‘Capturing Magic in a Bottle’ at the YMCA

As Terry and Stan Freerks visit national parks across the country, they stop by local YMCAs to swim. Their shared passion for aquatics is one reason they’ve been Gateway Region YMCA members of nearly 25 years—and donors for most of that time.

The Freerks praise the many services the YMCA offers for people at all stages of life. With a focus on education, wellness and skill-building, Stan observes, the YMCA is making kids and adults into better citizens.

“We are fans of so many things the Y does,” Terry says. “They are capturing magic in a bottle.”

The Freerks are particularly appreciative of YMCA staff, whom they describe as compassionate, collaborative and proactive.

“The Y takes care of people while moving them forward,” Terry adds. “It’s expansive and it’s nurturing.”

In 2019, the Freerks joined the Lamplighter Society by including the Gateway Region YMCA in their will. Two years later, as their financial situation improved, they increased the amount of the bequest significantly.

“Once you get started, it builds on itself,” Stan says. “You see how good you feel. The rewards are fantastic.”

The Freerks enjoy knowing that the resources they’ve worked so hard to earn over their lifetimes will make a positive impact after they’re gone.

“We know the YMCA will be good stewards of our contributions,” Terry says. “They will continue this work long past us. You sleep better at night knowing that.”

Bequests offer donors like the Freerks the flexibility to adjust their legacy amount as financial circumstances change. To learn more about making a bequest—or increase your current gift—contact Wendy Cornett-Marquitz, CFRE at 314 436 1177 ext. 21640 or wendy.cornett-marquitz@gwrymca.org.