What is an Endowment?
An endowment is a donation fund set aside for permanent investment. Instead of being utilized all at once, the gift is invested, and a portion of the annual earnings is used to support YMCA programs and operations. This means your generosity continues to provide impact year after year, creating a dependable and lasting source of funding for the Y.
Imagine the impact: Instead of sending 20 kids to camp next summer, your gift could send 5 kids to camp every summer for the next 50 years. That’s 250 kids whose lives are changed — with the same dollar amount.
That’s the difference between a one-time gift and an endowment.
The Yakima YMCA’s Endowments
We are fortunate to steward five endowments, each with a special purpose for our community:
1. Ollie Nelson Youth Endowment
Our oldest endowment, established in 1993, supports youth outreach programs that build leadership, character, and Christian values. It continues to provide dependable annual funding for young people in our community.
2. Helen Jewett Endowment
Created in 2009 through a generous estate gift, this fund ensures the Jewett Child Development Center can continue offering quality early childhood education and care.
3. Aquatics Capital Fund
This fund helps maintain and upgrade our pools and aquatics facilities. It provides resources for major repairs and replacements like heaters, pumps, and plumbing — ensuring our aquatics programs remain safe and accessible.
4. Bob Lynch Camp Endowment
Named in honor of longtime YMCA Trustee Chair Bob Lynch, this endowment supports Camp Dudley. It helps fund improvements, upgrades, and camp scholarships — keeping camp a thriving place for youth and families.
5. General Endowment
Our newest fund, established in 2023, is designed to support the YMCA as a whole. This flexible endowment provides for needs that aren’t tied to a specific program — like facility upgrades, equipment, or even new program launches.
Why Endowments Matter
Endowments create a legacy that outlasts any single year of giving. They ensure that no matter what challenges the future brings, the YMCA can continue to provide life-changing programs and services for generations.
If you’re interested in learning more about how to contribute to one of our endowments, we’d love to connect.
Because when you give through an endowment, your gift doesn’t just make a difference today — it makes a difference forever.
Interested in learning more? Contact Development Director, Karissa Brandhagen at [email protected] or (509) 490-3904.
