2024

Honoring Black History at the YMCA

The history of the YMCA – like the history of Evanston – is a story of incremental progress toward greater inclusion, equity, and justice. As we honor and celebrate Black history in the month of February and every day, we remain committed to our work of becoming an anti-racist, multicultural organization where everyone can be, belong and become. We are committed to learning from our past, listening to our present, and making changes that will advance racial justice, health, and healing, and break cycles of harm, for generations to come. Join us in celebrating #BlackHistoryMonth as we share inspiring stories that have shaped the Y movement on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Discover the Y’s Connection to Black History Month Carter G. Woodson, known as the “Father of Black History,” wanted the study of past Black life to have a significant impact. Learn more about the Black History Month’s roots with

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Frequent Y’er Club Challenge – February

Choose your Frequent Y’er Club challenge for February! The McGaw YMCA Frequent Y’er Club challenges and celebrates members who are committed to strengthening self and community through active participation at the Y. Keep your motivation fresh and deepen your engagement across our Y community as you progress in your fitness journey. Choose from one of four new challenge tracks each month and be proud of the new goals you will achieve! Plus, earn fun Y prizes along the way! FREE for McGaw YMCA members age 14+. Complete 1 of 4 challenges between February 1-29. Choose a track: Visit the Y 12 or more times in the calendar month. Enjoy 3 or more group fitness class formats for the first time. * Conquer the 30-day plank challenge. Set and achieve a 30-day SMART goal with a Y fitness professional. Prize: First-time Frequent Y’er 2024 finishers receive a t-shirt. All finishers receive

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McGaw YMCA Gala 2024 Celebrates Being Rooted in Community

YMCA President & CEO giving a speech

Monique Parsons, McGaw YMCA President/CEO, proudly welcomed guests at the highly anticipated return of the McGaw YMCA Gala on January 20. EVANSTON, IL. – The McGaw YMCA hosted its annual gala in the Sebring-Lewis Center, bringing together the Evanston community for a night of celebration and connection. This year’s event, held on January 20, honored the relationships that have shaped the YMCA in Evanston for over 138 years. More than 200 attendees turned out for an unforgettable evening filled with a live auction and raffle, culinary delights, and an opening performance by Evanston-based S.O.U.L. Creations. Partygoers enjoyed music by local DJ Corey Bless. During the event, Monique Parsons, McGaw YMCA President/CEO, paid tribute to the spirit of collaboration that has helped transform the Y throughout the years. “As a convener, our Y brings people together. We are where the community collides,” Parsons said. “We build strong relationships that deepen our

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