EVANSTON, IL. — Summer break is here, and for many children, it means losing access to the nutritious meals they rely on during the school year. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), while over 30 million kids benefit from free or reduced-cost meals through the National School Lunch Program, only 3 in 10 eligible kids have access to free, healthy meals and snacks during summer break. This leaves many children without adequate nutrition during the summer months. The YMCA is addressing this critical need by providing free summer meals to help keep children healthy and well-nourished. Y sites across the country, including McGaw YMCA, along with other partnering organizations, will offer free meals through the Summer Food Program to any youth 18 and under. This summer marks the program’s thirteenth year, highlighting the Y’s ongoing commitment to helping kids achieve their full potential. In 2023, the McGaw YMCA […]

McGaw Y employee Taishiya Nix was selected to participate in the YMCA of the USA’s Multicultural Executive Development Institute (MEDI). EVANSTON, IL. – McGaw YMCA proudly announces that Taishiya Nix has been selected to participate in the YMCA of the USA’s Multicultural Executive Development Institute (MEDI). This esteemed national program is dedicated to developing and advancing staff of color into leadership roles throughout the YMCA movement. Taishiya Nix (she/her), Director of Talent Engagement, is the first McGaw YMCA employee to join MEDI as a mentee. She, along with other members of the cohort, kicked off their journey with a four-day Institute hosted by the YMCA of Honolulu on O’ahu. The Insitute featured executive coaching, mock interviews, and solutions-based research projects with and for members of the Honolulu community, offering participants an immersive experience in Pacific Island culture and valuable leadership training. Reflecting on her selection, Taishiya said that participating in

Retired McGaw YMCA President/CEO Rev. Mark A. Dennis, Jr. is remembered as a cherished leader, mentor, and friend to many. It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of retired McGaw YMCA President/CEO Rev. Mark Andrew Dennis, Jr., a cherished leader, mentor, and friend to many. Mark served as McGaw Y President/CEO from 2014 until his retirement in 2017. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, visionary leadership, and service to the community. His tenure at the McGaw Y was defined by his unwavering commitment to expanding community support for the YMCA. Under his leadership, the McGaw YMCA launched MetaMedia, a cutting-edge digital media and maker space for middle school youth. McGaw YMCA MetaMedia groundbreaking ceremony in 2014. Pictured from left, Mark Dennis, Chuck Lewis, youth members Mikey and Faith, Penny Sebring, Peter Lewis, and former McGaw Y Board Chair Dan Israelite.  Prior to working at the YMCA,