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Miles that Matter: A Cross-Country Bike Ride to Support YMCA Men’s Residence

Miles that Matter, News /

Mark Metz and Noreen Edwards are riding 4,100 Miles to build support for the McGaw YMCA’s Men’s Residence housing program and upcoming renovation project. Evanston, IL — This summer, four wheels will carry a mission across the country. From August 24 through mid-November 2025, McGaw YMCA Board Chair Mark Metz and his wife, Noreen Edwards, will embark on a 4,100-mile self-supported ride along the TransAmerica Trail from the Pacific to the Atlantic on their recumbent bicycles. Their purpose? To raise awareness and vital funds for the McGaw YMCA Men’s Residence, one of the last remaining YMCA Single Room Occupancy (SRO) housing programs in the United States. For more than a century, the Men’s Residence has been a beacon of hope, offering safe, affordable housing to men in Evanston, Illinois. At a time when affordable housing is becoming increasingly scarce, Metz and Edwards are taking bold action to help preserve and

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McGaw YMCA Celebrates Culmination of Summer Learning Programs

News, Programs /

McGaw YMCA’s free, six-week Summer Learning Programs, offered in partnership with Evanston/Skokie District 65, provided K–8 students with full day experiences centered on academic support, enrichment, and personal growth, along with plenty of hands-on activities, fun, and field trips. K–5 students in SLP (Summer Learning Program) strengthened their literacy and math skills through hands-on activities, while middle schoolers in the MetaMedia Summer Experience (MSX) explored STEAM concepts through a culturally grounded, intergenerational curriculum. Both programs recently concluded with inspiring culmination events that brought together youth, families, and program staff to celebrate a summer of learning and growth. SLP wrapped up with a festive family celebration featuring food, games, and fun. It was a great way to highlight the creativity and progress students made throughout the summer. MSX concluded with the Storytelling Festival, a showcase of exploration, identity, and creativity. This powerful event highlighted the collaborative work of middle schoolers, emerging

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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!

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