The YMCA of the Lowcountry has been strengthening communities across South Carolina’s Lowcountry for more than three decades. Our story began when the Wardle Family YMCA was chartered in 1990, opening its doors in June 1996 to serve individuals and families throughout Beaufort County.
In April 2026, our impact expanded with the opening of the James Fisher Memorial Foundation YMCA in Ridgeland, bringing YMCA programs, wellness opportunities, aquatics and community resources to Jasper County. Our reach also extends into Hampton County, where we began providing free swim lessons to local second-grade students in 2024, with plans to expand YMCA programs and services in the community.
Today, the YMCA of the Lowcountry proudly serves Beaufort, Jasper and Hampton counties with a mission to strengthen our communities through programs and opportunities that help people of all ages learn, grow and thrive.
As a locally governed nonprofit organization, the YMCA welcomes people of all ages, backgrounds, incomes and abilities. Whether you’re looking for fitness and wellness, swimming and aquatics, youth programs, child care or opportunities to connect with your community, there is a place for you at the YMCA of the Lowcountry.
Programs and services incorporate the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility and the YMCA encourages and challenges its staff, members, volunteers and program participants to accept and demonstrate these values. The Beaufort-Jasper YMCA of the Lowcountry currently serves approximately 10,000 individuals annually through the programs and services provided.
