Where is it written that you have to be a certain age before you start giving back to your community? Is there a time of life when "The Lightbulb of Charity" gets turned on, magically trasforming one into a "Philanthropist?"
Jesse McDaniel Licht doesn't see it that way.
Jesse views the concept of giving in the same manner other generous people do; share whatever you have at the age you happen to be. It is a concept that rarely emanates from the mind. Mostly, it happens in your heart.
At 22, Jesse had just graduated from college, and accepted his first professional position at a firm in Seattle. To sweeten the deal, his new employer offered him a signing bonus, which, considering the expense of moving from California to Washington (first and last months' rent, damage deposit, utility fees, etc.) would make the move more manageable.
So what did Jesse do first? The usual. He asked his dad about some ways he could enrich the lives of others through a charitable gift.
On the advice of his father, he contacted YVCF board member Marvin Sundquist, whose family has a long and lustrous record of giving to the community. Marvin shared the two things: his knowledge of how the Yakima Valley Community Foundation works, and, more importantly, the merit of putting the values learned at home into practice. He suggested that Jesse give John Colgan, YVCF President, a call.
On Memorial Day weekend, Jesse went to the foundation office. In less time than it takes to open a bank account, he created the McDaniel-Licht Fund, which, he explained, honors "both sides of my family." His contribution of $2,500 shaped an (Evolving) Donor Advised Fund, which means Jesse has two years to contribute the additional $2,500 necessary for a named fund within the foundation.
Why did he select Yakima Valley Community Foundation?
Said Jesse, "I want to give back to the community that supported me when I was growing up. This foundation allows me to be involved in decision making, and will help me stay connected to Yakima throughout my whole life."
Thank you, Jesse, for your example of charity, and for choosing Yakima Valley Community Foundation as your partner in mapping a charitable pathway.