2026

The True Cost of Housing is Not Measured in Rent

The following essay by McGaw YMCA President and CEO Monique Parsons was published in the Evanston RoundTable on July 6, 2026. A young man in his twenties moves to Evanston to start a career. He knows no one and has little savings, but he has a chance to build a life. A father going through a divorce wants to stay close to his children but cannot afford a second home while helping support the first. A transit worker struggles to keep up with rising costs despite working full time. A man loses his job, then his health, then his savings, and eventually his home. Different stories. Different circumstances. The same challenge: finding a stable place to live. When we talk about housing, we often focus on rent prices, zoning decisions, or development proposals. Those conversations matter. But they can obscure a larger truth: the cost of housing is not measured […]

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Improving Your Y: Annual Maintenance & Amenity Closures

McGaw YMCA’s Annual Maintenance & Amenities Closures begin August 2. During this time, certain amenities at the Y will be temporarily unavailable as we complete important repairs and improvements designed to enhance your member experience and ensure the continued care of our facilities. Alternative Pool & Fitness Options at Northwestern. While the pools are closed for maintenance, members are welcome to swim at the Norris Aquatics Center. During the Fitness Center closure, members may work out at Northwestern’s Henry Crown Sports Pavilion. View Details for Access Click on the name of each location to view complete closure details. This schedule will be updated as projects progress. All completion dates are anticipated and subject to change. View as Calendar

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Reciprocity for Members During Pool & Fitness Center Closures

McGaw YMCA’s Annual Maintenance & Amenities Closures begin August 2. During this time, certain amenities at the Y will be temporarily unavailable as we complete important repairs and improvements. Thanks to the generosity of our community partner, Northwestern University, McGaw YMCA members are welcome to use the Norris Aquatics Center pool and the Henry Crown Sports Pavilion, located at 2311 Campus Drive during these closures. Pool Reciprocity While our pools are closed, members may swim at the Norris Aquatics Center. Before your visit: Request a member verification letter from McGaw Y Member Services at [email protected] or 847-475-7400 x220. Visit recreation.northwestern.edu and select Sign In to create an account and complete the required waiver. If you created an account last year, simply log in and complete this year’s waiver. Check the pool schedules on the Norris Aquatics Center website for summer hours and scheduled pool closures. Fitness Center Reciprocity While the

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