SWOT Analysis

YMCA of South Hampton Roads (Virginia Beach, VA)

The mission statement of the YMCA is:  “To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. With that and our cause of strengthening community, we're here to make coastal Virginia and northeastern North Carolina a better place to live.” 

YMCA History:

1800’s:

• The first YMCA was conceived in industrial London in 1844 when a farmer-turned-department store worker and his friends gathered to organize a refuge for young men seeking escape from the hazards of the streets.

1900s:

• The YMCA’s formative years were inspired by growth, which saw the organization's mission spread to cities across the U.S., lifting people and strengthening communities.

2000’s:

• Once again, the Y played an instrumental role in times of crisis during the 2000s, providing essential services and support when and where it was needed most. They also adapted to the evolving landscape of health and well-being with new programs and partnerships designed to support generational changes in young people and modern-day families.

  
  

SWOT Analysis

Strengths: Donor funds strengthen communities in many ways. The YMCA continuously recognizes its importance and is committed to full financial transparency. Also, the YMCA offers numerous staffing roles for individuals to apply for. Some of the few include camp counselors, lifeguards, fitness instructors, personal trainers, and many more. The YMCA is an excellent place for many young and older people to come and experience fun and adventure. Many activities, classes, and events they hold make a lasting impression on many people. They serve the community and those who genuinely need a helping hand. They will always be there.

Weaknesses: The YMCA needs help adapting to specific situations and aspects that arise. They need more budget constraints, staff, experience or willingness from the board of directors, and numerous other areas they could continue working on. Also, since they are a non-profit organization, they could suffer from bringing in said budget, leaving them at a crossroads regarding their ability to provide certain services.

Opportunities: The location of many YMCAs is crucial for bringing in revenue and people attending them. The Wavy Chruch is held on Sundays and can continue to attract a diverse group of people. Reaching out to the community is also an opportunity for the YMCA to show what they can offer to families. Since they deal with providing the community with taking care of their children, it can be very beneficial to them to make and schedule events.

Threats: Many threats the YMCA receives are the numerous schools that surround most of them. Schools also offer after-school programs, tutoring, and many other facilities they provide their students. Not only that, but a significant threat the YMCA faces is its ability to expand its business. Seeing that there are over 100 YMCAs in Virginia, it is a considerable number. However, being able to add more facilities can spread even more awareness. 

Citations:

About the Y. YMCA of South Hampton Roads. (n.d.). https://www.ymcashr.org/about-y#:~:text=Our%20mission%20is%20to%20put,a%20better%20place%20to%20live.