The history of the YMCA – like the history of the United States – is a story of incremental progress toward being a place for all. As we celebrate Black History Month, we are honoring the stories of Black leaders who helped move the YMCA – and America – forward, as well as recognizing that history continues to be created each and every day. Anthony Bowen A former enslaved man and the first Black American to become a clerk in the U.S. Patent Office, Anthony Bowen founded the first YMCA for the Black community in Washington, D.C., in 1853, eight years before the Civil War. Additional Black Ys and college chapters were established in the following decades, with membership reaching 28,000 nationwide by the mid-1920s. William Hunton The son a freed enslaved person from Canada, William Hunton began his Y work in 1888 as the first employed YMCA secretary at […]

Dear McGaw YMCA community, We stand by our values. At McGaw YMCA, we are more than just a Y—we are a community built on the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. We remain steadfast in our vision of being a place FOR ALL, where every person matters. McGaw YMCA will continue to be a safe and welcoming space for our members, staff, residents, and guests, regardless of immigration status. We take seriously our responsibility to ensure everyone has access to the resources, information, and support they need to grow, work, learn, and thrive in a secure environment. Thank you for joining us in our commitment to making McGaw a place where everyone feels safe and valued. Together, Monique Parsons President/CEO McGaw YMCA

Don’t Miss McGaw YMCA’s Community Day and Family Fun Day.  Start the new year at McGaw YMCA with two exciting community events. Visit the Y for Community Day on Sunday, January 12, and Family Fun Day on Monday, January 20—both are free and open to all. These events are the perfect opportunity to explore the Y’s programs, facilities, and welcoming community. Community Day – January 12, 2025  Discover all that McGaw YMCA has to offer on Community Day! Guests can explore the Y through facility tours, group fitness demo classes such as Zumba and Cardio Kickboxing and learn about membership benefits and programs for all ages. Families are invited to sign up for special activities, including Family Swim (advance sign-up required), Family Gym games with bounce houses, and demo classes for a variety of youth dance classes and cheer/poms. Whether you want to jumpstart a fitness routine, explore youth programs,