YMCA Exeter is one of the oldest YMCAs in the world, founded in 1846. Our story begins with local Exeter philanthropist John Dinham, who caught the vision of the national YMCA movement and was passionate about creating an Exeter expression. The very first meeting was held in Gandy Street and our vision remains the same as during that mid-Victorian era, to share God’s love whilst practically responding to changes in social, economical and cultural contexts.