FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: December 2025
Friends of Lake Wenatchee Y Camp welcome the securing of camp’s future
Lake Wenatchee, WA — Friends of Lake Wenatchee Y Camp (FLWYC) has welcomed the Wenatchee Valley YMCA’s announcement confirming that Camp has been saved and secured for future generations through an historic partnership.
For nearly 100 years, Lake Wenatchee Y Camp has been a place where lives have been changed, leadership has been nurtured, and young people have developed character, confidence, and a lifelong connection to nature.
Steve Rolfe, the President of FLWYC says the agreement between the Wenatchee Valley Y and Dean Weidner, CEO of Weidner Apartment Homes, will ensure that Camp’s mission and impact will continue.
“This is incredible news for everyone who loves this camp. Camp has shaped generations of young people, and today’s announcement secures that legacy for the next 100 years.”
“Friends of Lake Wenatchee Y Camp is fully committed to continuing our mission and working hand-in-hand with the Wenatchee Valley Y to ensure that camp thrives as a place of growth, stewardship, and life-changing experiences,” Mr Rolfe said.
Friends of Lake Wenatchee Y Camp was formed in June 2025 to preserve and strengthen the camp during a time of uncertainty.
FLWYC Co-Founder, Bonnie Hilory says today’s agreement marks an important milestone.
“Wenatchee Valley Y’s announcement is a testament to what can happen when people come together with a shared purpose and love for something bigger than themselves.”
“When we helped found Friends of Lake Wenatchee Y Camp, it was because we believed so deeply in what this place means to kids, families, and the broader community. Having the 25.6 acres conserved and protected is such a relief and fantastic news.”
“We are grateful to all those who have been part of this journey, and excited for what lies ahead,” Ms Hilory said.
While awaiting approval from the IRS to become an official 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization, FLWYC has received more than $100,000 in donations and pledges made up of 88 individual donations totalling just over $11,033, and six confirmed pledges valued at $90,000.
“We have been humbled by this show of support. These funds will be used to continue our mission and build a community of supporters, alumni, and friends in partnership with Wenatchee Valley Y,” Ms Hilory said.
Steve Rolfe says FLWYC has been invited to work with the Wenatchee Valley YMCA on the next steps for Camp.
“We are delighted to be asked to support the Wenatchee Valley Y’s efforts to build a successful and sustainable Y Camp.”
“We look forward to continuing our close and collaborative partnership to support the long-term success of this camp – importantly, honoring its legacy and preparing young leaders for the future,” Mr Rolfe said.
For more information:
Steve Rolfe
President
(425) 652 2316
[email protected]
Bonnie Hilory
Co-Founder
(206)612 7002
[email protected]
BACKGROUND
Friends of Lake Wenatchee Y Camp is a newly formed organization dedicated to preserving the legacy and continuing the mission of Lake Wenatchee Y Camp.
The organization represents nearly a century of campers (including outdoor education, rental groups, family camps, and work party participants), Y staff, volunteers, board and committee members, and community members (from the lake and surrounding areas) whose lives were transformed by their experiences in the Cascade Mountains of Washington State.
Our objectives are to:
• Develop a business model to ensure sustainable operations, stewardship of funds raised and continued positive relationships with stakeholders.
• Preserve the 98-year history of Lake Wenatchee YMCA Camp in digital format.
• Engage Alumni of Camp, with reunions (virtual or in-person), which will have a service-oriented project identified.
• Raise funding and distribute proceeds to organizations who operate outdoor environmental education and recreation experiences.
• To facilitate the transition of the Lake Wenatchee YMCA Camp to a future in which it continues to enhance the lives of youth and families and remains accessible to all, regardless of income status.
CONNECT WITH US
Click here to receive updates on FLWYC and to get invitations to events, retreats, and fundraisers.
Website: https://friendsoflakewenatcheeycamp.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2166304420478807/
Instagram: @friendsoflakewenatcheeycamp
YouTube: @FriendsofLakeWenatcheeYCamp
Donation link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/save-lake-wenatchee-y-camp-act-now