Mayor Daniel Biss (left) presented the YMCA Day in Evanston Proclamation to McGaw YMCA President/CEO Monique Parsons and Chief of Staff and Strategy Jesse Chatz.

EVANSTON, IL. – At the October 27 City Council meeting, Mayor Daniel Biss proclaimed November 17, 2025, as YMCA Day in Evanston, recognizing the YMCA’s 140-year legacy of promoting the health, growth, and well-being of the community.

Founded on November 17, 1885, the Evanston YMCA—now known as the McGaw YMCA—has served generations of Evanstonians through mission-driven programs that nurture spirit, mind, and body. As part of the larger YMCA of the USA movement, which celebrates its 175th anniversary in 2026, McGaw YMCA has carried forward the national mission while evolving to meet the unique needs of the Evanston community for the past 140 years.

From its early days at Jennings Hall on Davis Street to its current home at 1000 Grove Street, the YMCA has stood as one of Evanston’s longest-running nonprofits dedicated to strengthening community. For 140 years, the Y has provided programs that enrich lives, including affordable housing for men, child care, sports and swim lessons, summer camps, social clubs, and opportunities for civic engagement.

Today, McGaw YMCA remains a central hub for community connection, offering programs that help people of all ages thrive—from early learning at the Children’s Center to supportive housing in the Men’s Residence to food programs for children and families, leadership development at Camp Echo, and healthy living programs for all.

When presenting the proclamation to McGaw YMCA President/CEO Monique Parsons, Mayor Biss declared November 17 as YMCA Day in Evanston, “in recognition of the YMCA’s rich legacy and in celebration of its enduring mission to foster belonging, growth, and community well-being for all.”

Reflecting on the proclamation, Parsons said, “Celebrating YMCA Day in Evanston honors our local history and the larger YMCA movement, which has served communities across the country for nearly 175 years. The YMCA has been woven into the fabric of Evanston for generations, becoming a central hub for support, community, and opportunities to thrive. We are grateful to the City of Evanston and Mayor Biss for recognizing our work.”

Community Celebration – November 17

McGaw YMCA kicks off its 140th Anniversary with a community birthday celebration on Monday, November 17, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the Y’s Chinnock Lounge at 1000 Grove Street.

The event will include remarks from President & CEO Monique Parsons and a special presentation by Morris (Dino) Robinson, founder of the Shorefront Legacy Center, on the history of the Emerson Street Branch Y from his newly revised book, Gatherings: The History and Activities of the Emerson Street Branch YMCA, followed by a book signing. Guests can enjoy birthday cake and YMCA swag while supplies last, sign a giant birthday card, and view the YMCA Day Proclamation. The event is free and open to the public.

The McGaw YMCA’s 140th Anniversary celebration will continue throughout the year with special events and fundraising initiatives. For details, event updates, or to support the McGaw YMCA’s mission, visit mcgawymca.org/anniversary.