YMCA Chicago’s “Get Summer” Program Welcomes Nearly 1,000 Teens in First Week

CHICAGO - The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago’s new “Get Summer” initiative is off to a strong start, drawing nearly 1,000 teen registrations during its first week.

Launched in partnership with Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office on June 3, the program offers free YMCA memberships to Chicago teens ages 12–18 through the end of August. The goal is to give young people greater access to safe, supportive spaces where they can stay active, connect with peers, and take part in positive summer experiences.

Participating teens can enjoy access to YMCA fitness centers, gymnasiums, swimming pools (where available), and athletic fields across select Chicago locations.

The program also received added support from Mielle Cares, a Chicago-area foundation focused on teen mental wellness and strengthening communities. The organization announced a new $250,000 Summer Opportunity Fund aimed at expanding safe, youth-centered gathering spaces throughout Chicago, including support for the YMCA’s Get Summer initiative.

This investment builds on Mielle Cares’ previous commitment through its two-year, $2 million MiSpace Grant, which helped establish and maintain dedicated spaces for teens and preteens.

Participating YMCA Locations

Irving Park YMCA — 4251 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago, IL 60641 (Old Irving Park)
Kelly Hall YMCA — 824 N. Hamlin Ave., Chicago, IL 60651 (W. Humboldt Park)
Lake View YMCA — 3333 N. Marshfield Ave., Chicago, IL 60657 (Lake View)
McCormick YMCA — 1834 N. Lawndale Ave., Chicago, IL 60647 (Humboldt Park)
Rauner Family YMCA — 2700 S. Western Ave., Chicago, IL 60608 (Little Village, Pilsen)
South Side YMCA — 6330 S. Stony Island Ave., Chicago, IL 60637 (Hyde Park, Woodlawn)
West Garfield Park YMCA — 4305 W. Madison St., Chicago, IL 60624 (West Garfield Park)

Teens must provide proof of age and Chicago residency to enroll. Anyone age 17 or younger must register with a parent or guardian present.

For details about the Get Summer program, visit ymcachicago.org/getsummer!

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About the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is your Y for Life, serving more than 120,000 people each year through a network of around 100 community facilities, overnight camps, and learning sites. From sports and fitness to aquatics, camps, preschool, and before- and after-school programs, the Y helps individuals and families build healthy minds, bodies, and spirits at any age or stage of life. The YMCA of the USA proudly celebrates 175 years of community impact in 2026.

MEDIA CONTACT
Tiffany D. Smith
Communications Specialist
YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
773-790-9643
[email protected]