The building is considered to be historically significant because of its association with Paul R. Williams and because it is one of two club buildings remaining in Los Angeles that were founded by and for African Americans. The 28th Street YMCA, also sometimes referred to as the "Colored YMCA", was a milestone for the city's African American community. Many recreational facilities, including public swimming pools, were racially segregated in the 1920s, and the 28th Street YMCA provided a gymnasium, swimming pool, and 52 dormitory rooms on the upper floors.[3][4][5]