Investing in What Can Be

Last October, hundreds of community partners across the Chicagoland area demonstrated their passion for the Y’s work by investing in what can be at the Association’s Annual Recognition Dinner, presented by BMO Harris Bank.

Seen as a powerful endorsement, the virtual event inspired a record-high $1.3 million in generous contributions from engaged philanthropists, generous corporate sponsors, and other like-minded Y supporters who believe in the value of strengthening youth, families, and communities. Philanthropic gifts like those pledged at the Recognition Dinner are vital to ensuring that the Y’s quality programs remain accessible to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. Every year, our scholarship program provides nearly $2 million in financial assistance to local families.

This year’s dinner celebrated three distinguished honorees and the investments they’ve made to transform Chicagoland’s tomorrows:  Dr. Byron T. Brazier (Volunteer Award), Mr. Peter B. McNitt (Leader Award), and the Wintrust Financial Corporation (Partner Award). It was an evening of reflection, celebration, and reverence that showcased the Y’s work and evolving vision for serving our diverse communities. 

Additionally, our partners at Wintrust also helped us showcase our pride in investing in our community’s youth in a big way. In October, the Y was proudly featured on Wintrust’s mural overlooking the Kennedy Expressway, allowing more than 500,000 travelers to catch a glimpse of the many ways in which we empower youth to reach their fullest potential.