Author name: Evangeline Semark

In Memoriam: Mark A. Dennis, Jr. 1949-2024

Retired McGaw YMCA President/CEO Rev. Mark A. Dennis, Jr. is remembered as a cherished leader, mentor, and friend to many. It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of retired McGaw YMCA President/CEO Rev. Mark Andrew Dennis, Jr., a cherished leader, mentor, and friend to many. Mark served as McGaw Y President/CEO from 2014 until his retirement in 2017. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, visionary leadership, and service to the community. His tenure at the McGaw Y was defined by his unwavering commitment to expanding community support for the YMCA. Under his leadership, the McGaw YMCA launched MetaMedia, a cutting-edge digital media and maker space for middle school youth. McGaw YMCA MetaMedia groundbreaking ceremony in 2014. Pictured from left, Mark Dennis, Chuck Lewis, youth members Mikey and Faith, Penny Sebring, Peter Lewis, and former McGaw Y Board Chair Dan Israelite.  Prior to working at the YMCA, […]

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Community Day + Camp Echo Fest: Event Recap

A child getting a face painting of a butterfly.

On Saturday, April 29, the YMCA welcomed members of the community with an afternoon of fun-filled activities for everyone including Camp Echo favorites. The McGaw YMCA hosted a Community Day on April 27 to encourage a healthy start to the summer season and celebrate Camp Echo’s 100th anniversary. Families from Evanston and surrounding areas had the chance to explore the YMCA facilities for free and engage in family-friendly activities, including group fitness demo classes, Family Fun Gym Time, family swim sessions, and more. As part of the festivities, attendees participated in Echo Fest to celebrate Camp Echo’s 100th anniversary. Activities included a traditional Family Camp Carnival in the gym, with classic attractions like games, duck races, and face painting. In the Chinnock Lounge, attendees honored Camp Echo’s legacy with History & Crafts sessions led by Katie Tucker Trippi, a retired McGaw YMCA staffer and longtime Camp Echo alumna. The year-long

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Register Now for Summer Programs and Swim Lessons

Looking for a splash of fun and fitness this summer? Registration is now open for summer swim lessons and indoor summer sports programs designed to keep you and your family active and engaged. Summer Sports Session (June 1 – August 11): The Y offers an action-packed lineup of indoor sports programs in our Summer Session. Whether your little one is dribbling on the basketball court or dancing to the beat, there’s something for everyone. Choose from favorites like Parent/Child Sports of All Sorts, Parent/Child basketball, Tiny Tot options, and youth programs including basketball, volleyball, indoor soccer, and dance. Choose the full 9-week session or register for a shorter 5-week mini session for a burst of summer fun! Register for Summer Sports Summer Swim Lessons (June 8 – August 8): The Y’s swim lessons are designed to provide expert instruction tailored to all ages and skill levels. With classes ranging from parent-child

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