About The Fund

Tom Cardamon was a talented musician and photographer who especially loved children, animals and art. A single father, he was devoted to his only child. Tom’s son, Noah, was a visual artist who died suddenly in 2005 after being hit by a car while riding his bike home from work. Although he tried valiantly, Tom never truly recovered from the loss of his beloved son. His work at the Southeast YMCA Child Development Center brought him some measure of comfort and satisfaction and he shared touching, charming stories with his family about his days there. Tom passed away without warning on March 4, 2017.

Tom’s sister, Lisa, has established the Cardamon Fund as a lasting tribute to her brother’s passion for enriching the lives of children in our community. The purpose of the fund is to help remove economic barriers so that families who require a little extra assistance have access to before and after school enrichment programs at the Southeast YMCA Child Development Center.

This fund awards up to $5,000 annually to families with the greatest need at the Southeast YMCA Child Development Center where Tom worked. Scholarships will be awarded based solely on financial need.

The YMCA believes all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve under the guidance of caring adults who believe in their full potential. We welcome your applications.

Fund Contributions

Scholarship awards are determined by financial need and school referrals. Those wishing to donate to the fund should note that on their gift at the time of donation.