This type of donation is ideal for those who want to support the Y’s mission while at the same time paying tribute to a special person. Often, gifts are made in memory of a lost one. Many donors also decide to celebrate a joyous event such as a birthday, wedding, anniversary or graduation by inviting their friends and family to make a gift to the Y.

YMCA Tribute Funds

The Y offers you the possibility of creating a fund that will bear the name of your loved one, your family or your own name.

These funds exist in perpetuity because only the income earned on the capital is used to support the Y’s general mission, a specific centre or a particular program, depending on the donor’s wishes. The fund’s founder provides an amount at the outset, and other donations can be made by people who support the same cause.

Sam Lazarus was a camper, then a counsellor, at camp YMCA Kanawana. As a counsellor, he was loved for his kindness and commitment, and for his extraordinary capacity to inspire and motivate young people.

Sam died of malaria in January 2004 while volunteering in a daycare in Ghana.

To honour his life and spirit, Sam’s family and friends create a Tribute Fund in his name. Each year, the revenues of the fund help less privileged kids come to camp. More than $130,000 has been raised for the Sam Lazarus Fund for Camp Kanawana, through an annual Street Hockey Jamboree and many tribute gifts throughout the year. This way, Sam’s legacy enriches the lives of dozens of children who were able to live the Kanawana experience that marked him so.

The YMCAs of Québec Foundation will ensure that the fund’s founder is kept informed of the donations received and of how the income from the fund is used. The fund will grow from year to year and the founder will see the fruits of his or her gift at work.

A YMCA Tribute Fund is a unique way to celebrate a person or a family while at the same time contributing to the health and well-being of youth, families and the community.

To make a donation or to find out more, contact us at 514-849-5331, ext. 233.

Your donation makes a difference. Thank you for your generosity and support.