A Message from Champion for Youth Member Linda Reichenbach
Saying “yes” to YES
I was introduced to YES in 1997 when I was invited to their annual fundraising event, the Invest in Youth Breakfast. I continued to support YES’ annual event and in 2006 I was asked to serve on the Invest in Youth Breakfast Committee to help fundraise for the organization. Saying “yes” to Youth Eastside Services was an easy decision.
We had one teenager and two soon-to-be teenagers at the time, and I was already very passionate about access to mental health services. I was aware of the increasing challenges of growing up in today’s world and knew YES was there to meet those needs for youth in our community.
Becoming an advocate for youth
In 2011 I joined the YES Board of Trustees, and have also continued to serve on the Breakfast Committee and as a Table Captain ever since. My husband Steve also serves as a Table Captain at YES’ annual event.
In addition to serving on the Board of Trustees and as a Table Captain, my husband and I are also members of YES’ Champions for Youth Giving Circle. Being part of the Giving Circle is important to our family because of our shared experiences around mental health.
Mental health, a family value
I do not know where I would be without receiving the counseling I did as a young person. Fast forward to being a parent, our family has benefited greatly from the counseling that our family members have received.
Supporting an organization like YES, which serves families and youth regardless of their ability to pay, is integral to who we are as a family.
We believe that by being part of the Champions for Youth Giving Circle, we help in YES’ ability to carry out the mission of being a lifeline in our community.
We hope that you too will become a member of YES’ Champions for Youth Giving Circle; together we can change lives for the better, and help youth live to their fullest potential.
To learn more about the Giving Circle, contact Lisa Hay, Chief Advancement Officer at 425-586-2328 or
lisah@youtheastsideservices.org.