For nearly two decades, local nonprofit Youth Experimental Training Institute (Y.E.T.I.) has worked tirelessly to provide accessible outdoor adventures for hundreds of young people.
But now Y.E.T.I. is facing a $200,000 budget shortfall after state grant funding was eliminated last year, according to the organization. The loss represents about 30 percent of its operating budget.
Despite the funding gap, Y.E.T.I. has continued its work, providing more than 200 outdoor trips for over 370 students during the current school year, with additional programming planned this spring.
“We know that young people should be afforded time in nature for all of its benefits, and that need doesn’t change with shifts in grants,” Executive Director David Dunphy said. “Despite this cut, we decided we were not going to reduce our programming. We believed our community would help us like they have so many times before.”
The organization, which has operated in the community for nearly two decades, provides outdoor experiences for youth across South King County, including Burien, Kent, Des Moines, SeaTac, Tukwila and surrounding areas.
Support from the community has increased in response to the funding loss, including more volunteers leading trips, new monthly donors and additional funding from the King County Parks Levy and family foundations.
During spring break, volunteers took time off work to assist staff, allowing Y.E.T.I. to run two simultaneous multi day trips for the first time in recent history.
Local businesses have also contributed to fundraising efforts. Bywater Sauna recently hosted a fundraiser, and Grayl Water Filters is organizing a raffle event to support the nonprofit.
“Businesses, family foundations, and individuals are helping us bridge the gap,” Dunphy said.
Movie Night Fundraiser will be Thursday, April 30
Y.E.T.I. will host a movie night fundraiser on Thursday, April 30 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. as part of its ongoing efforts to raise funds and sustain its programs.
Click Here for Tickets or More Info
About Y.E.T.I.
Have you heard of Y.E.T.I.? And no, we are not talking about a cooler company! For 15 years, Y.E.T.I. has worked in South King County with young people to access their public lands through free outdoor adventures. After-school clubs, partnership programs, field trips, and weekend outings, complete with food, transportation, equipment, and instruction, make it possible for the next generation to benefit from the physical and mental health benefits of time outside. ALL AT NO COST TO THE YOUNG PEOPLE!
Learn more at https://goyeti.org
Photos
Click arrows or swipe images to view slideshow of photos courtesy Y.E.T.I.:
Middle schoolers spring break – kayaking at Lake Fenwick. 
Middle schoolers spring break – student bike at King County Black Diamond open space. 
Middle schoolers spring break – students take a break from their restoration project at Lake Sammamish State Park. 
High School Spring Break – Students pose for picture at Smith Rock State Park in Oregon. 
High School Spring Break – Students climbs while a volunteer belays.
