Erika Wood, Executive Director of the Fry Family YMCA in Naperville, has announced her retirement after 43 years of dedicated service to youth, families, and communities. Her YMCA journey began on Chicago’s South Side at the West Communities YMCA when she was just 12 years old.
A Lifetime of Service
Wood’s career with the YMCA spanned multiple locations, including the YMCA of Metro Denver and the Indian Boundary YMCA in Downers Grove. She eventually helped lead the Fry Family YMCA’s Safe ‘n Sound afterschool program for over 15 years.
Throughout her career, Wood said she was never motivated by titles. ‘The learning, the people, and the programming fueled me,’ she said. Among the moments she is most proud of was helping the YMCA respond during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Wood’s final day with the YMCA will be Friday, July 3, 2026. Leaders across the organization reflect on her lasting impact, with YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago President & CEO Adam Alonso saying, ‘Erika’s legacy is one of compassion, leadership, and unwavering dedication to strengthening community.’
Original reporting: Positively Naperville (Aurora area) — read the source article.
