Scott was introduced to the YMCA as a teenager, watching his Dad dedicate the time necessary to get the Chilliwack YMCA established, and learning the importance of being involved in community from both his parents. Years later Scott’s daughters attended the Y pre-school, and through the years he’s come to appreciate the value of the Y through its impact on his family and the community around him.

Scott recognizes that while visitors to the YMCA may first see a gym and a pool, the Y is so much more. He says, “It’s about early childhood development and giving kids the opportunity they need to thrive. It’s a place to meet and grow, a place that’s about seniors getting the services they need.” It was these important services and the impact on his community that sealed the deal for Scott to make his contribution to the What Really Matters Campaign.

For Scott, recognizing his parents through his gift was important and he was able to honour the work they did with the YMCA and many other charities in Chilliwack by naming The Entrance Portal & Lobby – In honour of Dick and Barbara Bate in the new Chilliwack YMCA. Scott shares that their work in community helped create the wonderful and connected community that is Chilliwack today.

Scott was also a WRM Chilliwack Cabinet Member, volunteering to bring the Y story to others. When sharing his reasons for donating Scott says he would get emotional, thinking back on his Y experiences and knowing that the new Y would be there to create great opportunities for more families, for generations to come.

The YMCA thanks the Bate family for their years of sharing their time, talent and treasure to ensure generations of families thrive in Chilliwack.