The Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA), founded in 1844, is an international network of non-sectarian organisations that provide athletic, recreational, cultural and educational services to their members. The YMCA today has grown into an international organisation, operating in over 100 countries worldwide. The Falkirk Branch was founded in 1854. Minutes taken of the first meeting state that the objective of the Association is, "the Religious, and moral improvement of the young men of Falkirk." In Scotland, YMCA Scotland is the collective body of all YMCA local associations. The work of the YMCA is carried out through local YMCA's and national programmes.