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The McGaw YMCA in Evanston, Illinois, has announced the start of its 140th anniversary celebration. The organization will hold a year-long series of events and initiatives to recognize more than a century of service to the local community.
Founded on November 17, 1885, the YMCA in Evanston—now known as the McGaw YMCA—has offered programs aimed at nurturing spirit, mind, and body for generations. The organization is part of the YMCA of the USA network, which will mark its own 175th anniversary in 2026. Over time, McGaw YMCA has adapted its services to meet changing community needs, moving from its original location at Jennings Hall on Davis Street to its current home at 1000 Grove Street.
In the early twentieth century, the Evanston YMCA established Camp Echo in 1924 and opened several neighborhood branches. Among them was the Emerson Street Branch, which served Black residents until 1967 when segregated branches were discontinued nationwide by the YMCA of the USA. These branches provided fitness programs, youth development opportunities, civic engagement activities, vocational training, social connections, and affordable housing for men.
The organization was renamed McGaw YMCA in 1984 and expanded with new facilities such as the Children’s Center, Grimm Family Aquatic Center, Sebring-Lewis Center, and MetaMedia—a digital media and maker space for middle school students. Currently, McGaw YMCA is working on renovating its historic Men’s Residence to continue offering affordable housing options.
“As we celebrate 140 years in Evanston, we honor our past and look forward to continuing to serve our community for generations to come,” said Monique Parsons, President/CEO of McGaw YMCA.
“This anniversary celebrates everyone who has been part of our local story, while also recognizing our role within the larger YMCA movement, which has been helping people and communities learn, grow, and thrive across this country and around the world. Together, we are creating brighter futures.”
The anniversary celebration begins on November 17 with an event featuring birthday cake with President & CEO Monique Parsons and an author talk by Morris (Dino) Robinson from Shorefront Legacy Center about his book on the Emerson Street Branch YMCA. Additional events include a Community Family Fun Night Birthday Bash on November 21 with family activities such as a dance party and bounce house. A fundraising event called Y140 Party is scheduled for January 24 next year.
For more information about upcoming events or how to donate or participate in celebrations marking this milestone year for McGaw YMCA in Evanston can be found at their website.
