Whatcom Young Professionals Hosts Community Fundraiser: “Back 2 Skool”

3rd annual community fundraiser benefits Blue Skies for Children in 2025

Whatcom Young Professionals (WYPs), a program of the Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce, is proud to announce its third annual community fundraiser, Back2Skool - an evening dedicated to giving back, building connections, and making a difference, happening on Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025 from 5:30-8pm. This year’s fundraiser comes with a nostalgic twist, inviting community members of all ages to relive their elementary school days, all while raising funds for Blue Skies for Children - a nonprofit that supports homeless, low-income, and foster youth in Whatcom and Skagit Counties.

Blue Skies for Children has been providing essential programs and services to local youth since 1997. Their mission: "To raise hope and self-esteem by sponsoring enrichment programs and other essentials for homeless, low-income and foster children in Whatcom and Skagit Counties."

The “Back2Skool” fundraiser will be held Wednesday, September 3rd from 5:30 to 8pm and is open to all ages, with a raffle, games, food trucks, 21+ beer garden, and more. The event will be held at the Squalicum Boathouse.

“We’re thrilled to be this year’s beneficiary,” said Caprice Teske, Executive Director of Blue Skies for Children. “Community fundraisers like this are essential for small grassroots nonprofits like ours—they not only provide critical funding but also help raise awareness of the children we serve and the impact of our programs. Whatcom Young Professionals is a perfect partner in this effort, bringing together passionate, community-minded individuals who are committed to making a difference right here in Whatcom County.” 

With the fundraiser happening at the start of the 2025-26 school year, the event will not only be raising funds for Blue Skies for Children, but will also be a supply drive to support their Back2School Essential Needs program.

Tickets are available at an early bird rate of $15 through August 3rd when the cost will increase to $20. Learn more and purchase your tickets now at WhatcomYP.com