DOWNERS GROVE, ILLINOIS (Friday, January 16, 2026) — The Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club (DGJWC) is proud to announce the Indian Boundary YMCA as its official 2025–2026 Charity Partner, committing $20,000 in funding along with yearlong volunteer support to strengthen services for children, families, and individuals throughout the local community.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to education, family stability, and community wellness. DGJWC’s funding will directly support YMCA programs that remove financial barriers and expand access to essential services, including early learning transportation, youth swim scholarships and lifeguard training, teacher appreciation initiatives, family enrichment programs, and community amenities that foster safe, welcoming spaces for families.
“We are deeply grateful to the Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club for selecting the Indian Boundary YMCA as its 2025–2026 Charity Partner,” said Ron Anderson, Executive Director of the Indian Boundary YMCA. “This partnership goes beyond financial support — it reflects a shared commitment to ensuring children and families in our community have access to safe spaces, enriching programs, and opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. Together, we are strengthening the foundation of our community.”
In addition to financial support, DGJWC members will actively volunteer with the Indian Boundary YMCA throughout the year by supporting family-focused events, youth and intergenerational programming, and seasonal donation drives that serve families in need.
“As a former primary school educator for 16 years, choosing a partner that supports early childhood education is deeply meaningful to me,” said Emily Heise, President of the Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club. “The Indian Boundary YMCA’s Early Learning program, combined with their broad support for families, makes them a natural and impactful charity partner for our club.”
Funding for DGJWC’s charitable initiatives is raised through the Club’s annual community events, including the Witches Walk, held each October, and the Second Annual DGJWC House Walk, scheduled for Friday, May 1, 2026. The House Walk is DGJWC’s premier fundraiser and invites the community to tour architecturally distinctive homes while enjoying local vendors, small bites, beverages, and convenient trolley transportation. Proceeds from these events directly support DGJWC’s charitable partners and service programs that uplift children, families, and individuals facing hardship throughout the Downers Grove community.
This partnership underscores DGJWC’s continued focus on meaningful, local impact—ensuring that every dollar raised and every volunteer hour given strengthens the community it serves.
About the YMCA in Downers Grove
The Indian Boundary YMCA, part of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities and supporting people in mind, body, and spirit. Serving Downers Grove and the western suburbs, the Y provides welcoming spaces where individuals and families can learn, connect, and thrive.
About the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is a regional leader in accessible, inclusive programming for more than 300,000 individuals each year, strengthening community by connecting all people to their purpose, potential, and each other. With multiple locations and community programs across the Chicago metropolitan area, the YMCA of Metro Chicago provides inclusive spaces and services that help individuals and families thrive — from child care and after school programs to fitness, wellness, and community outreach.
MEDIA CONTACTS
Jack Segal
Director of Marketing and Communications
YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
312-805-8838
jsegal@ymcachicago.org
Holly Duffy
DGJWC Communications Committee Chair
DGJWC.comms@gmail.com