March 13, 2024
DORRI C. MCWHORTER
MEMBER, CIVIC FEDERATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Number of years with the Federation: 6
Committees: Criminal Justice
Day job: President & CEO, YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
Recognized as a “nonprofit disruptor,” Dorri McWhorter serves as President & CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. As part of the organization’s continued transformation, Dorri’s vision for the Y is to establish presence and impact in every Chicago neighborhood, across the Midwest, and around the globe.
Dorri serves on several corporate and non-profit boards, including LanzaTech, Common Impact and Chicago Council on Global Affairs. She is an Inductee to the Chicago Innovation Hall of Fame, and her work to create a new paradigm for the social-impact sector is featured in the documentary Uncharitable.
What made you want to join the Civic Federation?
I see the Civic Federation as a leader in fiscal policy and fiscal responsibility. I also really appreciate the cross section of organizations and sectors represented by the Federation.
What do you enjoy most about being a part of the Civic Federation?
I enjoy the breadth of issues that we address and the variety of people who participate in the Federation, both as members across civic-minded organizations and as speakers and guests who come to interact with our membership.
What's your favorite Chicago hidden gem?
The dog park in Lake Shore East. It’s like a whole downtown neighborhood for dogs!
What's a project you're working on right now?
Re-establishing the Y’s presence in communities such as West Garfield Park, the Loop, and others (stay tuned!).
Your work background is very diverse. How has your range of experiences informed your leadership styles and goals?
My experience across the private and nonprofit sectors has helped me understand the interconnectivity of all the civic and business players across Chicagoland. It especially helps me envision how we can work together to create win-win-win scenarios and the greatest amount of positive impact for society.