Quita and Bill Collins Express Appreciation for the Y Through Their Estate

Fall, 2018

Quita and Bill Collins, each born and raised in Richmond, met on a blind date in college. Their University of Richmond roots run deep. Two of their three children attended UR, and Quita worked for the University for ten years. Bill's career was in the insurance industry. Now retired, they have nine grandchildren—ranging in age from 5 to 20.

Prior to retirement, Quita served as site coordinator for Communities in Schools of Chesterfield (CIS). It was through CIS that Quita was first introduced to the YMCA. She developed a working relationship with the Manchester Y through a partnership with Chalkley Elementary School. The Y served many Chalkley students by providing swim lessons, camp opportunities, after-school tutoring, mentoring, and back-to-school clothing and school supplies through Bright Beginnings. Through this partnership, Quita learned more about the Y and got to know the staff. "I cannot say enough about what an incredible job the staff did. Time and time again, they demonstrated care and professionalism," she says.

Bill began to serve as a volunteer at the Manchester Y and in 2005 was invited to serve on its board. His tenure spanned ten years, including two years as chairman. At this deep level of engagement, he quickly learned how far-reaching the Y programs were. He was impressed by the atmosphere of respect and how the Y's core Christian principles drove its mission and operations. Bill says, "The Y benefits the entire community. It serves as a meeting place—everyone is welcome regardless of circumstances." In his role as a board member, he had the opportunity to engage others in its mission. "I have often described the Y as an oasis within our community," says Bill.

The Collinses deeply appreciate the Y's impact. Having been longtime Y annual donors, when it came time for Quita and Bill to update their wills, they were in total agreement that the YMCA be included among the organizations they wished to remember.

With love and gratitude, we remember the life of William F. Collins who passed away on June 6, 2020.