Marley Yott Legacy Fund

On June 3, 2020, we experienced the sudden passing of a dear community member, Marley Yott. At ARCH, Marley worked as one of our “Drop-In Peers”, supporting transgender, non-binary, two spirit, and other people exploring their gender when they came into the office to connect with others in the community. Through our program they supported, referred, and coached individuals to live their healthiest, happiest, and most authentic lives. Marley was passionate community member, and with a huge heart was always there to support whenever anyone was in need.

In conjunction with the Yott family, the tremendous outpour of support from the community, and ARCH, the Marley Yott Legacy Fund was created. Donations to the Marley Yott Legacy Project will support in three ARCH programs as defined by family and friends:

Peer Program – Marley was helped through this program and an active peer. Family and friends would like to see this program to continue to provide service to the community.
ARCH Trans Clinic – Funding for the clinic, specific for nursing support.
Safe Supply – Dedicated funds to support harm reduction and safe supply programming.

A volunteer award, the Marley Yott Caring Hearts Award, was also named in honour of Marley, for their work as long-time peer worker, community leader, and caring heart in our work that we still carry with us. The recipient of this award inspires hope and dignity with compassion and respect and exemplifies ARCH’s dedication to affirming, compassionate and conscientious care.

As we neared the milestone of this loss, the Yott family, ARCH and the Guelph Chamber Choir commissioned a short form documentary to remember and celebrate Marley’s life. “The Giving Tree” tells the story of Marley’s love of singing, their mentorship to other trans people, their passion for knitting, and their unendingly generous spirit. While we mourn the loss of Marley, we also celebrate the quiet inspiration and impact of their life.