF YMCAS

     Introduced By: Representatives Shekarchi, Blazejewski, Casimiro, Chippendale,
Solomon, Alzate, Stewart, Kazarian, Read, and Kennedy

     Date Introduced: April 30, 2026

     Referred To: House read and passed

     WHEREAS, The Young Men’s Christian Association, known as the YMCA, marks its

175th anniversary in the United States in 2026, having been founded in Boston in 1851 with a

mission that has strengthened communities for generations; and

     WHEREAS, For 175 years, the YMCA has adapted to meet the changing needs of

communities, bringing people together, fostering belonging, and supporting the health and well-

being of individuals and families across the nation; and

     WHEREAS, The YMCA’s legacy includes advancing youth development, expanding

access to education and recreation, pioneering swim instruction, supporting working families

through child care and afterschool programs, and responding to community needs in times of

crisis; and

     WHEREAS, Today, YMCAs continue to serve as trusted community institutions

dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility for people of all ages,

backgrounds, and abilities; and

     WHEREAS, In Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Alliance of YMCAs brings together 5

associations and 12 branches in service to communities across the state; and

     WHEREAS, In 2025, Rhode Island YMCAs served thousands of children and families

through childcare, afterschool, and summer camp programs, helped more than 8,400 community

members learn to swim, and provided more than $3 million in financial assistance and

scholarships to expand access to programs and services statewide; and

     WHEREAS, YMCAs across Rhode Island continue to strengthen communities by

supporting youth success, improving health and well-being, and ensuring that all people have

access to spaces where they are welcomed, supported, and connected; now, therefore be it

     RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby

congratulates the YMCA on the occasion of its 175th anniversary in the United States; and be it

further

     RESOLVED, That this House hereby recognizes the Rhode Island Alliance of YMCAs

and its member associations for their enduring service and meaningful impact in communities

throughout the State of Rhode Island; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That this House expresses its appreciation to the staff, volunteers, board

members, and community partners whose commitment continues to advance the YMCA’s

mission and strengthen the lives of Rhode Islanders; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to

transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to Ms. Suzanne McCormick, President and CEO

of the YMCA of the USA and the Rhode Island Alliance of YMCAs.

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