In the spring of 2001, shortly after his twelfth birthday, Scott and his family went on a cruise; a gift from Make-A-Wish. Scott enjoyed capturing every event on the family’s video camera. Sometimes he would even add a little commentary. One of the last clips on the video was of Scott turning the camera on himself, and saying “See Ya Later”. Sadly, in May of 2001, Scott passed away and left a huge hole in people’s hearts. At his memorial service he got to tell over 1,100 people via video, “See Ya Later!”

To honor Scotty and his zest and love for life, a memorial fund was started. It was decided that any money donated to the fund would be used to build an indoor playground at the Church on the Hill; the Banke family’s church. Those that knew and loved Scotty envisioned this large new playground being enjoyed by all of the kids in Yamhill County. Just three months after Scotty passed away, the first annual Scott Banke Memorial Golf Tournament began that includes a dinner and auction. All of the proceeds from the golf tournament for the first several years went towards the cost of the playground. The first annual Scott Banke Memorial Golf Tournament was a huge success bringing in nearly $20,000.

Raising the money to build the playground was very important to Scott’s friends and family, but spreading HOPE to others was the main priority. Throughout his entire ordeal, Scott exemplified the faith of a mature and wise adult, never wavering in his trust that his God was in control of his life. Whether he had two months or 50 years left to live, Scott knew that when he passed away he would live his eternal life in heaven, and that those who also knew his God would indeed, “see him later.” So, when it came time to choose a name for the foundation, it was a simple choice - The “See Ya Later” Foundation was born.

Since the first annual golf tournament in August of 2001, the “See Ya Later” Foundation has raised enough money to build the tallest indoor play structure in the Northwest. Hundreds of children are playing on the structure each week. Many weeks, 700 kids have been counted! Families have come from as far as Astoria to have their child’s party at Scotty’s Playhouse. There are many volunteer attendants and the Playhouse staff would welcome others from the com-munity to serve at any of the ‘Open Play’ sessions. All that is required is a background check and a short training session. Other community and private organizations continue to use Scotty’s Playhouse for field trips and events as well as many reserved Birthday parties.

“Scotty’s Playhouse brings families from all walks of life together. Socioeconomic status, religious preference, race and many

other life factors aren’t an issue in Scotty’s Playhouse. What a great privilege it is to be able to offer such a great gift to so many

families.”

Previous Children’s Pastor Chris Collins

 Scotty’s Playhouse is owned and managed by the Church on the Hill, and the “SYL” Foundation appreciates their support in keeping Scotty’s Playhouse a fun and safe place for children and families!