Fred Jarrett’s Dedication to Building a Stronger Future
FROM CITY COUNCIL TO YES ADVOCATE
Fred Jarrett’s journey with YES began over four decades ago during his tenure on the Mercer Island City Council. Elected in 1979, Fred supported the creation of the Mercer Island Youth Services Department.
“Our director, Peg Morgan, and Patti Skelton were two of the great leaders of youth service agencies and great mentors for me.”
His dedication to youth services only deepened as he saw firsthand the impact of organizations like YES on the lives of young people.
PERSONAL TIES TO YES’ MISSION
Fred’s commitment to youth mental health is not only professional but deeply personal. As a father of four and grandfather of ten— four of whom are foster grandchildren— Fred has experienced the challenges and joys of parenting firsthand.
“Having institutions in our community that support parenting and children makes parenthood less a lonely experience and more of a partnership.”
His family experiences, combined with his legislative work around education and foster care, reinforced his belief in the importance of mental health services. He knows that having a strong support system can make all the difference for families and their children.
WHY YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS
Fred has spent much of his career advocating for youth and he believes that today’s generation of young people is growing up in an increasingly complex and challenging environment. To Fred, the work of agencies like YES is essential because they provide the support systems that today’s youth need to help build resilience.
SUPPORTING YOUTH IS EVERYONE’S RESPONSIBILITY
Fred believes that everyone in the community has a role to play in supporting the next generation.
“We live in an amazing community, and we all have a responsibility for the development of our next generations,” he says.
Fred encourages others to support YES not just for the benefit of today’s youth, but for the future of the entire community.
GRATITUDE FOR FRED AND OUR DONORS
We are immensely grateful to Fred Jarrett for sharing his story and for his unwavering support of YES. His commitment to improving the lives of young people is an inspiration.
To Fred, and to all of our generous donors—thank you.
Your support makes a profound impact on the lives of the youth we serve and helps YES continue its vital mission of transforming lives and building a stronger future for all.
Join Fred in supporting children, youth, and families by donating today! Each gift, whether it’s $5 or $500, makes a significant impact on the lives of youth.
And now you can give something youth can count on by making a monthly donation to YES. A monthly gift is the most convenient and effective way to provide consistent help to children, youth, and families in our community. It’s also budget and inflation-friendly.
