William’s associates were against YMCA’s activities

The YMCA has spread to 20 nations worldwide, with 2500 branches in the United States alone. Some of Sir George Williams' acquaintances were opposed to the organization's formation when he was working on it. Williams believes that the goal of the YMCA's formation is to enhance the social and religious condition of young people through Bible study, social and family prayer gatherings, and strengthening mutual coordination and collaboration among people and diverse communities.

According to him, the purpose of this organization is to improve the spiritual well-being of children. Because numerous of the organization's young members participated in physical education, some people believed that the YMCA should not be involved in providing physical education to children.

When the YMCA grew popular in England, a retired sea captain from Boston, Thomas Valentine Sullivan, saw the need to build something akin to the British YMCA for merchants and sailors. He wished to improve their cognitive talents and empower them to positively participate to the growth of their communities and society. On December 29, 1851, he established the YMCA, USA chapter in Boston.