“…the mission remains the same. The Y is absolutely not dropping its emphasis on Christian values.”

A more vibrant, colorful logo that comes in blue, green, orange, red or purple has replaced the familiar red-and-black YMCA logo that’s been around for 43 years. In addition to the new color scheme, the organization will simply be called “the Y.”

One of the nation’s most iconic nonprofit organizations, founded 166 years ago as the Young Men’s Christian Association, is undergoing a major rebranding, adopting as its name the nickname everyone has used for generations.

The new logo and name change were unveiled Monday.

Louie Warren, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Omaha, said the rebranding efforts started two years ago with national market research. The goal is to make the organization’s mission clearer.

“I think it’s going to better reflect the vibrancy of the organization and the diversity of the communities we serve,” Warren said.

Though the YMCA will be called by its nickname, the logo still includes the letters YMCA. Warren said the mission remains the same. The Y is “absolutely not” dropping its emphasis on Christian values, he said.

“Christian principles have always been a part of our strong heritage, and they will continue to be a very relevant part in the future,” Warren said.

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