Clark and Joan Donnell Pledge $100,000 to Support the Lake Chelan Community Center
"It’s not what you leave your kids in dollars—it’s what you leave them on the inside,” said Clark Donnell. For the Donnells, that legacy includes a stronger, more connected community.
Inspired by a $2 million matching fund, their gift helps to double momentum heading into year-end giving.
Chelan, WA — The Seven Acres Foundation announced today that Clark and Joan Donnell have made a $100,000 gift to support the completion of the Lake Chelan Community Center. Their contribution, inspired by a recent $2 million matching fund offered by Tim and Kristy Turner, will be doubled through the match—helping accelerate progress toward finishing key areas of the facility and reducing existing debt.
“We looked at each other and said, this is the time,” said Joan Donnell. “When we learned our gift could be doubled, we knew it was the perfect moment to act.”
The Donnells, summer residents of the Chelan Valley since the early 80’s and full-time residents since 2020, have been deeply involved in faith and community projects for years. They say the match—and the momentum they see around The Center—moved them from “watching” to “giving.”
“We don’t live far away. We can walk here from our home and we love to bring people to The Vine for coffee. When we do, we see young children enjoying the playroom, moms and families gathering, meetings that support recovery taking place, and neighbors connecting with each other,” said Clark Donnell. “It’s exactly what this community needs. Good project, good timing. We were inspired to give.”
The Donnells’ gift is being made through a donor-advised fund with the Barnabas Foundation, which allows them to plan charitable giving and direct grants to causes they care about. “It’s easy, we trust them, and the money keeps working,” Joan added.
The Turners’ $2 million, 2-for-1 matching fund remains active through the end of 2025, doubling all gifts made to the Seven Acres Foundation—a non-profit organization responsible for oversight of constructing and operating the Lake Chelan Community Center.
“The Donnells’ generosity captures the spirit of this community,” said Brooke Isaak, President of the Seven Acres Foundation Board. “When people see their neighbors give, it inspires others to do the same. That’s how this project keeps moving forward.”
For more information or to participate in the matching opportunity, visit chelancommunity.org or contact Brooke Isaak by email at brookedisaak@gmail.com or by phone at (206) 612-4885
About the Seven Acres Foundation and the Lake Chelan Community Center
The Seven Acres Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a stronger, more connected community through the creation and operation of the Lake Chelan Community Center — a place for recreation, learning, wellness, and connection for all. To learn more or contribute, visit chelancommunity.org.