HI-Y club is the general name for special teenage and youth clubs sponsored by the Y (formerly the Young Men’s Christian Association, or YMCA). The clubs try to help young people develop their highest mental, physical, social, and spiritual potentials.
Boys of high school age may join HI-Y clubs, and girls of high school age may join TRI-HI-Y. Many Y’s sponsor CO-ED HI-Y clubs for teenagers. Other clubs include Jr. HI-Y, for junior high boys; Jr. TRI-HI-Y, for junior high girls; Gra-Y, for grade school boys; and Gra-TRI-Y, for grade school girls.
The HI-Y movement began in 1889. The various clubs seek to promote community service, personal growth, and the development of leadership skills. Each club determines its own activities and goals under the guidance of an adult adviser. HI-Y activities include recreational programs, service projects, and study and action programs on social problems and issues. The Y has national offices in Chicago.
