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Member Spotlight: Richard

Richard is standing on the pool deck and smiling. He's wearing a black polo and khaki shorts with the MYST scoreboard in the background.

Member Spotlight: It’s time for another McGaw Y Member Spotlight! Meet Richard, one of our incredible longtime members who has been coming to the Y since 1957! His favorite activities include running, squash, yoga, and swimming. He first joined the Y as a boys club member in high school, where he loved Friday night dances. Years later, his son swam on the McGaw YMCA Swim Team from age 5 to 18, and he spent countless hours at practices and meets! Through these experiences, he made wonderful friends and connections with Y staff. Now, you can still find him swimming six days a week! We’re so grateful to have members like this who make the Y community so special!

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Member Spotlight: Brenda

Brenda is standing in front of the McGaw YMCA with sunglasses, black pants, and a long-sleeve YMCA t-shirt on.

Member Spotlight: Meet Brenda! She’s been a member of the McGaw YMCA for the last year or so and has been loving our Fitness Challenges, trying new things and staying motivated every step of the way! She enjoys the Y because it’s a warm, supportive community where people can reach their fitness goals. “All of my instructors have been amazing and very encouraging. The Y has made a difference in my fitness and health journey,” Brenda shares. Fun fact: Her kids and extended family have been attending Camp Echo for over 20 years, inspiring her to join the Y, too! Thanks for being such a valued part of our Y family, Brenda!

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Staff Spotlight: Liette

Liette is wearing a blue short sleeved Y staff shirt while holding a pickleball paddle in her hand.

Staff Spotlight: Meet Liette, a Pickleball Ambassador at McGaw YMCA! Liette sets up the courts, welcomes players, and teaches beginners. As a natural connector, she ensures everyone feels included and has fun on the court. A longtime member, Liette’s family has deep roots at the Y. After losing her husband during the pandemic, she found healing through a Y pickleball clinic. “Simply said, pickleball at our McGaw Y saved my life.” Fun fact: Liette volunteers as a River Ranger on Chicago’s Wild Mile—picking up trash while kayaking along the river! Whether you catch her in the Sebring-Lewis Center or at a group fitness class, be sure to say hi!

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