Adam M. Alonso Takes the Helm as President and CEO of YMCA Chicago

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago Welcomes Adam M. Alonso

In a significant leadership change, the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago has announced the appointment of Adam M. Alonso as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective July 28, 2025. This pivotal decision follows the unanimous approval by the YMCA Board of Managers and marks an exciting new chapter for the organization.

Adam Alonso is not new to community service or youth advocacy. Bringing with him over 30 years of experience in youth development, community partnerships, violence prevention, and mental health, Alonso is renowned for his strong leadership in various areas of nonprofit initiatives. Before stepping into his new role at the YMCA, he expertly led BUILD, Inc., a respected youth development organization in Chicago, recognized nationally for its innovative violence prevention programs.

During his decade-long tenure with BUILD, Alonso achieved remarkable success. He visionary led a $28 million capital campaign to establish a substantial 56,000-square-foot community hub in Austin, Chicago, significantly improving community resources and services. His strategic foresight helped expand the organization's budget from $2.3 million to an astounding $22.3 million and augmented staff sixfold, an impressive feat indicative of his capability.

Steve Sorenson, the Chairperson of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago Board of Managers, expressed his confidence in Alonso’s leadership qualities. He noted, "Adam embodies the vision and leadership we need at this transformative time for the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. His commitment to building and empowering communities, along with his proven ability to fortify our core offerings, will undoubtedly elevate our impact in serving families across the Chicagoland area."

Feeling honored to join the YMCA, Alonso remarked, “This organization reflects my dedication to empowering young people, families, and communities to thrive. Together, we will build on the Y's momentum by expanding services that benefit individuals through every stage of their lives.” His commitment to the community resonates with the YMCA’s ongoing transformation, which seeks to meet the growing needs of families in an ever-evolving landscape.

Under his stewardship, the YMCA is set to reinforce its model of 21st-century community hubs, which extend over 15 centers and include five overnight camps as well as 100 early education and afterschool program sites. Alonso’s leadership is expected to foster long-term sustainability, operational excellence, and program expansion, ensuring that the YMCA continues to adapt and respond to the regional community’s evolving requirements.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago remains devoted to fostering community strength through initiatives such as youth development, health promotion, mental health support, and workforce training. Adam Alonso’s appointment signals the YMCA’s ambitious vision for continued growth and enhanced impact throughout the community.

About YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago

The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago serves as a prominent figure in providing accessible, inclusive programming for over 300,000 individuals annually. Its mission is to link people to their purpose, potential, and community. With 25 locations, including 15 community hubs and five overnight camps, it continues its evolution into a modern social enterprise aiming to connect and empower communities across Chicagoland and the Midwest. Learn more at ymcachicago.org.