December 11, 2007 - An estate gift of $375,000 willed to Ambrose University College by the late George and Ila Young will be directed toward the funding of an eighty-student classroom and a student lounge in the residence. Proceeds will also fund a youth ministry scholarship in their memory.

When children Bill, Brad, Diane, Marilyn and Shirley and grandchildren Beth and Tim, met to decide how to direct the bequest to the school, they had a number of ideas relating to the interests and involvements of their parents.

George and Ila Young were long-time members of Calgary First Church of the Nazarene. Bill describes much of their ministry as "behind the scenes." However, they were very supportive of youth and children's ministry. Ila taught Sunday School to the 4 and 5 year olds for more than 15 years, and George was known to the youth for many years as "Grandpa George." Both were also involved as leaders in the Caravan mid-week children's program for many years. The Young's commitment to their church meant frequent and long trips from the family farm, just west of the new campus in Springbank. Many youth remember hayrides and other activities out at the farm.

The family has a long history with Ambrose. Ila (Guynup) attended the Canadian Nazarene College high school in Red Deer in 1946. Bill attended Canadian Bible College in Regina and Diane Canadian Nazarene College in Winnipeg. Presently, grandchildren Tim Young, Beth Gripping, and Teresa Gripping are enrolled at Ambrose.

George and Ila's love for young people will live on through their bequest to Ambrose. The classroom, student lounge and scholarship named in their honour, are a fitting tribute to these faithful servants of Christ.

Contact: Kim Follis Director of Annual Giving
Phone: 403.410.2927
Email: Kfollis@ambrose.edu