Statement from Several YMCAs on the Shooting in Highland Park, Illinois

Across Illinois, YMCAs are grieving the lives taken, the injured, and those who experienced the disturbing act of gun violence in Highland Park, Illinois. 

Individuals gathered to celebrate our nation’s independence and freedoms, but the tragic events of yesterday again remind us that we are not free from acts of violence and hatred. 

Our communities should be places and spaces for everyone to feel safe: to live, to work, to gather, to play. We must ensure that everybody can feel safe and secure in their community, and each of our organizations remains committed to doing this work. 
 

Yours in service, 

Doug Britt
Chief Executive Officer
Golden Corridor Family YMCA

Kathy Fielding 
Chief Executive Officer
North Suburban YMCA

Phillip Jimenez
Chief Executive Officer
West Cook YMC

Katy LeClair
Chief Executive Officer
Greater Joliet Area YMCA

J Andrew McFarlane
Chief Executive Officer  
Dixon Family YMCA

Dorri McWhorter
President & Chief Executive Officer
YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago

Sarah O’Donnell
Chief Executive Officer
Tri Town YMCA

Monique Parsons
President & Chief Executive Officer
McGaw YMCA

Paul Stanzione
Chief Executive Officer
Illinois State Alliance of YMCAs

Will Welsh
Chief Executive Officer
Kankakee Area YMCA

Rob Wilkinson
Chief Executive Officer
B. R. Ryall YMCA of Northwestern DuPage County