CHICAGO — YMCA of the USA has named Edelman as its public relations agency of record following a competitive review.

Edelman is responsible for driving awareness of the role the 175-year-old nonprofit plays in supporting communities through a far-reaching range of programs and services for individuals of all ages. The agency will be developing and executing an integrated PR and thought leadership plan for the US branch of the worldwide organization.

Edelman’s US brand practice team will handle the account.

Y-USA, which has more than 2,600 facilities across the country, has worked with a number of agencies, including Catalyst PR. Last year, the organization named VMLY&R as its advertising and digital transformation AOR.

Most commonly known for its offerings for its youth and health & wellness programs, YMCAs have supported communities with various Covid response programs throughout the pandemic.

“As the national resource office for the 2,600 YMCAs across the country, Y-USA is committed to amplifying the powerful impact the Y has on the 10,000 communities we serve. We are thrilled to have Edelman as our partner as we work together to achieve this goal,” said chief marketing and communications officer Valerie Barker Waller.

“As a global leader in public relations and communications, Edelman brings a range of expertise to bear — from brand building to thought leadership from its groundbreaking Trust Barometer work —  to help us elevate the role the Y plays in empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across communities.”