North Suburban YMCA Looks Forward to a Year of Celebration for 50th Anniversary
The North Suburban YMCA, a community institution that started with just a home basement office, will celebrate 50 years of service at its Northbrook facility with an exceptional year-long series of events beginning in June 2018. These events, combined with new programs and strategic initiatives, will reflect on the consistent values that have been the foundation of the Y for decades, honoring the past while looking toward a vital future.
The community is invited to celebrate the Y's history and future with a special "50 Fest" summer party on Saturday, August 25 from 3:00 to 7:00pm, featuring live music, food, arts and crafts, and fun for the entire family.
A History of Community Service
Founded by Ken and Alta Thiel in 1961, the NSYMCA launched a variety of youth and family programs held at various sites around Northbrook. A multiyear fundraising effort culminated in the construction of the Y's home building at 2705 Techny Road, which opened in 1969.
From its earliest days through the start of the 21st century, generations of local residents have relied on the NSYMCA, learning to swim in the pool, shooting hoops in the gym, and practicing ballet in the dance studios. Various additions over the years transformed the original building into an 80,000 square foot facility to keep up with changing needs.
Children who grew up at the Y in the 1970s and '80s now bring their own kids to enjoy the benefits of nurturing, enriching Y programs. Across the board, these programs emphasize personal growth and values: teamwork, confidence, respect, and the importance of healthy lifestyles.
Four decades into its mission, the Y faced challenging times as its building required significant renovations even as the economy placed hardships on many Y member families. Despite these challenges, the Y community was galvanized to strengthen the Y and affirm its role as a source of support and connection for everyone. Led by CEO Howard Schultz and an active volunteer Board of Directors, the Y raised funds through capital campaigns to pay off the Y's debt and undertake a massive construction project to make the building more welcoming, safe, energy efficient, and accessible for individuals with disabilities.
The Y is now thriving with a growing membership and a rich network of partnerships with other local organizations for specialized programming and events. Through its Strong Kids Fund, the NSYMCA provides financial assistance that enables individuals in financial need to participate fully in the Y's benefits. More than one out of five individuals at the Y - over 2,600 people - receive financial assistance through the Strong Kids Fund for after-school programs, summer camp, life-saving swim lessons, and other activities for all ages.
Anniversary Initiatives Look Toward the Future
The 50th Anniversary events will feature the history of the Y and its community since 1968 and include launching several new major initiatives: Two Seconds Too Long, teaching every second grader to be safe around water, five Integrated Health Awareness programs, a Community Engagement Expansion Enterprise, and a major capital improvement project and campaign.
"The Y is not just another place to work out or swim; it seeks to improve the lives of people of all ages throughout the community," commented Howard Schultz, North Suburban YMCA President/CEO since 2006. "Our core values of healthy living, youth development, and social responsibility resonate in all our programs and events. We are eager to celebrate this outstanding resource with events that honor the rich history of the Y and our community over the last 50 years, and are equally excited to launch new transformative programs that will guide our Y for the next 50 years."
About the North Suburban YMCA
Celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2018/19, the North Suburban YMCA provides individuals in Northbrook and 15 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help them become healthier, more connected, and confident, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The NSYMCA focuses on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility and is a charitable organization, inclusive and welcoming to all in our community. Learn more at NSYMCA.org.