NSYMCA’s Holiday Giveback Triples Volunteer Participation, Delivering Over 250 Blessing Bags

Northbrook, IL: December 2025 – In its 8th year, the North Suburban YMCA’s Holiday Giveback event was held on December 6 in Northbrook and welcomed more than 150+ volunteers of all ages who gathered to create “Blessing Bags” for individuals experiencing homelessness.

Hosted by the NSYMCA Social Responsibility Committee, volunteers assembled over 250+ Blessing Bags filled with essential items such as water bottles, socks, washcloths, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, and various toiletries. Each bag also included a handmade holiday card crafted by volunteers to add a warm, personal touch.

That same evening, 200 blessing bags were delivered through Project I Am, a Chicago-based nonprofit founded in 2016 by then–eight-year-old Jahkil Naeem Jackson. The organization serves veterans and people experiencing homelessness. Another 70 bags were shared with Wheeling School District 21, where many students receive free or reduced-price lunches and these families often experience financial strain, especially during the holiday season.

“Our volunteer participation this year tripled in size compared to last, which we are so grateful for,” said Kim Nyren, Director of Community Investment and Events. “Now in our 8th year, we have made more than 2,300 Blessing Bags, and every year we see multiple generations of families come together to support such an important cause. Volunteers continue to make this initiative a meaningful giveback for families in need, and for their help, our Y is incredibly thankful.”

New to the Northbrook area, Valerie Pacini and her 13-year-old daughter, Alessia, attended the event for the first time. “It is very special to do something like this with my mom, and I am very grateful for the experience, which also helps with my confirmation hours,” said Alessia. “This event is so inspiring that I decided to get more involved with the YMCA’s mission and social responsibility efforts,” added Valerie.

“I am so happy to be here for the first time with my best friend, Roman,” shared 10-year-old Patrick Feyerer of Meadowbrook Elementary School in Northbrook. “It feels good to know we are helping so many people.”

A majority of the donated items came from UBS Financial Services in Northbrook, with additional contributions from community members, Y members, healthcare companies and Y board members. Event sponsors included Illinois Bone and Joint Institute, UBS Financial Services - Northbrook, Waterway Carwash, and Wintrust Community Banks.

The next community giveback event is the Y’s annual pet blanket event, Fleece for Fur Babies, which will be held on Sunday, March 15, 2026, from 1 pm-2 pm, at the NSYMCA located at 2705 Techny Road in Northbrook. Open to the entire community, the event seeks donations of new, unopened pet supplies. Families attending the event can help make tie-fleece blankets for animals at local shelters. Participants are asked to bring their own fleece material and scissors. For more information in 2026, visit nsymca.org.

Those interested in joining a committee at the NSYMCA or learning more about volunteer opportunities may contact Kim Nyren at knyren@nsymca.org or visit nsymca.org.

To support the Y’s mission through a monetary donation, please visit nsymca.org or call 847-272-7250.

About the North Suburban YMCA

The North Suburban YMCA services Northbrook and 14 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help its residents become healthier, more connected, and confident, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The NSYMCA focuses on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility and is a 501(c)3 charitable organization, inclusive and welcoming to all in our community. Learn more at NSYMCA.org.

About Project I Am

Project I Am is a non-profit organization that helps families and people experiencing homelessness. Project I Am was started in 2016 by Jahkil Naeem Jackson, now 18 years old, was named one of the most influential people of 2017 by President Barrack Obama and has been recognized by numerous corporations and organizations like Disney, CNN and Marvel as a hero and youth ambassador of philanthropy and influence.