Y kids and community have been exploring the great Pacific Northwest since 1906 at the YMCA of Greater Seattle’s first camp, Camp Orkila. Spending time outdoors at Camp Orkila is a tradition that generations of families have built together – a legacy filled with a lifelong love for the natural world around us. Now, those traditions are expanding to more families! 

The Y has officially closed on purchasing the 9.8-acre Curtis property at the eastern boundary of Camp Orkila. The Curtis property acquisition, along with the acquisition of the Beebe property in 4Q2022, is a foundational investment that helps secure our service to youth and families for generations. This investment allows us to continue to expand our footprint and build our capacity to bring the health benefits and development experiences of the great outdoors to all youth and families, especially those who need us most. 

Curtis Property at Camp Orkila

Imagine... hurtling across a zipline, overcoming a fear of heights, and solidifying new friendships in the process. The purchase of the Curtis Property will allow for more. More staff to serve more youth and more fun for all. The Curtis property is inland and offers the opportunity to relocate the camp maintenance unit from the center of the camp, thus repurposing that space for new and innovative programming for generations to come.   

What’s Needed to Complete These Property Acquisitions?

With the support and flexibility of the property owners, the Y has executed agreements to purchase these properties with payments made over time, which allows the Y to fundraise. The Y has not been immune to the ramifications and devastating impacts of the pandemic, economic downturn, and rising costs. We will need continued community support and investment in our shared vision to bring these opportunities to fruition.  

We cannot do without you. We invite you to join us in support of this generational opportunity. We hope you can continue walking alongside us. Consider making a capital gift to help cover the debt service for this acquisition and invest in scholarships for outdoor education and camp programs. 

For more information, contact Drew Schilson at donate@seattleymca.org.