MISSION: The CYO is committed to providing a ministry of information that helps bring youth to their full human potential. The CYO provides opportunities for young people to develop strong moral character, self-esteem and leadership qualities through activities of a social, educational, recreational and athletic nature.

The Catholic Youth Organization was established by Bishop Joseph E. Ritter in 1939. The first official activity of the CYO was a citywide spring dance in the Cathedral High School gymnasium with about 1000 youth in attendance, representing every parish in the city. The first athletic leagues organized were baseball and tennis with steps taken in the early days of CYO to organize the drama contest and other activities.

Almost from the beginning, the CYO was energetically moved forward with the enthusiastic help of young priests in the parishes. The Catholic Church, of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis has always taken great interest in the activities of young people. Realizing that the Catholic faith must influence young people in the their development and education, the Church has made every effort to provide wholesome activities that are of interest to youth.

These activities are spiritual, cultural, social, athletic and educational in nature.

The CYO organizes athletic competition in 14 different sports for boys and girls, fourth grade through high school. The CYO also conducts an extensive summer residential camping program and year-round outdoor education classes at Camp Rancho Framasa in Brown County. A science fair, music contest, honors Music Recital and chess competition are also on the annual activities calendar.