Evanston, IL – The McGaw Y is proud to support the launch of YMCA of the USA’s National Phones Down, Eyes Up™ campaign this May for National Water Safety Month, highlighting the importance of staying alert while enjoying time in and around the water. At the Y, water safety is a year-round priority. It only takes a quick glance at your phone to miss something critical. In fact, 88% of child drownings happen with at least one adult present. Drowning is fast, silent, and can happen in as little as 30 seconds. That’s why the YMCA encourages families to stay focused and designate a “Water Watcher” when children are in or around water. Water Watchers are adults whose role is to watch the water undistracted by phones, books, conversations, or alcohol. In a lakefront community like Evanston, more time by the water brings both opportunity and responsibility. Families can take the Phones Down, Eyes Up™ pledge at PhonesDownEyesUp.org to access helpful tools like phone reminder wallpapers, safety tips, and more. For even greater confidence in and […]

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),