YMCA Relief Efforts
Leaders among the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) recognized the strife caused by the First World War almost from its outset. While the YMCA initially conducted relief efforts for Allied prisoners of war, the United States’ section of the organization offered its services specifically to support and boost American troops’ morale in the war. Along with numerous partner organizations, the YMCA operated recreation facilities, canteens, post exchanges, and religious facilities for over one million American military personnel around the world.
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No part of the war was considered too dangerous to receive aid. In addition to their work with prisoners of war and their facilities in safe areas, YMCA personnel established posts in active battle zones to provide aid to Allied troops. Six men and two women working for the organization were killed in battle, and numerous personnel were given prestigious awards by the Allies for their bravery and charity.
Dugout-style YMCA outpost in northern France or Belgium.
Image Credit: Kautz Family YMCA Archives, University of Minnesota.
The YMCA and its partners played a crucial role in post-war recovery. In addition to their wartime efforts, the organization raised a sum equivalent to $4.3 billion USD for relief efforts.
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Services provided to American troops today, such as USO entertainment productions, can find their foundation in the work performed by the YMCA. Both the Montgomery and Post-9/11 GI Bills can trace their roots back to YMCA scholarships provided to over 80,000 veterans.
Women YMCA volunteers with camp dogs in France.
Image credit: Kautz Family YMCA Archives, University of Minnesota.