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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
MCGAW YMCA CAMP ECHO RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, McGaw YMCA in Evanston, IL runs Camp Echo, a residential YMCA camp on Ryerson Long Lake located near Fremont, Michigan, has helped transform the lives of countless campers since its inception in 1924.
WHEREAS, Camp Echo has been a treasured destination for generations of Evanston children and families for more than 120 years. The history of camping at the McGaw YMCA (formerly the Evanston YMCA) traces back to 1899, operating camp programs at various locations across Wisconsin and Michigan for the first 25 years; and
WHEREAS, Camp Echo has consistently evolved to meet the needs of today’s campers. Camp Echo’s ongoing priority is to increase access and design the camp experience with all people in mind, particularly those who have been historically excluded from camp. Along with McGaw YMCA, Camp Echo remains dedicated to providing new generations of campers with transformational, inclusive, outdoor experiences while addressing historical and present challenges; and
WHEREAS, each year, over 1,500 campers from Evanston and beyond are inspired to cultivate the whole person, strengthen community, and provide equitable access to transformational experiences that uplift the mind, body, and spirit; and
WHEREAS, many campers start their Camp Echo journey early, attending Family or Traditional Camp starting in the summer before 3rd grade. As campers grow, options expand to Adventure Trips and leadership programs, paving the way for future roles as camp staff.
WHEREAS, Camp Echo staff are a dedicated group of professional youth developers who passionately believe in the power of the overnight camp experience and what it does to help grow a child's sense of wonder, adventure, and independence; and
WHEREAS, Camp Echo hires nearly 200 seasonal staff members every summer, serving as a significant employer for youth aged 17-25 years old; and
WHEREAS, in 2024, McGaw YMCA Camp Echo celebrates its 100th anniversary, at its current location, of being a haven of experiential learning, nurturing personal growth, friendships, adventure, and a profound connection to the outdoors; and
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Commissioners of Cook County that Camp Echo’s Centennial is a chance to honor the camp’s history, reflect on the camp’s progress, and design the path forward towards becoming a camp where everyone belongs.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this text be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body, and a suitable copy of same be tendered to McGaw YMCA Camp Echo.
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