Alonso announced the launch of the Get Summer Program, a critical new partnership that will provide Chicago teens ages 12 to 18 free memberships at seven YMCA locations across Chicago.
The program, which will run from June 8 through the end of August, aims to expand access to safe, welcoming spaces where young people can stay active, build community, and forge lasting connections while enjoying positive opportunities throughout the summer.
Qualifying youth in the city with existing YMCA memberships will receive complimentary memberships during July and August.
“Creating safe, engaging spaces for young people requires all of us working together—public and private partners, community organizations, civic leaders, and residents alike,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “By opening doors to free recreational opportunities and welcoming spaces for teens across our city.
Whether they are swimming, playing basketball, using fitness facilities, or connecting with mentors, these experiences build confidence, foster belonging, and open new opportunities.
I am deeply grateful to the YMCA and all of our partners who continue investing in Chicago’s young people and helping create safe, joyful summers for families in every neighborhood.”
Participating teens will be granted free access to YMCA fitness centers, gymnasiums, basketball courts, swimming pools during designated open-swim hours, athletic turf fields, and other recreational spaces.
The program has the potential to provide thousands of young Chicagoans with safe, welcoming environments to stay active, build friendships, connect with mentors, and engage in positive activities throughout the summer.
“The Y has always believed that every young person deserves a place to grow, thrive, and discover their potential, regardless of their zip code or family income,” said Adam M.
Alonso, YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago President & CEO. “This year,â¯theâ¯Get Summer Programâ¯will removeâ¯barriersâ¯and open our doors to the teens of Chicago.
We hope they come in, use our pools, our gyms, and our fields, and leave feeling stronger, healthier, and even more connected to their communities.”â¯
The initiative reflects a shared commitment by the City of Chicago and the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago to create safe, engaging spaces for young people and support their well-being year-round.
In addition, Mielle Cares, a Chicagoland-rooted foundation dedicated to the mental wellbeing of teens and communities across Chicago, today announced plans to launch a $250,000 Summer Opportunity Fund focused on expanding safe, welcoming, youth-centered gathering opportunities across the city, including the YMCA’s Get Summer program.
This follows a two-year, $2 million MiSpace Grant the foundation made to help create and sustain dedicated third spaces for teens and preteens.
“This effort is intentional: it will move quickly, complement existing public investments, and demonstrate what is possible when philanthropy and government work together on behalf of Chicago’s youth,” said Shonta Connolly, Executive Director of Mielle Cares. “We are proud to stand alongside our partners at the YMCA and answer the call from city leaders to invest more deeply in our youth.”
Both Mayor Johnson and the YMCA thank Mielle Cares and Connolly and recognized the foundation’s active role in supporting Chicago youth and the city overall.
By removing financial barriers and expanding access to recreation, fitness, and community-based activities, these partnerships help connect teens to positive experiences that foster belonging, encourage healthy lifestyles, and strengthen connections to their communities.
The program also builds on broader efforts across Chicago to ensure young people have safe places to gather, learn, and grow during the summer months.
The participating YMCA locations serve communities across Chicago’s North, West, and South Sides, ensuring broad, citywide access for young people.
Participating YMCA Locationsâ¯
Irving Park YMCA⯗ 4251 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago, IL 60641â¯
Kelly Hall YMCA⯗ 824 N. Hamlin Ave., Chicago, IL 60651â¯
Lake View YMCA⯗ 3333 N. Marshfield Ave., Chicago, IL 60657â¯
McCormick YMCA⯗ 1834 N. Lawndale Ave., Chicago, IL 60647â¯
Rauner Family YMCA⯗ 2700 S. Western Ave., Chicago, IL 60608â¯
South Side YMCA⯗ 6330 S. Stony Island Ave., Chicago, IL 60637â¯
West Garfield Park YMCA⯗ 4305 W. Madison St., Chicago, IL 60624â¯
Valid proof of age and Chicago residency are required to register.
Teens 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult at registration.
For more information aboutâ¯Get Summer Program, teens and parents are encouraged to visit their nearest YMCA location or visitymcachicago.org/getsummer.
About the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicagoâ¯
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.â¯
About Mielle Cares
Mielle Cares is a foundation dedicated to championing the mental health and well-being of preteens and teenagers across our city.
Founded by Melvin and Monique Rodriguez, our mission is rooted in one goal: to nurture a positive, resilient mindset in young people and ensure they feel seen, supported, and empowered.