At McGaw YMCA, the pool is more than a place to swim; it’s a place to grow. Each year, hundreds of children and adults in Evanston’s lakefront community gain confidence and connection through the Y’s swim lessons program, learning skills that last a lifetime. The Y’s approach to swim instruction goes beyond technique. Certified instructors focus on helping participants develop skills in the water while building trust. Whether it’s a child learning to float for the first time or an adult taking a courageous first stroke, every lesson is a step toward greater safety and self-assurance. Families value the supportive atmosphere, where progress is personal and every milestone matters. For youth, swim lessons are also an important foundation for experiences like overnight summer camp. Participants gain lifelong water safety habits, essential for anyone who spends time near pools, lakes, or oceans. Whether you’re just starting out or refining your skills, […]

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