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A branch of the YMCA of the USA, The Jerusalem International YMCA, with its elegant arches, domes and 152-foot observation tower, is a city landmark acknowledged as a center of cultural, athletic, social and intellectual life in Jerusalem fostering harmony and building the spirit, mind and body. Founded in 1878, its first president was George Williams, who had established the first YMCA in 1844 in London. On April 18, 1933, the present home of the Jerusalem YMCA was dedicated by British General Edmund Lord Allenby. The neo-Byzantine-style complex was designed by Arthur Loomis Harmon, architect of the Empire State Building. It is a sermon in stone, rich in symbolism representing the three monotheistic faiths. The Jerusalem International YMCA actively strives to foster interfaith, interracial and intergroup understanding and is committed to these goals in its day-to-day programs. The building houses a fitness center and swimming pool, Jewish-Arab kindergarten, 600-seat auditorium, library, restaurant, hotel and conference center. Almost a half-million people visit the YMCA annually. For its efforts in promoting peace, unity and the dignity of humankind, the Jerusalem International YMCA was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993. |
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