McGaw YMCA announces the return of its annual Day of Giving on May 7, 2026, a one-day opportunity for the Evanston community to come together and help create brighter futures with local impact.
In honor of McGaw YMCA’s 140th anniversary, this year’s goal is to rally 140 donors in just 24 hours. Thanks to a generous matching gift, every donation made on May 7 will be doubled, up to $15,000, supporting essential programs that strengthen youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility across the Evanston community.
“We’re excited to bring back the McGaw YMCA Day of Giving during our 140th anniversary,” said Michael Bergmann, Chair of the McGaw YMCA Board. “For 140 years, the Y has a place where our community comes together to support one another. With the generous match, every gift will go twice as far to keep our programs accessible to all.”
To celebrate each act of generosity, McGaw YMCA will plant a colorful pinwheel in its Garden of Gratitude on the front lawn, creating a vibrant display showing how every gift helps build a brighter future for Evanston.
How to Participate on May 7:
- Donate Online: Make your gift online and it will be matched dollar for dollar. A pinwheel will be added to the Garden of Gratitude to recognize your impact.
- Give In Person: Stop by McGaw YMCA to donate and place your own pinwheel in the Garden of Gratitude.
- Spread the Word: Share the campaign with friends, family, and neighbors to help reach the goal of 140 donors and unlock the full $15,000 matching gift.