by Hilary Canty
Special to the Islands’ Sounder
One of the many strengths of the Orcas Island community is our culture of contribution. We have a strong tradition of caring for one another. Keeping that tradition thriving requires that we each get involved. Volunteering builds bridges, connecting us to each other and weaving a strong safety net for the entire community. Often, what begins as your chance to give to others ends with you gaining a great deal as well, both in knowledge and in friendship. Figure out what lights your fire and get connected. The opportunities are countless!
Want to stay young at heart? Surround yourself with kids! Kaleidoscope could use help working on crafts with youngsters in small groups or driving their bus for field trips. Contact Amber Paulson at 376-2484. Montessori, Salmonberry, Children’s House, and Kaleidoscope are hosting a Children’s Festival on August 1 and could use help with everything from set up to clean up, including hosting activities and donations for their yard sale. Contact Eliza Morris at 376-4219. Children’s House would love a volunteer coordinator for their Friends group. Contact Dale Heisinger or Jana Albright at 376-4744.
Interested in staying current with popular culture? The Funhouse is looking for adults to work weekend Teen Nights. Pete Moe will sign you up; call 376-7177. Or be the life of the party at an Orcas Center event. Steve Henigson would be delighted to add you to his cast of event helpers; call 376-6549.
If you like to garden, opportunities are sprouting like weeds! The Animal Shelter, Orcas Center, the Orcas Island School District, and Orcas Island Historical Museum could all use your help. Does technology interest you? The Funhouse and the Museum would love to get you plugged in. If music makes your heart sing, the Chamber Music Festival invites you to join their band of volunteers. They have needs ranging from ticket takers and flower arrangers to ushers and bartenders. Give Victoria Parker a jingle at 376-6676.
Beach combing a favorite pastime? SeaDoc would love to train you for their Marine Mammal Stranding Response Team. Before you touch that baby seal, contact Joe Gaydos at 376-3910.
Want to learn more about Orcas? The Museum would be happy to teach you and train you as a docent. Or learn from our community elders and volunteer with Hearts and Hands. Betsy Louton would love your support; call 376-7723.
Always wanted to be a super hero? Orcas Fire and Rescue will be offering an Emergency Medical Training class in January. This is a remarkable opportunity to gain skills and serve your community. Contact Patrick Sheppler at 376-2331.
No matter what your skills or interest, there is an opportunity waiting for you. Haven’t found your connection yet? Contact the Community Foundation at 376-3423 for more information on opportunities throughout the community and keep our tradition of helping each other healthy and strong.
Share Orcas is a column outlining how the community can help keep non-profits thriving. Hilary Canty is the Executive Director of the Orcas Island Community Foundation.
