World War 1, Europe, RILEY, Chaplaincy, YMCA, 1917

The YMCA was founded in 1844 during the Industrial Revolution in England, a time of great despair and poverty. George Williams, a drapery merchant, decided that something had to be done. He gathered together a few friends to form a society that met regularly to support each other and gain renewed strength in body, mind and spirit. The group called itself the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA).
The official opening of the YMCA association in Western Australia, based in the Eastern Goldfields was in 1902. Perth soon followed suit with its first association official formed in 1908, after receiving a donation of land on Murray Street in the city. Throughout its history YMCA Perth has held a focus on working with young people through activities such as sports, camps, arts, leadership programs and services such youth work and youth hostels. From 1914-1918, YMCA Perth provided services in a peacetime military camp and for armed services in Australia and war fronts. During the depression YMCA Perth helped in the sustenance of workers, held classes for unemployed young people and provided an employment bureau. From 1940-1945, YMCA Perth staff and volunteers help servicemen and women in war, and from 1946-1961 continue to proved service to peacetime armed services and trainees.