Transformational gift will expand mental health services
When Erin Shagren and Monica Names-King were little girls, they watched as their grandparents, Scott and Sis Names, grew their sporting goods business and their philanthropy. What began as a little athletic equipment store in Pierce County in the 1950s transformed into a multi-generational commitment to youth and community.
The girls’ parents, Tom and Meg Names, also fiercely dedicated themselves to community causes, always maintaining their focus on health, wellness and young people.
“Our parents lived the way they wanted us to live, giving back at all times because they wanted to, not because they had to,” remembers Monica.
As longtime donors to many different educational and health-related organizations, the sisters pondered the best way they could make an impact through Go BIG! for Washington. They were interested in increasing student-athlete access to mental health services and reducing the stigma around it.
“You can touch someone’s mind, heart and soul with mental health care,” explains Erin. “Kids face so many pressures today, and it’s tough to cope as an athlete, a student, a human being.”
“A lot of people donate money so the Huskies will win, and it’s great to give to all those causes,” Monica adds. “We want the student-athlete to win as a whole person. Their mental health is an integral part of their lives.”
A $2.5 million gift from the Tom and Meg Names Family Foundation, along with generous funding from other donors, will enable UW Athletics to hire more therapists and counselors, expand services, and serve as a model of mental health services for the entire NCAA.
And the legacy continues. Erin and Monica say they hope the Foundation’s gift serves as an example to their own children and to other Husky fans.
“It’s not about us. It’s for the future. It’s to help student-athletes be their best while they’re at the UW and then be mentally ready to move on after sports,” Monica states.
