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Lake County YMCA celebrates 100 years
YMCA Chairman of the Board Bob Taylor of Waukegan shows off the blocks that represent the total amount of scholarships and financial aid the YMCA provides to families, single-parent families, seniors and adults so that they can take advantage of the Y’s various programs. | Lee Litas~Sun-Times Media
Lake County YMCA
Platinum
jubilee
The YMCA opened in 1912 in the Genesee Theatre and has grown over the last century to serve most of central and northern Lake County.
So far in 2012 the Lake County Family YMCA has provided scholarships to some 918 family members, 99 adults, 84 senior family members and 626 single-parent family members, all totaling more than $500,000 in financial assistance.
Article Extras
Updated: June 18, 2012 8:08AM
The Event: According to popular mores, the appropriate gift for a 100-year birthday is platinum. It is little wonder then that beloved community centenarian, the YMCA, chose to celebrate its platinum jubilee bash casino style at the Double Tree Hilton in Mundelein.
On April 21, more than 132 members and guests came to try their luck at winning the gold at the game tables; their efforts consequently helped support scholarships to the Y.
Cause Célèbre: “The Lake County YMCA is all about community, youth development, healthy living and social responsibility,” said Diane Aidem. “And our social responsibility is about giving back to the community so that we can continue our services in Lake County.”
What started in 1912 inside the Genesee Theatre in Waukegan has grown over the last century to encompass branches that serve most of central and northern Lake County, much of the shoreline, and the Mundelein, Vernon Hills and Libertyville areas.
So far in 2012 the Lake County Family YMCA has provided scholarships to some 918 family members, 99 adults, 84 senior family members and 626 single-parent family members, all totaling more than $500,000 in financial assistance.
“It’s not just children; we call it ‘cradle to grave,’ ” said YMCA chairman of the board Bob Taylor, emphasizing the fact that the Y offers programming for infant/toddler care, teens and seniors. “It’s here in the community and we really don’t turn anybody away … for over 100 years now.”
As a proud Waukegan native and 12-year Y member, Robert Allen Kutzler of XLC-FM (102.3) radio readily agreed to act as the evening’s emcee.
“I just like the Y. It’s a good atmosphere, professional but fun, and not just a workout place but a lifestyle,” he said.
Bottom Line: The event raised more than $50,000 for the YMCA.
