The YMCA of Russia was founded in St. Petersburg. Under the auspices of the Empress Alexandra, Mr James Stocks of the USA was able to unite all those who were seriously interested in the growth of YMCA in Russia. The YMCA of Russia unites 12 local public organizations which conduct creative, sports, health, leadership and volunteer programs, youth camps and international youth exchange projects in 9 regions of Russia: Moscow, Leningrad, Yaroslavl, Ivanovo, Novosibirsk, Sverdlovsk, Kaliningrad regions, the Altai Territory and the Kola Peninsula.