For more than 145 years, YMCA and YWCA in Denmark have been building strong communities where young people can grow, connect, and make a difference. As part of the global YMCA and YWCA movements, we are rooted in a Christian foundation that inspires us to create inclusive spaces where faith, social engagement, and personal development go hand in hand.
Since our founding in 1873, we have grown into a dynamic network that extends beyond our core organization. Today, eight independent organizations share our heritage, each with its own unique mission:
YMCA Scouts (KFUM-spejderne) – A scouting movement that empowers young people through outdoor adventures, leadership training, and personal growth.
YWCA Girl Scouts (KFUK-spejderne) – A values-based movement for girls and young women focused on community, nature, leadership, and personal development.
YWCA Social Work (KFUK’s sociale arbejde) – A social initiative supporting vulnerable children, youth, and families across Denmark.
YMCA Social Work (KFUM’s sociale arbejde) - A diaconal movement, committed to supporting vulnerable people and creating pathways to inclusion and dignity.
Y’s Men’s Clubs – A global service movement rooted in YMCA values, dedicated to supporting youth programs and community development.
YMCA Soldiers' Mission (KFUM’s Soldatermission) – A support network for Danish military personnel, offering social and spiritual care.
YMCA Sports Association (KFUMs idrætsforbund) - A youth-focused movement, dedicated to building healthy sports communities and developing young leaders.
Though diverse in focus, we are united by a common spirit: a commitment to empowering young people and fostering meaningful communities driven by volunteer engagement.
Our strength lies in our people—dedicated volunteers, passionate leaders, and thousands of young individuals who bring life to our activities. Whether it’s through local clubs, camps, choirs, social projects, or global initiatives, we continue to evolve while staying true to our core values of fellowship, service, and faith. Welcome to our YMCA and YWCA family!
Joint movement
For more than a century, YMCA and YWCA Denmark have been dedicated to building communities where young people can grow, connect, and create change. Originally established as separate organizations—one for young men and one for young women—we shared the same vision, values, and commitment to youth empowerment. Over time, it became clear that by coming together as one movement, we could make an even greater impact. Our unification was a natural evolution. As society changed, so did we—recognizing that young people thrive in inclusive spaces where everyone is welcome, regardless of gender. By merging, we strengthened our foundation, expanded our reach, and ensured that we could continue offering meaningful activities, strong communities, and life-changing experiences for generations to come.
Today, YMCA-YWCA Denmark is a dynamic and forward-thinking movement, deeply rooted in faith, fellowship, and social responsibility. As part of a global network, we remain committed to empowering young people and working toward a more just and inclusive world.
