We are Committed to Democracy.
The University YMCA has a legacy of preparing individuals to be informed and engaged citizens. We believe individuals with differing perspectives on potentially divisive issues can engage in respectful dialogue and identify shared goals, fostering positive change and equipping them to collaboratively address complex challenges beyond the Association.
From leading voter registration and get-out-the-vote efforts to programs like our spring 2024 learning community on the Certainty Trap and Democracy, we provide opportunities for individuals to play a more active and constructive role in democratic processes and spaces. We emphasize programming, such as our Friday Forum series, that affords individuals the chance to listen to one another and to engage in respectful dialogue about potentially divisive issues.
Fund Description
Established in 2024, this permanently endowed fund, in honor of Walt McMahon, is designated to support the University YMCA's democracy and citizenship programming.
Income from the fund will supplement salary for program staff, provide honorariums for speakers, resources for workshops and travel, and flexibility to meet the needs of the moment as societal issues present themselves and opportunities arise.
Our Vision
We seek to enable the University YMCA to support and encourage all persons in our campus and community to be informed, empowered and engaged contributors to a thriving, inclusive democracy. We strive to offer nonpartisan opportunities that attract anyone interested to foster and join in dialogue and collective action that strengthens our democratic norms and institutions at all levels.
Walt McMahon
Since 1957, Walt McMahon has been an active member and supporter of the University YMCA. Over those years, Walt has led strategic planning efforts, supported capital campaigns at the leadership level, and extended assistance to current and former staff, board members, and friends of the University YMCA in a myriad of ways. He has served in leadership roles for the Association on the Board of Governors, and as a member of the Board of Trustees since 2014. Over his decades of involvement, Walt has championed the Association’s commitment to strengthening civil society through programming and initiatives that engage students and community members.
Walt called upon the University YMCA to establish a permanent focus on such democracy and citizenship work, and has provided generous gifts to help support current activities and spur new ideas. The University YMCA is extraordinarily grateful for Walt’s dedication to the organization, its mission, and its history of encouraging its members to seek lasting change through the power of this Association. In recognition of Walt’s exceptional service and dedicated membership, the Board of Governors established the McMahon Democracy Innovation Fund that will be used to encourage constructive citizenship and democratic engagement by all people.
Support the Fund
You can make a gift to to the McMahon Fund. We'll use your support to strengthen democracy and help everyone be more engaged and better informed.
Did You Know?
The first $20 of your gift each year makes you a Dues Paying Member of the University YMCA. This is fully tax deductible and allows you to vote for or serve on the Board of Governors.
Other Resources and Opportunities
Become a Student Member!Bailey Scholarship ProgramEducation for All ScholarshipLeadership AwardsFood Assistance & Other Resources