Celebrating 20 Years of Partnership
Steve Miller & Pam Cowan
Steve Miller and Pam Cowan were introduced to YES more than 20 years ago. At the time, they were raising their kids in the Bellevue schools and Steve was just beginning his term on the Bellevue School Board.
Steve quickly came to understand that the classroom can’t serve all of a young person’s needs, particularly if a student is navigating complex family dynamics. YES became a natural and critical partner for the schools at that time, providing both professional case management and volunteer mentors for students.
YES is proud to call Steve and Pam our partners for more than 20 years. CEO Patti Skelton-McGougan said, “Steve and Pam have deep roots in this community and inherently understand the needs we see today. They are wonderfully generous with both their financial gifts to youth and families, as well as their guidance and counsel to me and our executive team.”
When Steve visits YES’ Bellevue office, he always takes a moment to glance behind the reception desk, where a whiteboard displays the current list of languages in which YES counselors can offer services. Steve and Pam are both immigration attorneys. They believe our community’s diversity makes us vibrant and that YES’ ability to serve families in their language of choice puts YES ahead of the curve.
“There are lots of organizations asking for support to help kids,” said Steve. “We choose to give when we know the decision makers of that organization are talented, dedicated, and insightful.”
The latest reason why Steve and Pam are excited to be YES partners? Open Access, YES’ walk-in services for new clients. “That’s priceless,” said Pam. “Kids are tricky and they can spiral very quickly. You have to get to them right away.”
Innovations like Open Access, in-school services, and culturally competent staff are all possible in our community because of longtime partners like Steve and Pam. We are deeply grateful for all those who helped build YES into the comprehensive community resource it is today.
For 50 years, caring community members like Pam and Steve have supported and advanced Youth Eastside Services’ mission through their generous contributions. Every gift helps further YES’ service to youth and families, and gifts of $1,000 or more are especially critical to our ability to meet behavioral health care needs, now and in the future.
To learn more about becoming a Champion for Youth visit our website at: youtheastsideservices.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/champions/ or contact Melissa Stuart Donor Relations Officer at 425.999.0224
