Creating Brighter Futures: 140 years of lighting the way
For more than 140 years, McGaw YMCA has been shaping the future by providing resources, opportunities, and support for children, families, and individuals in Evanston. 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, creating brighter futures for all.
Your gift helps transform lives and strengthens communities.
With your help, in 2025, McGaw YMCA...
welcomed 165 men to affordable housing in our Men’s Residence
taught 1,200 people of all ages how to swim
ensured that 890 youth participated in our early childhood and K-8 programs
served 170,000 healthy meals to those at risk of food insecurity
Your donations to the Y help create brighter futures for young people, encourage people of all ages to cultivate healthier lives, and strengthen 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:
$156
covers one 8-week session of swim lessons, teaching water safety skills
$160
supports a season of youth sports, building confidence and teamwork
$430
gives a child one week of Summer Day Camp with outdoor fun and learning
$450
provides a child with one month of afterschool programming
$1,500
sends a child to Camp Echo for one week of friendship, growth, and adventure
GIVE TODAY
Every gift to McGaw YMCA, no matter the size, is important. Join us in creating brighter futures. 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.
Consider support that lasts all year long. Monthly giving is one of the most powerful ways to create lasting impact. A recurring donation ensures our Y can provide consistent support and plan for the future. Even a small monthly contribution can lead to meaningful change in the lives of those we serve.