EVANSTON, IL – McGaw YMCA is proud to announce the return of its Day of Giving on May 8, 2025—a one-day opportunity for the Evanston community to come together and help create brighter futures. This year’s goal is to rally 130 donors in just 24 hours. Thanks to a generous matching gift, every donation made on May 8 will be doubled, up to $15,000—supporting essential programs. “We are thrilled to bring back the McGaw YMCA Day of Giving,” said Mark Metz, Chair of the McGaw YMCA Board of Directors. “This is a powerful opportunity for our community to come together and support the Y programs that change lives. With the support of a generous match, every gift will go twice as far.” To celebrate each act of generosity, McGaw YMCA will plant a colorful pinwheel in its Garden of Gratitude on the front lawn for every donation received, symbolizing the […]

EVANSTON, IL – The McGaw YMCA is excited to announce its upcoming Healthy Kids & Families Day event on Friday, April 25, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Families are invited to join us at this annual celebration designed to kick off the spring season with a focus on health, wellness, and family fun. This year, Healthy Kids & Families will feature a “Sportstastic” theme, with exciting carnival games and special photo and autograph opportunities with ETHS (Evanston Township High School) athletes and Special Olympic athletes. Additional activities include: Family Gym: Bounce house and active fun in the gym! Family Swim (advance sign-up required) Kids Club Stay & Play: A space for younger children to enjoy supervised playtime. Board Games & Arts & Crafts: Creative and engaging fun for the whole family. Glow-in-the-Dark Family Dance Party: Dance your way into the night. Movie Viewing: Watch Space Jam at 5:45

Summer is just around the corner, and that means it’s time for families to dive into fun and fitness at the Y. Community-wide registration is now open for Summer Sports programs and Summer Swim lessons. Whether families are looking to build confidence in the water with expert swim instructors or take advantage of the summer months to enhance athletic skills in a group sport, the McGaw YMCA offers something for everyone. These programs focus on skill-building, safety, and—most importantly—having fun! Summer Swim Lessons: From beginners to advanced swimmers, YMCA swim lessons cater to all skill levels and ages. Taught by certified instructors, these classes emphasize water safety, technique, and confidence. Spots are limited, so early registration is encouraged. REGISTER  Summer Sports: Basketball, soccer, tiny tot sports, volleyball, and more! The Y’s sports programs and clinics provide a positive and encouraging environment where kids can stay active, develop new skills, and