Keeping You Safe at the Y
Please read the following information to learn more about what we’re doing to maintain a healthy environment at the McGaw YMCA in a world with COVID-19. We will continue to follow the guidelines set forth by state and local health officials to ensure that we can offer an enjoyable, safe experience at the Y.
Enhanced Cleaning and Sanitizing Protocols
LAST UPDATED 2/28/2022
- Enhanced cleaning protocols are in place throughout our facilities.
- All equipment will be cleaned with disinfectant throughout the day and after closing each day. Members will be asked to use the provided cleaning supplies to clean equipment before and after each use.
- Frequently touched surfaces (examples: elevators, stair handrails and door handles) will be cleaned regularly with disinfectant.
- Hand sanitizing stations and disinfectant wipes are located around the facility.
- To ensure proper distancing and cleaning, our fitness areas are operating at limited capacity.
Safety Protocols
LAST UPDATED 5/13/2022
Mask requirements at McGaw YMCA will be determined by Evanston’s Community Risk Level as reported by the City of Evanston’s Health & Human Services Department. The Community Risk Level is reported weekly in the City’s e-newsletter and related situation reports are posted on its COVID-19 webpage under “Communication Updates”.
McGaw YMCA will post color-coded signs on our 1000 Grove Street entrances and at key points throughout the building that match the reported risk level for Evanston. The signs will inform you of the YMCA’s mask requirement on that day. We encourage you to have a mask with you each time you plan to visit the Y.
Look for these color-coded signs at McGaw Y entrances:

Low Community Risk Level in Evanston
Masks are optional.

Medium Community Risk Level in Evanston
Masks are optional, but highly recommended.

High Community Risk Level in Evanston
Masks are required.
- The Illinois Department of Public Health states that at all Community Levels, people can wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by personal level of risk. People with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask.
- Members should bring their own lock for lockers, water bottle (non-glass), and a workout towel. Towel service is no longer provided.
- Wash and sanitize your hands for at least 20 seconds before you work out, utilize equipment, or participate in programs.
- Wipe down all equipment, weights, mats, etc. with the provided cleaning materials, along with any surfaces you touch.
By attending our program and scanning in our facilities, you are acknowledging and accepting our updated waivers and permissions. If you have questions, contact our Member Service team.
Health Requirements
LAST UPDATED 2/13/2023
We ask everyone to adhere to the following health requirements when planning their next visit to the Y:
Stay home if you feel sick or have had exposure to COVID-19. If you have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or develop symptoms of COVID-19 after you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, follow the steps provided by the Illinois Department of Public Health to help prevent the disease from spreading to people in your home and community. People with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask.