Story: Emmanuel S. King, Jr.

The Liberia YMCA has commenced a month-long series of activities marking its 145th anniversary as a national movement and youth institution dedicated to serving young people and communities across Liberia.

The anniversary observance opened Monday, August 10, 2026, with a colorful parade from the National Headquarters of the Liberia YMCA in Monrovia to the Capitol Building, bringing together young people, members, staff, supporters, and other stakeholders.

Liberia YMCA CEO (with microphone) and staff at the Capitol building with Montserrado County District 8 Representative, Hon. Prince Toles (second from left) during a petitioning program

The parade was followed by a cultural performance by the YMCA Culture Dance Troop, speeches, and the presentation of a formal petition by Liberian young people to the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Claims and Petitions, Representative Prince Toles of District #8, Montserrado County.

The youth petition formed an important part of the opening activities, providing young people an opportunity to place their concerns and aspirations before a representative of the national legislature.

Following the presentation of the petition, an official anniversary program was held at the National Headquarters of the Liberia YMCA, where speakers reflected on the institution’s long history of service and its continuing role in youth development and community empowerment.

Mrs. Vonyee N. Kolison: “For 145 years, the YMCA of Liberia has remained committed to strengthening young people, empowering communities, promoting healthy living.

Delivering remarks at the occasion, National General Secretary of the Liberia YMCA, Mrs. Vonyee N. Kolison, described the 145th anniversary as a remarkable milestone in the organization’s history.

Mrs. Kolison said the YMCA of Liberia proudly celebrates 145 years of service, leadership, youth development, community empowerment, and positive transformation.

“For 145 years, the YMCA of Liberia has remained committed to strengthening young people, empowering communities, promoting healthy living, building character, and creating opportunities for all,” she said.

She emphasized that the organization’s mission has continued from generation to generation, inspiring lives and contributing to the development of a stronger and more inclusive Liberia.

The anniversary celebration also provides an opportunity for the YMCA to honor the pioneers, volunteers, staff, partners, members, and supporters whose contributions have helped shape the YMCA Liberia story over the past 145 years.

                      Children celebrating the YMCA 145 Anniversary at the Capitol Building in Monrovia

As part of the month-long observance, the Montserrado YMCA, in collaboration with the Liberia YMCA National Secretariat, has lined up a number of activities designed to engage young people and communities while highlighting the organization’s continuing mission.

Among the ongoing activities is a vacation basketball tournament being held at the YMCA Gymnasium for students participating in the month-long vacation program organized by the Montserrado YMCA.

The anniversary activities are intended not only to celebrate the YMCA’s historic achievement but also to reaffirm its commitment to youth empowerment, leadership development, healthy living, community service, and national development.

After 145 years, the YMCA of Liberia continues to look toward the future while honoring the generations whose service and commitment have sustained the organization.

The anniversary theme is captured in the organization’s reflection on its journey:

145 years of impact.
145 years of service.
145 years of empowering lives.
And the journey continues.

As the month-long celebration continues, the Liberia YMCA is inviting its members, partners, young people, communities, and supporters to join in commemorating 145 years of service and in renewing the collective commitment to building stronger communities, empowering young people, and creating a brighter future