Monique Parsons, McGaw YMCA President/CEO, proudly welcomed guests at the highly anticipated return of the McGaw YMCA Gala on January 20.
EVANSTON, IL. – The McGaw YMCA hosted its annual gala in the Sebring-Lewis Center, bringing together the Evanston community for a night of celebration and connection.
This year's event, held on January 20, honored the relationships that have shaped the YMCA in Evanston for over 138 years. More than 200 attendees turned out for an unforgettable evening filled with a live auction and raffle, culinary delights, and an opening performance by Evanston-based S.O.U.L. Creations. Partygoers enjoyed music by local DJ Corey Bless.
During the event, Monique Parsons, McGaw YMCA President/CEO, paid tribute to the spirit of collaboration that has helped transform the Y throughout the years.
“As a convener, our Y brings people together. We are where the community collides,” Parsons said. “We build strong relationships that deepen our roots in Evanston and keep us connected to what truly matters. Whether that’s offering affordable housing, providing meals to families, reshaping community health, offering first jobs to youth, or transforming the summer camp experience, our impact is profound,” she added.
A video was presented to demonstrate the significant impact of the collaborations between the McGaw YMCA and various individuals and organizations.
The gala raised over $265,000 in support of the McGaw YMCA’s mission to cultivate the whole person, strengthen community, and provide equitable access to transformational experiences in areas like affordable housing, education, and community health and well-being.
Thank you to the attendees, auction and raffle item donors, and event sponsors whose generosity helped make the event possible. Special recognition is given to the following lead sponsors: Ann and Russ Covode, Lewis-Sebring Family Foundation, McGaw YMCA Board of Directors, Northwestern University and the Tom F. and Susan P. Moran Family Foundation.
View the gala webpage for a full list of sponsors.
Interested in supporting the McGaw YMCA? Consider making a one-time or recurring donation at mcgawymca.org/donate.