Building Stronger Communities Since 1970
Founded in 1970, YMCA Chiang Mai develops people of all ages, faiths, and backgrounds in body, mind, and spirit — serving youth, families, and communities across Northern Thailand.
Our Vision
A learning organization that promotes sustainable development of people, society, and the environment.
We believe lasting change grows when people, society, and the environment develop together.
Our Mission
We pursue our mission through four commitments:
- 1
Support people of all genders, ages, races, and religions toward a meaningful life guided by their own faith — fostering peace, fellowship, and a just society.
- 2
Build responsibility toward family and society and growth in spirit, mind, and body, through alternative education, vocational skills, environmental education, and volunteer opportunities.
- 3
Encourage people to become good leaders, involve them in the development process, and help them earn a sufficient, sustainable living.
- 4
Focus on self-reliance and social enterprise.
Our Core Values
These values guide everything we do at YMCA Chiang Mai
Youth Development
Nurturing the potential of every child and teen through education, skill-building, and character development.
Healthy Living
Promoting physical and mental wellness for individuals and families through fitness and wellness programs.
Social Responsibility
Building stronger communities through volunteer work, civic engagement, and environmental stewardship.
Our History
Global Beginnings
The YMCA movement began in London in 1844, founded by George Williams, who urged friends to spend their free time after work exchanging knowledge and serving the community rather than on the idle pursuits of the day. The idea spread worldwide and today reaches more than 100 countries, with a World Alliance based in Geneva.
Coming to Thailand
The movement reached Thailand in the reign of King Rama V through Ajarn Boontuan Boonyit, the first Thai member of the YMCA in the United States, who shared its ideas with his students and friends. During the reign of King Rama VII it became the YMCA of Bangkok, under the royal patronage of Prince Mahidol of Songkla.
Chiang Mai YMCA Founded
On 10 January 1970, YMCA Chiang Mai was founded to develop body, mind, and spirit for people of every age, gender, and faith. Led by founders including Dr. Boonperm Singhanetra and supported by Bangkok YMCA and Canadian volunteers Gordon and Jane Ball, it began in a small shophouse near the Night Bazaar, teaching English, music, and vocational skills.
A Royal Opening
As membership grew, the association moved from Charoenprathet Road — expanding its rural work in Sankamphaeng — to its present home in Santitam, on land donated by Dr. Boonperm and Khun Khuankham Singhanetra. The new four-story center was officially opened on 23 January 1977 in a ceremony graced by the Crown Prince on behalf of His Majesty the King.
The International Hotel
YMCA Chiang Mai opened The International Chiang Mai Hotel — a six-story, 88-room property with meeting rooms and restaurants — whose income helps sustain the association's community work. The original building became a language school and youth activity center.
Sustainable Development
Guided by its founders' vision of sustainable development and inspired by His Majesty the King's principles, YMCA Chiang Mai continues to serve through its five centers across Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Lamphun.
What We Do
YMCA Chiang Mai serves the community through six areas of work.
Education
Language courses — English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Thai for foreigners — plus core math, science, and Thai for primary students.
Vocational Skills
Training that builds practical skills for further study and employment.
Hospitality & Services
The International Chiang Mai Hotel and International House Chiang Rai offer comfortable, affordable stays, with dining at the Sawasdee and Salongkham restaurants.
Child & Youth Development
Helping children and youth grow in body, mind, and spirit through early-childhood care, day care, art, swimming, taekwondo, and more.
International Relations
Building friendships with partner YMCAs across Asia, Europe, and the Americas through youth leadership, environmental, and cultural-exchange camps.
Social Development
Strengthening communities and supporting the underprivileged, together with affiliated foundations and clubs across Northern Thailand.