Friends of Lake Wenatchee Y Camp elects board, launches fundraiser

LAKE WENATCHEE — Friends of Lake Wenatchee Y Camp, a newly formed organization working to preserve the nearly 100-year-old camp property, has announced its first board of directors and launched a GoFundMe campaign.

“This is an extraordinary moment for Lake Wenatchee Y Camp. The dedication of these directors and officers gives me confidence that we can carry forward the camp’s legacy and ensure its future for generations to come,” said organization co-founder Bonnie Hilory, in a press release.

The group represents multiple generations of staff, volunteers, campers, and community members who were compelled to intervene when the Wenatchee Valley YMCA announced its plans to sell the 25-acre property after the 2025 summer camp season. 

Founded in 1926, the Lake Wenatchee Y Camp has provided youth development and outdoor education for nearly a century. However, the YMCA said that the camp was facing mounting financial challenges, with capital and operating losses totaling more than $2 million over the past decade. YMCA officials also cited over $10 million needed in necessary upgrades.

The Friends of Lake Wenatchee Y Camp is working to secure the camp’s future through several potential pathways: purchasing and operating the property as an independent nonprofit, running it under a state land lease if the park acquires the land, or partnering with other like-minded organizations to manage it collectively. If the camp is sold to a developer, the group says it would shift focus to supporting outdoor education and camping opportunities at other locations.

The group’s first steps have been to obtain nonprofit status, beginning with the formation of a board of directors. According to Friends of Lake Wenatchee Y Camp, the election for the inaugural board drew more than 130 people casting ballots, far surpassing the group’s initial participation goal. 

Thirteen members were selected for the board: Curtis Stine, Marge Chapa, Ross Hankins, Devan McElravy, Austin McElravy, Chris Palmer, David Palmer, Tony Hillock, Theresa Cmelik, Steve Rolfe, Isaac Duncan, Kaleb Roberts, and Ella Tschetter.

Steve Rolfe, a business owner with 60 years of camp involvement, was elected board president; Theresa Cmelik – nurse, former camper, and Waterfront Director – was appointed to the vice president role. Clerk and former Assistant Camp Director Ella Tschetter will serve as the treasurer, with Marge Chapa – customer service technician and former cabin leader – as secretary.

“The overwhelming support from our alumni and friends community is proof of the strength of our shared bond. I am honored to serve alongside this talented group of directors as we work together to protect and celebrate the camp we all hold so dear,” said Rolfe, in a press release.

Following the formation of the board, the group announced the launch of a GoFundMe campaign, which has a goal of $5 million. According to organizers, the campaign is designed to accept gifts under $1,000 to provide immediate support for the organization’s work; Hilory is the direct contact for pledging larger gifts.

The group also announced plans for a Lake Wenatchee Y Camp Alumni Weekend Sept. 19-21. Organizers say the weekend will celebrate traditions, strengthen community ties, and lay the groundwork for ensuring the camp’s long-term future.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media