The Metro Y has decided to permanently close the High Ridge Y on January 22, 2021 despite little notice and no community input. A campaign to save the Y, started by a group of community residents, has collected over 800 signatures on a letter and hosted a virtual community meeting with 200 attendees on Sunday, January 10. Although they asked the Y to have representatives in that meeting, the Y declined their request. Next steps include a rally on Sunday, January 17 from 1-3PM and emails to the Y leadership and Board. The Y has been a resource and asset to the West Ridge community for over 70 years, serving all ages and all groups. Join in the efforts to SAVE THE HIGH RIDGE Y!
View interviews with community members as they discuss the importance of the High Ridge Y in their lives. Videos produced by West Ridge Artist Mirko Popadic.
HOW YOU CAN HELP:
1. SHOW UP FOR THE Y
On Sunday, January 17th, we will rally outside the High Ridge Y (at the N/W corner of Western and Touhy) from 1-3 pm. Bring a sign to tell the world what the High Ridge Y means to you!
2. SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS & FEELINGS WITH THE Y LEADERSHIP
Make sure the YMCA leadership cannot ignore your voice! Please send an email to each person listed below, which includes YMCA of Metro Chicago leadership and the managing Board of Directors. Here's a sample letter:
Subject line: Please Save the High Ridge YMCA!
Content:
Dear Mr. Hayes, I request that the YMCA of Metro Chicago meet with High Ridge YMCA members and supporters to create a plan for Saving the High Ridge YMCA. Together we can find a solution to Save the High Ridge YMCA
Email your message to:
YMCA of Metro Chicago Association Leadership:
James H. Hayes Interim President and CEO: jhayes@ymcachicago.org
Cherese Ledet Vice President of Operations: cledet@ymcachicago.org
Man-Yee Lee Communications Director: mlee@ymcachicago.org
YMCA of Metro Chicago Board of Managers:
Sharon Fairley Chairperson: fairleys@uchicago.edu
Stanley Nitzberg Vice Chairperson: SNitzberg@midamericagrp.com
Joseph Tilson Co-Chair: jtilson@cozen.com
Larry Hund Treasurer: larryhund@aol.com
Bridget O'Neill Secretary: O'NEILL@sidley.com
YMCA of the USA Leadership
Kevin Washington President and CEO, YMCA of the USA: kwashington@ymca.net
3. SHARE THIS URGENT NEWS WITH YOUR FAMILY, FRIENDS, NEIGHBORS AND ALL THOSE IMPACTED BY THIS DECISION
No comments