News

YMCA News

Camp Echo Hosts Inaugural ETHS E/LEAD Cohort

McGaw YMCA’s Camp Echo recently hosted the first cohort of Evanston Township High School’s (ETHS) new Evanston/Leadership Academy (E/LEAD) program for six days at camp. E/LEAD is a four-year, cohort-based program for rising freshmen at ETHS that emphasizes leadership identity development, academic enrichment, and preparation for life beyond high school with a clear post-secondary plan. “E/LEAD is an opportunity for students to connect with leaders in their school community, broader Evanston community, and the world, and find a pathway that excites them and suits who they are and who they are becoming,” said Theresa Collins, Director of Student Academic Leadership Programs at ETHS. E/LEAD staff from Evanston Township High School at Camp Echo (from left): Tori Kienzle, Keilan Bonner, Meghan Koons, Joel Baumgartner, and Theresa Collins, Director of Student Academic Leadership Programs. Students in E/LEAD commit to the program for the duration of their time at ETHS. In addition to

SHARE:

Camp Echo Hosts Inaugural ETHS E/LEAD Cohort Read More

Registration Begins July 14 for School-Year Swim Lessons and Fall Sports

Registration begins soon for our Fall Sports programs and School-Year Swim sessions. Mark your calendars and secure your spot early — spaces fill quickly!   School-Year Swim Lessons (September 8 – May 22):  Our school-year swim lessons are open to all ages, including children, teens, and adults. Whether you’re a first-time swimmer or looking to improve your technique, our certified instructors focus on water safety, stroke development, and building confidence in a supportive environment.   McGaw Y members can register starting July 14, and community-wide registration opens July 21.   View swim lessons  Fall I Sports Session (September 8 – November 2): Whether it’s soccer, basketball, tumbling, or pickleball, our sports programs emphasize fun, fitness, and skill development for participants of all ages.   Registration for Fall 1 Session sports opens for all on July 14.  View programs 

SHARE:

Registration Begins July 14 for School-Year Swim Lessons and Fall Sports Read More

Summer Food Program at McGaw Y Offers Free Healthy Meals to Evanston Kids

  EVANSTON, IL. — As summer break begins, many children lose access to the nutritious meals they rely on during the school year. To help bridge this gap, the YMCA is stepping up by providing free summer meals to help keep children healthy and well-nourished. The McGaw YMCA in Evanston is one of many Y locations nationwide offering free meals to all youth 18 and under through the Summer Food Program. Now in its fourteenth year, the program reflects the Y’s ongoing commitment to helping kids grow, thrive, and reach their full potential. In 2024, McGaw Y served 109,182 nutritious meals and snacks to over 930 youth and families enrolled in various YMCA programs. These meals were funded by YMCA operating funds, the City of Evanston, the USDA’s Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)/Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and supplemented by grants from foundations. This year, the McGaw YMCA

SHARE:

Summer Food Program at McGaw Y Offers Free Healthy Meals to Evanston Kids Read More