On April 11, the YMCA movement in the United States lost one of its heroes — Arthur Holland, 86, who was CEO of the West Cook YMCA for 20 years. Many members will remember Art and his selfless dedication to his community and our Y membership.
Art spent his entire career with the YMCA, first at the West Cook YMCA, formerly known as the Oak Park YMCA, and then at the Northwest Suburban YMCA, followed by 12 years with YMCA of the Metropolitan Chicago before returning to the West Cook YMCA. In addition to his passion for health education and wellness, Art was an avid pilot and a man of deep faith.
Shortly after I joined the West Cook YMCA as CEO three years ago, Art was one of the first people to call me, both to extend congratulations and to offer to share his vast knowledge when needed. That exemplified his spirit of collaboration — always willing to give of himself for the betterment of others.
Art’s wife, Joan, and his daughter, Becky, graciously shared Art with the West Cook Y for those 20 years. I extend to them both my deep sympathy as well as my heartfelt gratitude that they made it possible for Art to invest his time at the Y to make it as strong a part of the community as it is today.
Art’s influence remains at the Y, and many of our programs and philosophies reflect his passion for helping people be their best selves. Art helped bring out the best in me, as I know he did for many others who were influenced by his life of service and the joy he brought to everything he did.
Rest in peace, Art. Thank you for always reflecting the passion for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility that we at the West Cook Y remain committed to today.
Phillip Jiménez
President & CEO
