The Edmonton YMCA Foundation helps ensure stable, sustainable funding for community programming and supports provided by YMCA of Northern Alberta.

Gifts to the Foundation are endowed, which means they are invested in perpetuity. A portion of the investment income (3.4%) is disbursed annually to YMCA of Northern Alberta to fund current and new initiatives. This steady income allows for long-term strategic planning in order to meet the needs of the community. The balance of the income is re-invested to protect the fund against inflation.

Funds are managed by the Board of the Foundation through experienced, knowledgeable Investment Committee members who maintain oversight of the investment policy used by the professional money managers at Adroit Investment Management. Funds are invested following prudent investment guidelines.

Any amount may be contributed to an established fund. The minimum requirement to establish a named endowment is $10,000. An Emerging Fund may be established with a gift of $1,000 and a pledge to build the fund to $10,000 prior to any disbursements being made.

A named endowment can be established by either a current gift or through a deferred gift such as a bequest or life insurance:

Donors establishing a named fund during their lifetime will work with The Edmonton YMCA Foundation to create a Fund Agreement that will ensure their philanthropic dreams are clearly identified.
While not necessary, donors establishing a named fund through a deferred gift are also encouraged to discuss their dreams with The Edmonton YMCA Foundation, and to create a Fund Agreement that will ensure their wishes are adhered to after they are gone.

Alternatively, some donors prefer to endow their gift with Edmonton Community Foundation. Donors may donate directly to The Edmonton YMCA Foundation Fund or establish their own named fund, designating the disbursements to YMCA of Northern Alberta.

Donors are encouraged to consider the needs of their family first and to consult with their advisors to be sure their gift to the YMCA is consistent with overall estate and tax plans.