North Suburban YMCA CEO Howard Schultz gets surprise retirement car parade
When his retirement was first announced, North Suburban YMCA President/CEO Howard Schultz was going to plan a community event to say goodbye to his staff, volunteers, board, and members. "I knew after 13½ years in my dream job, it was going to be tough to say goodbye," Schultz said.
Though as it turned out, not as tough as dealing with a global pandemic. The North Suburban YMCA facility in Northbrook has been closed since March 15 when the shelter-at-home order was first issued. Except for virtual meetings on Zoom, Schultz had not seen his staff since early March.
"We wanted to do something really special to honor Howard, and we were not going to let a pandemic stop us," said Kathy Fielding, the North Suburban YMCA's new CEO. "He has done so much for the NSYMCA community, from saving it from crippling debt in 2008 to organizing the Y's biggest fundraiser, The Ken & Alta Thiel Strong Kids Dinner."
On Schultz's last day on the job, Fielding and her team organized dozens of North Suburban YMCA staff, volunteers, board members, and friends to participate in a surprise drive-by car parade in front of Schultz's home. The participants caravanned to the Highland Park home where a shocked yet happy Howard Schultz, along with wife Jan, stood outside waving to the parade of well-wishers who blew kisses, waved goodbye, and honked their horns.
Schultz is recognized as one of the top Y executives in the nation, for growing the size and scope of the Y, as well as for leading and expanding efforts that transform the lives of those who need the Y the most. He has remained at the forefront of program and philanthropic innovation helping grow the Y's annual giving from $100k to over $450k to ensure that the Y remains accessible to all and continues to address community challenges such as the achievement gap, chronic disease prevention, and inclusion.
"Howard made the NSYMCA a true center of the community - a diverse home for all that is totally accessible regardless of who you are, where you are from, or how much money you have, and where you can be all that you inspire to be," said Fielding.
About the North Suburban YMCA
The North Suburban YMCA services Northbrook and 14 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help its residents become healthier, more connected, and confident, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The YMCA 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.