McGaw YMCA announces the return of its annual Day of Giving on May 7, 2026, a one-day opportunity for the Evanston community to come together and help create brighter futures with local impact. In honor of McGaw YMCA’s 140th anniversary, this year’s goal is to rally 140 donors in just 24 hours. Thanks to a generous matching gift, every donation made on May 7 will be doubled, up to $15,000, supporting essential programs that strengthen youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility across the Evanston community. “We’re excited to bring back the McGaw YMCA Day of Giving during our 140th anniversary,” said Michael Bergmann, Chair of the McGaw YMCA Board. “For 140 years, the Y has a place where our community comes together to support one another. With the generous match, every gift will go twice as far to keep our programs accessible to all.” To celebrate each act of […]

EVANSTON, IL. – Families from Evanston and surrounding areas came together on Saturday, April 25 for the McGaw YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day®, a high-energy, free event celebrating movement, wellness, and family fun. The day featured a wide range of activities designed to kick off a safe, healthy, and fun summer for kids. Attendees enjoyed bounce houses, sports skills clinics, an around-the-track dash, a 360-photo booth, music experiences, outdoor camp activities, fire pit safety demonstrations with s’mores led by Camp Echo staff, and healthy snack demonstrations featuring community partners Chicky’s Kitchen Creations and registered dietitian Julie Gyondla. Families also experienced live entertainment from DJ Johnny Price and student DJ Grey Kennedy of Bach to Rock, and a music concert by Mr. Dave, bringing energy and excitement for participants of all ages.   The event offered opportunities to connect with YMCA program staff and community partners, including Centro de Desarrollo Latino (CEDEL),