Together, we nurture brighter futures.
At the Y, we know that strengthening our community requires many resources. Each day brings new challenges, creating a greater demand for the McGaw YMCA’s programs and essential services. From ensuring that kids receive high-quality education and nutritious meals through our early childhood and afterschool programs, to providing affordable housing and teaching people how to swim and more, your contributions help make it possible for our neighbors to access the resources they need to learn, grow, and thrive.
When you give to the Y, you support critical programs and services for young people, adults and families in Evanston who need them the most. Together, we help connect people to their potential, purpose, and each other, nurturing brighter futures for all.
Your gift nurtures and builds a stronger community for generations to come.
With your help, in 2023, McGaw YMCA...

distributed $1,150,576 in financial assistance

taught 2,024 people of all ages how to swim

ensured that 1,880 families received financial support across programs

served 133,233 healthy meals to those at risk of food insecurity
Your donations to the Y help nurture the potential of young people, encourage people of all ages to cultivate healthier lives, and strengthen the roots of our community.
Youth Development
All kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve, under the guidance of caring adults who believe in their potential. We see every interaction with young people as an opportunity for learning and development—all grounded in the Y’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Healthy Living
We help people and families build and maintain healthy habits for spirit, mind, and body in their everyday lives. By helping kids, adults, families, and seniors from all walks of life improve their health and well-being, we build a stronger community.
Social Responsibility
Our doors are always open to all. We bring together people from all backgrounds, and support those who need us most. We take on the needs in our community and inspire a spirit of service in return. Our members, volunteers, supporters, and staff demonstrate the power of what we can achieve by giving back together.
Here are a few examples of how your donation can help make a difference:
$10,000
year-round STEAM programming for middle school youth
$5,000
supports weekly groceries for 35 families
$1,000
can help 25 children attend the YMCA Summer Day Camp
$500
can help 10 kids learn how to swim in our lakefront community
$250
supports training for 20 summer learning volunteers
GIVE TODAY
Every gift to McGaw YMCA, no matter the size, is important. Join us in nurturing the roots of our community. Your support helps us provide a safe, welcoming space where children grow, families bond, and communities thrive. Together, we can ensure every child has access to quality educational experiences, every family feels supported, and our community is stronger.