Local non-profit Youth Experiential Training Institute (Y.E.T.I.) capped off a banner year in 2023, shattering its own records for outdoor adventure outings and reaching more South King County youth than ever before.

This surge, spurred by unwavering community support and a growing network of program partnerships, paves the way for an even more ambitious 2024.

“What a year!” exclaimed co-founders David Dunphy and Noah Harper in a year-end message to supporters. “Thanks to the countless hours of support from our Y.E.T.I. community, we’ve seen an incredible amount of growth in 2023.”

The numbers speak for themselves:

146 outdoor trips: A record high, offering diverse experiences like hiking, biking, climbing, paddling,fishing, snowshoeing, and camping.
8 school clubs: Bringing Y.E.T.I.’s programming directly into school communities across King County.
Over 400 students served: A 50% increase compared to 2022, providing transformative outdoor experiences to a wider range of youth.
Over 1,000 student days: More time spent exploring nature, building confidence, and forging friendships.
6 program coordinators and instructors: A dedicated team guiding Y.E.T.I.’s expansion and ensuring quality experiences for participants.

Beyond the statistics, 2023 saw a flurry of accomplishments that fueled Y.E.T.I.’s mission:

A dedicated new staff and volunteer team: Bringing fresh energy and expertise to Y.E.T.I.’s programs.
A successful #TRUCKYEAH fundraising campaign: Securing a new vehicle to facilitate further outdoor adventures.
An influx of grants: Providing crucial financial support from entities like No Child Left Inside, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, and King County Parks.
Expansion into new schools and communities: Partnering with institutions like the Tukwila and Highline school districts to reach diverse youth populations.
Increased overnight trips and specialized programs: Offering deeper wilderness experiences and fostering specific interests like fishing and mountain biking.
Resilience in the face of challenges: Overcoming a setback like a break-in and demonstrating Y.E.T.I.’s commitment to its mission.
Stronger partnerships with local organizations: Collaborating with housing groups, youth programs, and outdoor advocacy coalitions to amplify Y.E.T.I.’s impact.

“Y.E.T.I. couldn’t have achieved any of this without the incredible support of our community,” emphasized Dunphy and Harper. “We’re incredibly grateful for every volunteer hour, donated dollar, and kind word. It fuels our passion and drives us to keep pushing the boundaries for outdoor access in King County.”

As Y.E.T.I. sets its sights on 2024, the possibilities are endless. “We can’t wait to get out there with everyone again,” concluded Dunphy and Harper. “Who knows what new adventures and partnerships await? One thing’s for sure: Y.E.T.I.’s commitment to connecting youth with nature and building well-rounded individuals remains unwavering.”

To learn more about Y.E.T.I. or to donate, please visit:

https://goyeti.org

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