Dear Arboretum Friends,

As we have all navigated these crazy and challenging times we have come to realize what is truly important to each of us and it is not just the obvious things like essential workers, PPE, and toilet paper, but it is also the refuge provided by our public green spaces like the Yakima Area Arboretum.

Public gardens and urban greens spaces enrich our communities. They are resources for education, recreation, celebrations, connecting with nature, and can also help to soothe our souls during difficult times. Our small staff has worked hard to keep the Arboretum open and safe this past year so our community members could find the peace, physical activity, and mental health relief they have needed to persevere through the pandemic. We have easily seen a 300% increase in daily visitors since March. It is our greatest pleasure to be here for you in both the good times and the bad.

But now we need your help. Due to the impact of Covid-19 and the need to shut down our building facilities and the subsequent loss of their revenue generating ability, we have faced a budget shortfall of over $100,000 in 2020. Please consider making a year-end donation and help us secure the future of this community treasure by donating today, any amount will help, online or by mail.

Thank you for your continued support. From all of us at the Yakima Area Arboretum we wish you and your family a happy holiday season and good health in the coming year.

Colleen Adams-Schuppe
Executive Director