News

YMCA News

Member Spotlight: JoAnn

Member Spotlight, News /
JoAnn is standing on the indoor track, leaning against a white brick wall, and wearing a blue v-neck top.

Member Spotlight: Meet JoAnn! For the past 34 years, she has been an active member of the McGaw YMCA. What started as a place to work out and stay healthy has grown into a true community connection. JoAnn is often walking the track, participating in classes like Balance & Fall Prevention, or enjoying weekly Mahjong games. She’s also sent three grandchildren to Camp Echo, watching them grow and gain confidence through their summer adventures. “It’s been heartening,” she said, reflecting on the impact Camp Echo has had on her family. Thank you, JoAnn, for sharing your journey with us and being a part of our Y community!

SHARE:

Member Spotlight: JoAnn Read More

Staff Spotlight: Chantel

News, Staff Spotlight /
Chantel is wearing a purple McGaw YMCA Children's Center t-shirt and light colored shorts. She is standing on the front staircase of the Children's Center, with her hands on the railing while smiling.

Staff Spotlight: Meet Chantel, one of our amazing Lead Toddler Teachers at the McGaw YMCA Children’s Center! Chantel has been with the Y for 5.5 years, bringing heart, dedication, and a deep love for early childhood education to everything she does. From floater to Pre-K and Infant Teacher, Chantel’s journey began when her son took swim lessons at the Y and we’re so glad she’s now leading in one of our toddler rooms! “I believe that if you can inspire a child when they are young and teach with care and compassion, they will always remember how I made them feel.” Fun fact: Chantel has received the African American Educator Award from the Second Baptist Church and the Healthy Living Award from McGaw YMCA. When she’s not in the classroom, you might catch her at a group fitness class! Be sure to say “hi” when you see her around!

SHARE:

Staff Spotlight: Chantel Read More

Improving Your Y: Annual Maintenance & Amenity Closures

News /

Last Updated: 8/25/2025 To improve the member experience and ensure the ongoing care of our facilities, certain amenities at the Y will be temporarily unavailable during the dates listed below. We appreciate your understanding during this time and invite you to explore and enjoy some of our other offerings while your favorite spaces are being refreshed. GYM, SWIM, & FITNESS WINGS Pools (4-Lane & 6-Lane): Closed August 9 – September 1* anticipated Pools drained and regrouted Deep cleaning and stainless steel repairs Wall and tilework touch ups Ladder and stair repairs Deep cleaning of pool decks POOL RECIPROCITY: During this time, McGaw Y members will have the option to swim at several partner facilities. Click here for details. Please note: Our typical reciprocity with the Northwestern University pool will not be available this year, as their pool is closed from July 31 to September 7. Additional reciprocity options may be

SHARE:

Improving Your Y: Annual Maintenance & Amenity Closures Read More