Protecting the Integrity of Our Natural World:

An important part of our mission is “protecting the integrity of our natural world.”

In the late 1960’s, the University YMCA joined a growing number of pioneers in environmental sustainability. Early victories were won by Students for Environmental Concerns, one of the oldest Y student programs, including stopping a dam that would have flooded most of Allerton Park.

In over forty years, the Y has become a hub for environmental initiatives on campus and in our communities. Five student programs (Students for Environmental Concerns, Red Bison, Campus Vegetarian Society, Engineers Without Borders, and the Green Observer) collectively have had a tremendous impact.