2024 GIVING GUIDE by Skagit Publishing

Chinook Enterprises: Supporting full participation in community life for people with disabilities or other barriers

Chinook Enterprises

Year established: 1980

2026 N LaVenture Road., Mount Vernon 360-428-0140

www.chinookenterprises.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/chinookenterprises.getjobs/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/chinook_enterprises/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/3573568

Chinook Enterprises is unique among non-profits in that it is designed to operate as a business, but with a social mission: supporting full participation in community life for people with disabilities or other barriers in the belief that

full participation must start with successful employment.

While the national employment rate hovers around 60 percent for the general population, for individuals with disabilities it is much lower: between 23-37 percent. Washington is a nation-

al leader in competitive integrated employment outcomes for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and Chinook helps over 70 percent of the individuals it supports to maintain employment at an average wage of $17.05/hour.

Chinook Enterprises was founded in March 1980 by Rob Martin through a grant from Skagit County. The company’s original focus remains today, placing people with disabilities into competitive employment. The non-profit partners with government agencies to perform outreach and deliver comprehensive support services to qualified job seekers, encom-

passing job placement, training, retention, and community inclusion services. In 2023, Chinook played a pivotal role in assisting more than 230 job seekers, guiding them through the entire employment process—from discovering opportunities with excellent employers to seeking, trying out, securing, and sustaining employment.

Chinook Enterprises receives funding from the Skagit County Developmental Disabilities Administration program, but its social enterprise model funds two-thirds of all programming costs through its award-winning Production/Manufacturing & Assembling division and

Grounds Maintenance division. The organization’s customer/ partnership base is vast, from local businesses and educational institutions to large corporations and government contractors. Local businesses contract with Chinook to maintain their landscaping or to manufacture and assemble products; government agencies partner with the non-profit to provide support services to qualified job seekers, and employers utilize its services to find stellar employees.

Chinook Enterprises is operated by a staff of 60 employees under the guidance of CEO Nikki Wegner and is governed by a 10-member volunteer board of directors. As the organization approaches its 45th birthday, it plans to scale up its offerings and increase employment participation for more individuals, with a goal of raising $45,000 to help fund building/infrastructure improvements including a new computer server and additional workstations as well

Chinook Enterprises

as staff training and fleet vehicle purchases.

Chinook Enterprises’ longterm goal is to diversify its funding streams and add additional business lines to its Production and Commercial Landscaping divisions to support employment service expansion to neighboring counties.

To reach its fundraising goal, Chinook Enterprises is offering a number of sponsorship and donation opportunities. Along with donations (which are applied to direct costs associated with Community Employment Services) referrals to an employer, job seeker or businesses looking to outsource their landscaping or manufacturing/assembly needs are welcome, as these further the non-profit’s ability to champion a more equitable and empowered workforce.

In 2023, Chinook Enterprises’ efforts resulted in 26 individuals gaining new job opportunities, sustaining a 6-year average employment period. During

2023, its customers worked an average of 10.5 hours per week, earning a total of $398,000 in wages. Having served over 6,230 people in the community since opening in 1980, Chinook remains dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those it serves. You can support its mission by donating through its website. Chinook also of-

fers diversity training to local businesses at no-cost utilizing Advocacy Specialist, David Wiler. You can also join an in-person tour of Chinook’s facility to learn more about how it helps people live more productive and fulfilling lives by striving to gain competitive employment as well as inclusion in the community.

Family Promise wraps community around family homelessness

Family Promise of Skagit Valley

Sponsored by Stiles & Lehr, Attorneys at Law

P.O. Box 335, Sedro-Woolley

360-854-0743

www.familypromiseskagit.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ FamilyPromiseofSkagitValley

This year in America, more than 2.5 million children will experience homelessness. As part of a nationwide program with over 200,000 volunteers, Family Promise of Skagit Valley began its mission of ending homelessness for families with children in 2012, when Sedro-Woolley pastor Laurin Vance, who had been part of a Family Promise Network in another state, decided that the organization’s

model would be an effective way to mobilize local churches and communities to address the more than one thousand children who at that time were homeless in Skagit Valley.

Since opening its doors to homeless families in 2015, Family Promise of Skagit Valley strives to serve more than 185 families annually through housing and homelessness prevention services. Causes of homelessness

vary among families — from loss of employment to medical emergencies or substance abuse — but trauma of some kind is an underlying issue. “We look at families as individuals,” says organization fundraising assistant Amber Lang. “What we’ve created is a program that helps reduce the trauma of homelessness for children while keeping the family together to find their best path forward.”

Family Promise teaches its clients ways to “end poverty mindsets,” but as executive director Audrea Woll emphasizes, “We never try to change a person’s beliefs as to what a home or a family looks like.” The program

helps families in crisis address their primary needs and identify roadblocks to meeting them. “We help them reduce that trauma mindset and get their lives in order,” says Woll. When families do find themselves unhoused, Family Promise responds through a shelter program that utilizes local churches on a rotating basis. As families progress on their journey out of homelessness, Family Promise operates a multi-level housing model that enables clients to move up out of shelter and into second and then third stage housing. At second stage, families pay a small program fee and live with other families, while in

Family Promise of Skagit Valley

third stage housing they typically live with just their own family and pay a market value rental rate. A demonstrable impact of the Family Promise approach is that more than 80 percent of families sheltered find homes.

Key to Family Promise’s success is its cadre of staff, volunteers, and donors. The organization currently has 14 employees and between 200250 volunteers throughout the Skagit Valley and is actively seeking seasonal shelter staffing and volunteers. “The logistics of our program start with training our staff to be trauma informed,” Woll explains. “Families in trauma can find it hard to move forward, and thanks to our volunteers’ many points of connection in our valley they can wrap community around each family.”

Even after families have moved into permanent housing, Family Promise offers “graduate services,” so anyone who has graduated from their programs can continue to receive services.

“Our approach is unique in that when we bring a family in we maintain a relationship with them — sometimes for years. Our goal isn’t just to get them off the street, but to stabilize them,” Woll says.

Family Promise has not relied on government funding historically. In the wake of the pandemic, however, the organization has had to rely more heavily on government support due to the growth in need in Skagit Valley communities. The organization is now gearing up for a fund raising effort aimed at keeping its focus on the number of lives impacted by the stability and growth of its programming. Its most urgent need is for seasonal shelter supplies and gift cards that can be used as motivational rewards for its families as well as for Christmas gifts and more practical needs like gas, groceries, and clothing. Its longer term goal involves a three-phase effort to secure land with the potential for 6-10 transitional

cottages, as well as purchasing its longest standing transitional home. Family Promise would also ultimately like to have a day center to serve its educational programs and other operational needs.

Through continuing community support, Woll hopes to broaden her organization’s reach and impact. “We are currently serving approximately 30

families at a time, not including our seasonal shelter,” says Woll. By the end of 2024 we plan to have served a minimum of 185 families. At the core of our mission and beliefs is that every child deserves love, a stable place to live, an education, and an opportunity to dream about what their future may be without worrying about where they are going to live.”

Skagit Friendship House Reflects the Heart of God as it Works to Empower and Heal the Local Homeless Population

Skagit Friendship House

Sponsored by: Judd & Black Year Established: 1986

1002 S. 3rd St., Mount Vernon WA 98273

360-336-6138

www.skagitfriendshiphouse.org www.facebook.com/skagitfriendshiphouse www.instagram.com/skagitfriendshiphouse/

Since its founding in 1986, Skagit Friendship House has helped thousands of community members struggling with homelessness, growing into the largest provider of homeless services in Skagit County. Their work goes beyond addressing

food insecurity and the shortage of affordable housing, offering a broad range of services to help people regain stability and rebuild their lives. “We serve individuals and families experiencing homelessness, food insecurity, and other hardships in

Skagit County, including veterans, people with disabilities, and victims of domestic violence. We believe that everyone deserves dignity and respect, and we work to foster a sense of community and support for each individual we serve. Every donation and volunteer hour makes a real difference in the lives of

those experiencing hardship in Skagit County,” shared Executive Director, Jonathan Kline. Friendship House is a place where people struggling with homelessness can find support to reenter society. Their unique approach focuses on turning a personal crisis into an opportunity for empowerment and selfsufficiency by offering a “hand up”, not just a handout. While Friendship House provides essential help like shelter, meals, clothing, and other necessities, they also offer job placement support and addiction and mental health resources; giving people the tools they need to rebuild their lives. Jonathan explained, “We aim to create lasting change by not only meeting

Skagit Friendship House

basic needs but also helping individuals and families develop the skills needed for sustainable independence.”

Skagit Friendship House began as a grassroots effort, launched by a group of local churches who saw a growing need in the community and decided to take action. They came together to start a shelter, initially focused on providing meals and temporary housing for Skagit County’s homeless population. Over the years, the organization has grown to offer a wider range of support services, including emergency shelter, transitional housing, daily community meals, and life skills support. The organization is led by Executive Director Jonathan Kline, alongside 23 other employees (11 full-time and 12 part-time) and works with 75 dedicated volunteers.

The Friendship House makes an immediate, impactful difference by sheltering an average of 80 homeless people each

day, providing meal service that helps reduce the food insecurity in the county, and by helping to keep people warm and dry through the cold and wet months with the winter shelter program. “Our work has helped reduce homelessness and empowered many individuals to achieve stable, independent lives,” said Kline.

Skagit Friendship House stands out as Skagit County’s only low-barrier shelter, meaning that it accepts individuals who may be facing challenges that other shelters might restrict. “This approach enables us to provide support to some of the county’s most vulnerable residents who might otherwise struggle to find safe shelter. Additionally, we offer both emergency shelter and a behavior-based transitional housing program, combining immediate relief with long-term support to help clients develop skills for self-sufficiency,” explained Kline. Funding and strong commu-

nity partnerships are essential to the success of Friendship House. The organization relies on support from individual donations, grants, local government funding, and partnerships with foundations and other community groups. Around 92% of donations to Skagit Friendship House go directly to support programs and services for the community. The charity is always looking for volunteers for its meal programs and general shelter support (please visit www.skagitfriendshiphouse.org/volunteer.html to sign up), as well as donations of hygiene products, clothing, and non-perishable food items.

Skagit Friendship House

is currently working toward expanding the capacity of its emergency shelter and providing more workforce development training. Long-term, Friendship House aims to secure sustainable funding to increase affordable housing options and enhance programs for lasting impact. To learn more about the charity, please visit www. skagitfriendshiphouse.org. To make a donation, please visit www.skagitfriendshiphouse. org/financial-gifts.html or mail a check to PO Box 517, Mount Vernon WA 98273.

As you gather with family and friends this holiday season, please remember Friendship House. We welcome those who would other wise be hungr y, cold, and alone. Last year we ser ved 40,000 meals and provided housing, basic needs, and compassion to thousands.

Please open your heart and send a generous donation today : Friendship House, PO B ox 517, Mount Vernon, WA 98273. You may also donate online at www.skagitfriendshiphouse.org.

Helping Seniors Live

Nourished Lives with Independence and Dignity

Skagit County Meals on Wheels/Skagit Council on Aging

senior centers around the county in Anacortes, Burlington, Mount Vernon, and Sedro-Woolley. There, volunteers package each meal individually before volunteer drivers deliver them to customers. Frozen meals are also available on weekends for those who request them.

Skagit County Meals on Wheels is committed to enhancing clients’ physical, emotional, and social health, which also extends to families. Daily check-ins and friendly hellos give family members and caregivers peace of mind that their loved ones are safe and cared for.

With the aging population, the demand for meals and wellness checks grows each year. Skagit Meals on Wheels is already limited by space in its central kitchen and urgently needs a larger facility to meet the current and future needs of the community. “We need more funding to build a new central kitchen,” says Nelson, “and we are always looking for volun-

teers for both kitchen workers and delivery drivers.”

Skagit County largely funds this program along with a small portion from cities/towns. Skagit Meals on Wheels also relies on support from the Skagit Council on Aging, community donations, and private contributions to keep its services running. Every dollar donated goes directly back to the program, helping provide meals and wellness checks to those who need it most.

Visit marchformeals.org to learn more about the organization. You can support Skagit Meals on Wheels by volunteering or donating (scan the QR code).

Every donation and volunteer hour helps Skagit Meals on Wheels continue its mission— because every senior deserves a meal, a friendly visit, and the chance to live safely and independently.

Skagit County Meals on Wheels

The Meals on Wheels Program provides hot, nutritious meals to senior citizens, age 60 and older, who have difficulty leaving their home unassisted and are unable to prepare their own meals.

$3,028

Amount the Co-op and its shoppers donated to Meals on Wheels on 4% Friday in 2024.

Skagit Valley Neighbors in Need has provided food, help and hope for more than 50 years

Skagit Valley Neighbors in Need

P.O. Box 394, Mount Vernon 360-982-2089

https://svneighborsinneed.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/svneighborsinneed

No one likes to think of their neighbors as being food insecure, but a fact of life in Skagit County is that more than a third of its residents rely on food banks to feed their families. Of the several such non-profits in the county, the oldest is Skagit Valley Neighbors in Need. Founded in 1972, it is also the second largest food bank in the region, serving approximately 2,500 households per month (nearly 8,500 individuals) — a

number that has risen by more than 1,000 households over the past two years.

Every Tuesday from 11am to 6pm, Skagit Valley Neighbors in Need distributes needed food supplies to an average of 550 families. Last year the total amount of distributed food reached nearly 1,400,000 pounds.

In addition to its weekly food distributions, the non-profit also operates several other pro -

grams. Mobile Food is a supplementary program for people who are unable to come to the food bank during regular distribution hours due to a medical condition or disability. With two routes that alternate weeks, this vital service is sponsored by the Puget Sound Energy Foundation.

Skagit Valley Neighbors in Need also works alongside local school representatives to support its Backpack Program, which provides low income children who struggle with food insecurity at home on the weekends with essential food to ensure that they come to school fed and ready to learn on Mondays. Every week, Skagit Valley Neighbors in Need

makes two breakfasts and two lunches of easy to prepare food for kids along with snacks and treats that are given out every Friday. Last year, the non-profit handed out more than 4,000 bags of food through this program. This year that number will double.

To meet the food needs of its communities, Skagit Valley Neighbors in Need relies on a number of partnerships. These include programs such as Food Lifeline, Northwest Harvest, and the Washington State Department of Agriculture. Since the pandemic, however, the budgets for these programs have decreased along with food

Hunger casts a shadow over our community. In the last few years we have seen exponential growth in those needing our services, especially among vulnerable populations.

Skagit Valley Neighbors in Need

stamp and unemployment benefits — further exacerbating the need for additional food resources. Skagit Valley Neighbors in Need currently sees between 30 and 40 new sign ups for its services each week. As a result, says operations manager Paige Davis, the organization has had to increase its spending to make up the shortfall in available food. “This week we had to spend about $2,000 to $3,000 to buy food, and our backpack program runs around $500 a week depending on donations from stores. We are constantly planning on how to meet all these needs, since the trend won’t go down.”

To bridge a growing disparity between needs and resources, Skagit Valley Neighbors in Need is doing something that it has never previously done in its half century of existence: it is launching a year end direct mail campaign to solicit donations, for which it has previously relied on its website’s “donate”

button to generate. “Our goal is to raise $50,000 so we can have enough funds in the new year to support our backpack and emergency food programs as well as some general operating expenses,” says Davis. Even reaching half that goal would be helpful, she notes, since every donation of $3 can buy up to 100 pounds of food.

In addition to monetary donations, Skagit Valley Neighbors in Need hopes that its outreach efforts will attract new volunteers. With a paid staff of only four employees, the organiza-

tion relies on its more than 40 volunteers to respond to the 80 to 90 clients per hour that come through its door on distribution days. Thanks in large part to the leadership of director Steve Fox, Davis describes her organization as a “well oiled machine” that makes people feel welcome, whatever the circumstances that brought them there. “We try so hard to make our place inviting, especially when people come here for the first time,” Davis says. Thanks to its volunteers, Skagit Valley Neighbors had the distinction

of being the only food bank in the county to never miss a food distribution day during the recent pandemic. But as its volunteers age, the organization hopes to attract younger folks with fewer physical limitations.

“There’s a lot of satisfaction in helping people provide food for their families,” Davis said. “We don’t want anyone in our community to have to tell their kids that there isn’t enough to eat because they have to pay the rent.”

New Earth Recovery offers healing through connection

New Earth Recovery

Year Established — 2011

PO Box 1473 Mount Vernon

www.nerecovery.org

Facebook — www.facebook.com/nerecovery.org/

New Earth Recovery serves adults who seek a structured, faith-based recovery program for drug and alcohol addiction, supporting medication assisted treatment and partnering with many local agencies including Drug Court, Catholic Community Services, Sunrise and Compass Mental Health, Didgwalic Wellness Center, Skagit County Detox, and inpatient treatment facilities statewide. As a nonprofit Christian organization, New Earth Recovery operates under the philosophy that deep emotional healing is needed to live a life of recovery.

New Earth Recovery has the distinction of being the only long-term residential recovery program in the Skagit region, and those who enter it receive housing and a variety of support services such as mentorship, community integration, life skills, and recovery support.

New Earth Recovery grew out of co-founders Alan and Amy Muia’s experience as volunteer chaplains at the Skagit County jail, and their realization through that experience that people needing intensive and wholistic support for their recovery efforts would thrive best in a home en-

vironment. In 2011, they established New Earth Recovery and opened Faith House, a women’s entry-level home. In addition to Faith House, the non-profit currently operates five other recovery homes in Skagit County with a staff of eight that includes four program graduates. The other recovery homes are Willow House (for women), and The Foundation, The Trust, Hilltop House, and Cedar House (for men).

More than stable housing, New Earth Recovery offers close staff accompaniment, structure and accountability, a relapse prevention program, and encouragement in faith. The effec-

NOEL Concert

tiveness of its approach is manifest in the accomplishments of its residents. Of the 68 who were served in 2023, 23 found employment or attended college, 32 restored relationships with their families, 8 regained their driver’s licenses, and 40 reported starting or deepening their faith journeys. At the foundation of New Earth Recovery is The Genesis Process, a faith-based relapse prevention process for finding healing from the root wounds and traumas that contribute to addictive and destructive patterns. At the heart of Genesis is the question, “Why do I do the very thing I don’t want to do?”

7 pm • Friday, Dec. 6, 2024

The group and individual journeys involved in The Genesis Process shed light on “stuck” patterns, help them move toward their fears, connect them with God and others, and offer lasting change.

One of the resources available to residents of New Earth Recovery is The New Earth Recovery garden, “a place of community, laughter, connection, and healing for bodies, minds, and spirits.” Residents participate in seasonal gardening activities depending on their recovery phase and current hours of employment.

New Earth Recovery is funded primarily through individual contributions and is also supported by Skagit County Public Health, grants from regional foundations, and program fees paid by residents. Monetary donations are always needed and appreciated, and more than 85 percent directly support resident needs and recovery program participation. New

New Earth Recovery

Earth Recovery encourages the community to learn more about its mission and programs, along with opportunities to support it, through its website, and to share its contact information with anyone who is struggling with substance use disorder.

Visit www.NERecovery.org to learn more about its mission, programs, opportunities to support the organization, and contact information for anyone who is struggling with substance use disorder.

For the fifth year in a row, New Earth Recovery will host the acclaimed Noel Harp Ensemble in a musical benefit. To experience the magic of a Celtic harp Christmas, the public is invited to attend the concert on Tuesday, December 6 at 7:00 pm. The performance will take place at Bethany Covenant Church, 1318 S. 18th Street, Mount Vernon. Freewill offerings are encouraged.

The NOAH Center is building a “pawsitive” future for homeless dogs and cats

The NOAH Center

Sponsored by Hansen’s Furniture Year Established: 1988

31300 Brandstrom Road, Stanwood 360-629-7055 www.thenoahcenter.org https://www.facebook.com/thenoahcenter

Since its establishment on Camano Island in 1988, the staff and volunteers of The NOAH (Northwest Organization for Animal Help) Center have dedicated themselves to ending the euthanasia of homeless cats and dogs through family-friendly pet adoptions, humane education, and high-quality spay and neuter programs available for lowincome residents. NOAH opened its current facility in Stanwood in 2003.

To date, The NOAH Center has facilitated the adoption of more than 56,000 pets and performed about 156,000 spays/neuters.

As impressive as these numbers are, the demand for its services continues to grow in proportion to the number of dogs and cats who are abandoned annually.

To meet this demand, the nonprofit has embarked on a capital campaign to vastly increase its

surgical capacity.

In addition to its low-cost spay/neuter services, The NOAH Center also operates a pet adoption program that involves roughly 200 foster families. “We are a limited admissions shelter,” says Bradshaw. “This means that we do not euthanize any animals that come through our doors. We arrange our animal intakes according to available space — and we push that limit a lot.”

The NOAH Center currently has fewer than 50 paid staff between its clinic and shelter operations, augmented by some 500 volunteers including its foster families. So far this year the organization has taken in more than 3,500 animals, of which

“Our surgical clinic was originally designed to perform around 2,500 spays/neuters a year,” says The NOAH Center’s operations director Sara Bradshaw, “but thanks to the efforts of our medical staff and volunteers we are currently completing around 9,000. With the completion of our new facility in early 2025 we plan to increase that number to 15,000 a year by 2030 as we expand our staff and funding.”

The NOAH (Northwest Organization for Animal Help) Center

two-thirds to three-quarters are cats (mostly kittens). As a “transfer in only” facility, The NOAH Center partners with more than 100 shelters throughout Washington, and on occasion takes in dogs from out of state through services such as Project Freedom Ride, Wings of Rescue, and Greater Good. It also has the distinction of being one of the largest neonatal adoption programs in the country, with nearly 17,000 neonate adoptions to date.

Since the The NOAH Center’s adoption fees — which range from $75 to $450 depending on the pet type and age — are not enough to cover its costs of care, the non-profit relies entirely on donations for its funding. The organization’s current capital campaign, aimed at the completion of its new, thoughtfully designed and state-of-the-art high-volume spay and neuter clinic, stands to receive a significant boost through the upcoming Giving Tuesday event on

December 3. “We have a donor who has pledged $150,000 towards a matching fund drive on that day,” Bradshaw explains. “There will be periods during Giving Tuesday when we have triple matching, so anyone who would like to support our efforts at ending the euthanasia of dogs and cats should tune into our Facebook page and videos on December 3. Every dollar donated will at the very least be doubled.”

Besides cash, Bradshaw points out, volunteers are always needed, especially during weekdays. “We have an amazing volunteer corps, and we’re extremely grateful for every hour they can give to us.” Volunteer opportunities include basics such as facilities maintenance, laundry, clinic work, animal handling, preparation and distribution of food and medicine, and fostering. “Our volunteers have donated over a million hours of

their time since our inception,” says Bradshaw. “There are so many ways to help advance our mission besides cash. You can even purchase tiles to commemorate a loved one — human or pet.”

To learn more about opportunities to stop the euthanasia of healthy, adoptable, and treatable homeless dogs and cats, visit the The NOAH Center website at thenoahcenter.org.

The NOAH Center is working to end the euthanasia of healthy and adoptable pets. We believe that the companionship of a furry friend is priceless and we are here to help make it a possibility for all. We have saved the lives of over 54,000 homeless cats and dogs, matching them with their forever homes and provided spay and neuter surgeries for almost 155,000 pets. We’re making a difference for animals in need and their families.

The Salish Sea School inspires a deeper connection with nature for kids of all ages

The Salish Sea School

P.O. Box 1901, Anacortes

360-230-8018

https://www.thesalishseaschool.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSalishSeaSchool

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesalishseaschool/

The Salish Sea School envisions a world where every community feels a deep connection to its local ecosystems. Through exploration programs for all ages, the school sparks curiosity and strengthens bonds with the sea. Founded in Anacortes by former high school biology teacher Amy Eberling, the nonprofit was born out of her desire to transform how science is taught. “I wanted to break down

the walls and bring science to the best classroom possible — the outdoors,” Eberling explains.

The walls first came down in 2020 with a summer program called Guardians of the Sea — a combination of marine science and conservation that would establish a model for the many programs to follow over the next four years. “We believe that one has to experience things in order to have a desire to protect

them,” says Eberling. “Since that first program we’ve expanded to elementary, high school, and adult programs, and a cornerstone of our mission is to bring underserved students out on local beaches at no cost.”

Four years into its existence, The Salish Sea School now offers an incredible variety of field trips, summer camps, after-school programs, and ecotours. These programs fall into seasonal groupings. These include summer camps that serve kindergarten through high school students with curricula that spans the ecosystem: water quality, intertidal zones, marine birds, orcas and more.

“During the school year we offer field trips to bring kids onto local beaches or boats to introduce the same concepts we cover during the summer camps,” Eberling says. “We partner with a variety of organizations to serve a wide range of students, writing grants and finding donations. It’s that first intertidal exploration or that first chiton they discover that can bring the magic alive. Even if they don’t pursue a career in marine science, understanding the importance of preservation or just picking up their trash knowing that it runs into the river and then into the sea can make a big difference to the environment.”

As parents discovered the magic their children were experiencing through The Salish Sea School, it was no surprise that they began clamoring for programs as well. Eberling’s organization has responded to that demand through a wide variety of ecotours and educational programs designed just for adults. “We believe learning never stops, and kids of

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Experience the magic of puffins, marine wildlife, and guided San Juan Island hikes led by expert naturalists. Your ticket supports free shore and sea experiences for underserved students.

all ages enjoy learning about intertidal creatures, orcas, and endangered tufted puffins,” Eberling says. “Our ecotours are designed to bring ALL people out on the water to learn about the Salish Sea, and help study its creatures through data collection that furthers our understanding of them.”

Participation in The Salish Sea School has increased dramatically since its founding, with some 3,000 individuals of all ages taking part in its programs last year. In addition, the organization has handed out around $20,000 in scholarships each year, enabling outdoor experiences in the tens of thousands of hours through funding from grants, donations, and events. The non-profit has benefited as well through the generosity of state and local grants and donations from community members. Additionally, ticket sales from adult ecotour programs also further The Salish Sea School’s goal of making its programs affordable, if not free,

The Salish Sea School

for kids who would otherwise be unable to participate.

As important as community support has been to The Salish School, Eberling cites her staff as a cornerstone of its success, and their bios on the organization’s website underscore their talents and commitment. “They all have amazing backgrounds, and they are the happiest and best people I could ever surround myself with,” Eberling says.

Eberling and her team at The Salish Sea School bring their mission to life, a passion clearly conveyed through the powerful testimonials and captivating photos on the organization’s website, which are worth a visit on their own. “We’ve had the privilege of witnessing kids touch sand and feel the wonder of orcas, shells, and bull kelp, all for the very first time,” Eberling shares. We also teach about the endangered Southern Resident orcas and their family groups, creating a personal bond — and as all of our participants

learn each orca’s name and explore local beaches, we hope their dedication to protecting all marine life deepens.”

Many kids in our community lack access to the Salish Sea.

Your donation today will help us continue to offer free shore and sea adventures to young learners.

Photo credit: The Salish Sea School

S.P.O.T. envisions a Skagit Valley where all pets have forever homes

S.P.O.T. (Saving Pets One at at Time)

Sponsored by All About Hearing Year Established: 1999 (non-profit status in 2000)

PO Box 211, Burlington 360-336-5388 www.savingpetsoneatatime.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SPOTBurlingtonWA

With the objective of increasing dog and cat adoption options in Skagit County and beyond, a group of animal lovers got together in the Fall of 1999 and started a non-profit alternative animal rescue and placement organization appropriately named Saving Pets One at a Time (S.P.O.T.). By increasing the options for animal adoption, S.P.O.T. hopes that more companion animals will find loving and permanent homes while insisting

that all animals placed in its care are spayed or neutered.

Rather than operate a shelter facility, S.P.O.T. relies on a network of foster that provide a safe haven for unhoused animals until they can be placed into a permanent home. The foster homes are carefully screened to ensure that proper care and a loving environment will be provided during the animal’s stay.

“S.P.O.T. is very firm in its policy that all animals are spayed

or neutered prior to placement within a home,” says the organization’s president, Nina Spitler. “This policy is essential in helping to reduce the number of homeless pets within our community. In addition, all cats are tested for Feline Leukemia (FeLV) and Feline Aids (FIV) prior to being placed. Adoption fees include the spay/neuter operation, feline testing where applicable, vaccinations, parasite control, an ID tag, microchip and a free vet check-up at participating veterinary clinics.”

Over the past few years, S.P.O.T. has become increasingly concerned about the number of cats and dogs that are being

During our Holiday Event December 10th through 12th a portion of every hearing aid purchased will be donated to SPOT.

We are proud to sponsor our neighbor and friend.

surrendered by owners. Local shelter and rescues are turning pets away due to lack of space. This is reaching a critical point in Skagit Valley communities as well as statewide. “The free-roaming cat population in our communities is another indicator of this over-population,” Spitler notes. “It is very disheartening to see litters of kittens scrambling for food scraps and crossing busy city streets. There is not an acceptable quick solution for this problem, but another of our goals is to work on collaborative solutions for spay and neuter of free-roaming cat colonies.”

The success of S.P.O.T.’s out-

S.P.O.T.

(Saving Pets One at at Time)

reach program is possible due to dedicated volunteers and the support of local businesses. The non-profit helps as many cats and dogs as it can, but its focus is not volume but rather quality of life. Many of the pets it takes in need some kind of veterinary assistance and inhome care to regain their health. “These cats and dogs are usually lovely, lovable pets by the time they leave us,” says Spitler. “Adopters often express how grateful they are for their cat or dog and how much joy it brings into their lives. Making the connection of a loving home for a pet that in turn enriches the lives of the people who adopt it is the reward of rescuing.”

While cash donations are always appreciated, S.P.O.T.’s greatest need is for additional foster homes. The organization’s website includes a surrender process and an application form that helps place pets through PetFinder. The process starts with placement criteria for the

desired dog or cat, which is then followed by an interview and a “meet and greet” at the nonprofit’s Burlington headquarters. S.P.O.T.’s website and Facebook page are instrumental in featuring animals that are looking for a “forever home.”

Although its services are primarily directed toward the Skagit Valley, S.P.O.T. also takes in animals from other Washington counties as its resources allow. As part of its outreach efforts, S.P.O.T. works with local government agencies to educate communities on issues such as the increase in feral city cat populations.

To learn more about donation and volunteer opportunities with S.P.O.T., visit the non-profit’s website, which also serves as an excellent resource on area shelters and rescue organizations, as well as providing practical tips on pet adoption and ownership. But be prepared to experience a serious tugging on your heartstrings. As Spitler warns, “Although people

worry about falling in love with an animal they have fostered and then have to place, it’s a very fulfilling situation to see an animal become a cherished pet and fulfill the needs of other people.”

SAVING PETS ONE AT A TIME

The mission of our all-volunteer organization is to provide the Skagit Valley with an alter native method of car ing for and adopting companion animals.

Bringing Peace to Families and Caregivers with 32 Years of Compassionate Dementia and

Alzheimer’s Care

Skagit Adult Day Program

Year Established: 1992

116 N. Skagit St., Burlington WA 360-755-1235

www.skagitadultdayprogram.org www.instagram.com/skagitadp/ www.facebook.com/skagitadultdayprogram

The roots of Skagit Adult Day Program (SADP) go back to 1992, when Nancy Gentry, Dr. Winnie Bradford, and Kim Dooley founded the program to meet a growing need for dementia care in the Skagit area. By 2005, SADP had its own dedicated facility in Burlington named Bradford House in honor of Dr. Bradford. In 2009, Gentry House was opened in

Anacortes.

Skagit Adult Day Program (SADP) has served the Skagit community for more than 30 years, improving the lives of adults living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. With a mission to deliver high-quality compassionate care in a structured and safe environment, SADP provides a supervised, daytime program where adults

with special cognitive needs can participate in a group setting. Clients experience companionship, interaction, and personal attention that meets their needs, along with activities and individual contact designed to stimulate socialization in an effort to help them age in place.

The number of seniors with dementia is now larger than ever and Skagit County is disproportionately impacted with the highest proportion of elders of any Washington State County. SADP is a unique Northwest non-profit that provides a five day/weekday program, which welcomes adults with dementia

to socialize with their peers; participate in memory wellness and therapeutic exercise. Research demonstrates that music therapy improves cognition while reducing anxiety. Music is a key element in the SADP daily program. Supported by a staff of six, with access to a registered nurse, clients also enjoy a delicious home cooked lunch each day.

With their loved one in a safe, stimulating environment, family caregivers have respite from the all-consuming physical and emotional stress that results from the pressures of their responsibility. They now have time to address their own needs; such as medical appointments, household chores, coffee with friends, naps or just time to unwind.

SADP is committed to providing group support three times a month to all caregivers. Hosted by Burlington Senior Center, caregivers meet on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. to share their stories, learn from each other,

April 5th, 2025

Skagit Adult Day Program

and bond with others on their difficult journey. On the last Monday of the month, SADP provides a community Lunch & Learn event from noon to 2 p.m. All community caregivers are invited to share a free lunch and to interact with a guest speaker or discuss the media presentation offered. There is strength in community.

With very few regional resources to draw upon, rebuilding from the pandemic, and high inflation, there is significant difficulty in finding affordable care for those in need. SADP works hard to keep rates as low as possible to ensure that low to moderate income families have access to services at Bradford House.

“As a non-profit, we rely mostly on grants and fundraising events to fund our program. Community sponsors willing to invest in Skagit Adult Day Program are needed. Donations are always welcome.” shared Jan Taylor, Board President. “In-

house supplies and volunteers for fundraising events are also greatly appreciated.”

Approximately 85% of SADP’s revenue goes directly to client services and operations. Looking ahead, Skagit Adult Day Program’s short-term goals are to maintain financial stability, to welcome more clients, and to increase dementia awareness within the community. Long term, SADP is looking to increase community support, upgrade the Bradford House facility, and build/re-open Gentry House to serve the Anacortes dementia community.

To learn more about Skagit Adult Day Program or to make a donation, please visit www. skagitadultdayprogram.org. Even the smallest bit of support brings peace and quality care to the families who need it most.

Skagit County Historical Museum Celebrates

56 Years of Preserving & Sharing Skagit County’s Unique Cultural History

Skagit County Historical Museum

Historical Society founded in 1959, Museum built in 1968 PO Box 818 · 501 S 4th St., La Conner WA 98257 360-466-3365

www.skagitcounty.net/Museum www.facebook.com/SkagitCountyHistoricalMuseum

The Skagit County Historical Society preserves and presents the county’s unique heritage for the enjoyment and education of all, serving as the leading source for the understanding of Skagit County’s unique history. The Skagit County Historical Museum (SCHM) preserves and presents the history of the

county through exhibits and educational programming –always maintaining high standards for ethics and accuracy. Students come for docented tours of the Museum and Skagit City School Experiences at the historic Skagit City School. For adult education, the Museum offers Skagit Topics, Topics @

the School, and a Speaker’s Bureau that is available to speak at retirement communities, community clubs, or any gathering.

SCHM Director, Jo Wolfe, said, “The Skagit County Historical Museum serves the people of Skagit County and enjoys strong and diverse community support. When locals come in for a tour, they are often amazed at the stories we have to share.” The Museum in La Conner houses three galleries of exhibits, including two rotating exhibit spaces. In the East Gallery, visitors will find the main, featured exhibit which changes three times per year. There is also a small rotating set

of showcases featured in the North Gallery that change five times per year. At the Skagit City School on Fir Island, the Museum hosts a variety of speakers and full-day school age programs known as SCS Experiences.

The idea for the Museum was sparked by the Skagit County Pioneer Association president at a Pioneer Picnic in the 1950s when he suggested that “someone” needed to start preserving Skagit County’s history. In 1962, a group of county citizens formed the Skagit County Historical Society in order to collect and preserve the history of the pioneer settlers in Skagit

Skagit County Historical Museum Presents:

Wick Peth: “The Original Rodeo Bullfighter” and the History of Rodeo in Skagit County

Photo by Jerry Gustafson

Skagit County Historical Museum

County. Later in the 1960s, they raised money to build the Museum in La Conner and the building was completed in 1968.

The Museum currently has 37 volunteers and employs seven people (one full-time position) along with one part-time intern. The majority of the exhibits are created by Museum staff. The Museum is always looking for volunteers to handle a wide range of tasks, including docents to give school tours, collection care, tending the front desk, and promotion.

Museum staff and volunteers are currently working on several important projects and goals, including:

Completing a comprehensive inventory of the estimated 450,000 artifacts, and ensuring they are properly documented in PastPerfect Museum Software

Re-invigorating the history trunk program

Developing a five and 10-

year maintenance plan and comprehensive energy plan

Getting into a financial position to increase staff hours or provide benefits

Cleaning up storage areas

Eventually getting the archives collection - diaries, documents, and more - digitized

In 2024, with the help of generous support from members and donors, the Museum was able to fully fund and install a fire detection system.

The funding to operate the Museum comes from memberships, donations, and support from Skagit County. Donors should know that 100% of donations are applied to the Museum’s operating expenses, staff, and facilities. The Museum needs to raise $60,000 for general expenses and facility repairs in 2025.

If you would like to donate to the Skagit County Historical Museum, you can visit their website (scroll down to the donate button on the home page),

drop off a donation in person, or mail in your contribution.

The Museum also accepts donations of Skagit specific artifacts, stories, documents, etc. for its collection. If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact Jo Wolfe at jwolfe@co.skagit.wa.us for more information.

Jo says, “We have worked hard to preserve and present the unique heritage of our amazingly diverse community.

We work with a wide variety of community partners to help tell their story. If you have a story or object that reflects Skagit history, please share it with us; if you want to learn more about Skagit’s unique history, please visit us.” The Museum is open Thursday – Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Information about exhibits and events can be found at www.skagitcounty. net/Museum.

Skagit Gleaners offers a transition from food pantry to grocery store

Skagit Gleaners

1021 Riverside Drive, Mount Vernon

360-848-1045

https://www.skagitgleaners.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skagitgleaners

glean: to collect gradually and bit by bit; to gather (leftover grain or other produce) after a harvest

Skagit Gleaners started in the 1980s with a family picking food from farm fields in Skagit County that farmers were unable to use, then bringing that surplus to a central location to be shared with other families. In 1988, Skagit Gleaners was established as a non-profit with a mission of food recovery and rescue that serves the twin goals of feeding families

through an affordable alternative to grocery stores while practicing environmental stewardship by keeping food out of the landfill and thus reducing CO2 emissions.

Over the years since its founding, Skagit Gleaners’ food sources have expanded beyond local farm fields. “We still do hand harvest gleaning from farms, backyard orchards and gardens and community gardens, but we also tap into larger sources such as grocery stores, restaurants, big box

retailers and distributors,” says Morgan Curry, a Skagit Gleaners spokesperson and professional non-profit advisor.

“We glean from all the schools in the Mount Vernon School District as well, and we do these activities seven days a week, 365 days a year. We bring all that food back to our facility in Mount Vernon and at the end

#GivingTuesday is coming up! Donate by December 31 to double your impact. A donor who cares about this cause is matching gifts up to $5000!

of the year when we add up all the food that we’ve gleaned through our various sources we are are able to keep 1.5 million pounds of food out of the landfill in Skagit County alone.”

In addition to a food market that allows members to shop up to three times a week (families typically receive up to 40 pounds of groceries), Skagit Gleaners also rescues and redistributes clothing and houseware items through its Gratitude Galleria program, which is included as a membership benefit. Members can shop in the Gratitude Galleria an unlimited number of times a week.

Members of Skagit Gleaners contribute a minimum of 3.5 hours/month of volunteer time to the organization. Most members also contribute a shared

#GivingTuesday

nominal donation to the organization that covers rent and utility costs. The cooperative model empowers a communityled system fueled by active participation, and for some it plays a vital role in bridging disparate gaps in the journey from a food bank participant to a grocery store consumer. Although its service area is primarily Skagit County, Skagit Gleaners welcomes folks from Whatcom, Island, and Snohomish counties as well.

“People often assume that we are a food bank,” Curry notes. “I describe us as a community centric system. It doesn’t matter what your social or economic status was outside — as soon as you step inside we all contribute. It’s the only organization where I’ve seen school principals work alongside migrant farm workers sorting through food and doing the exact same work.”

During the Covid-19 pan

Skagit Gleaners

nessed an urgent need for access to affordable food as prices in grocery stores spiked. Since then, constrictions to the federally funded Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) have further exacerbated that need. In response, Skagit Gleaners now follows a mass distribution model through which food surpluses are made available to community food banks. “Our whole mindset is to have an attitude of gratitude and to work collaboratively as a community, so we don’t hoard…we share,” says Curry. Over the past couple of years the organization has also created targeted programs to make sure the underserved are being served, which also distinguishes its model from that of typical food banks.

Historically, Skagit Gleaners has not needed to solicit funding from outside its membership, but the non-profit is in the early stages of developing a five-year capital campaign to

purchase land and build a new facility to replace its original venue. “We’re growing out of our space,” Curry says, “and we also have dreams of ultimately cultivating some of our own food as we lean into our community centric model of growing food and using what is available.”

Those who would like to become members of Skagit Gleaners or donate toward its efforts can do so through the non-profit’s website, www. skagitgleaners.org.

Nearly 40 percent of food produced in our nation goes to waste, with CO2 emissions from food waste remaining the third largest source of greenhouse gas emissions.

Skagit Land Trust is on a Mission to Conserve Skagit’s Natural Lands & Waters for the Benefit of Future Generations

Skagit Land Trust

Year Established: 1992

PO Box 1017 · 1020 S. 3rd St., Mount Vernon WA 98273 360-428-7878

www.skagitlandtrust.org/ www.facebook.com/skagitlandtrust www.instagram.com/skagitlandtrust/

Skagit Land Trust started 32 years ago with the mission to conserve wildlife habitat, agricultural and forest lands, scenic open spaces, wetlands, and shorelines for the benefit of our community and as a legacy for future generations. The Trust accomplishes this by working

with our community to acquire, protect, and care for treasured lands and waters across Skagit County.

Skagit County is a nexus for people and nature – people choose to live here because of the area’s striking beauty and natural diversity. Skagit Land

Trust conserves all types of natural lands and waters across the Skagit. The Trust’s Conservation Areas can be found in ecologically important spots from the Cascade River to the Anacortes Community Forest Lands, to the shoreline of Samish Island, to the top of Guemes Mountain. Skagit Land Trust plays a crucial

role in safeguarding irreplaceable places for the wellbeing of fish, wildlife, and local communities.

Skagit Land Trust’s 10-person staff and 18-person Board of Directors work with over 400 volunteers, 1,500 members, and over 40 partner organizations, including tribes, businesses, schools, public agencies, and

private landowners. Some of the Trust’s most successful conservation projects have protected habitat areas across private ownership boundaries, helping residents, ranchers, farmers, and businesses to join a wider protection network. With help from its members and partners, the Trust now protects over 10,000 acres and nearly 50 miles of river and marine shoreline across the Skagit.

To encourage ongoing community involvement in conservation, SLT participates in dozens of school programs and community events on Trust properties and beyond each year. By inviting local schools and groups out to enjoy the lands under the Trust’s care and stewardship, Skagit Land Trust hopes to plant the seed of a conservation ethic in the next generation.

This year, the Trust is partnering with the Mount Vernon Parks & Enrichment Department’s “Explore Outdoors”

Skagit Land Trust

program by providing plant and animal field guides to local youth. Each time a donor contributes $120 to SLT on Giving Tuesday, a field guide will be donated to the Explore Outdoors program. This is a great opportunity to support two organizations working to connect and educate our community on the importance of natural spaces.

Every year, including this fall and winter, Skagit Land Trust hosts several public events for the community to enjoy. A bird-walk and family-friendly bird activities will be offered on Trust Conservation Areas in celebration of OptOutside on November 29th. On December 15th, a holiday wreath-making event will take place at the Trust’s Samish Island Conservation Area. In January and February, SLT will host a series of swan-viewing events at its Barney Lake Conservation Area in Mount Vernon. You can also connect with SLT at a native-

plant-luminary-making workshop that the Trust will host this winter, in advance of Mount Vernon’s Illuminight Walk on January 31st. Skagit Land Trust’s website provides additional information about these events and more. Scan the QR code below or go to www.skagitlandtrust.org/

Skagit Land Trust’s funding comes from a combination of

donations from individuals, businesses, and grants. Anyone who makes a gift to the Trust becomes a member. Please visit our website to donate. If you are interested in volunteering or you would like to donate, sell, or protect land with the Trust, please reach out to info@ skagitlandtrust.org or call 360428-7878. www.skagitlandtrust.org/

Skagit Symphony: celebrating 45 years of musical enrichment

Skagit Symphony

Your

ONE STOP SHOP FOR SHOES, CLOTHES & MORE.

who have attended one of its School Concerts as fifth graders. They’ve been offering these educational and entertaining introductions to the instruments and music of the orchestra for 15 years!

The orchestra currently rehearses on Monday evenings at the Mount Vernon Church of the Nazarene. This year Maestro Wheatley is preparing the ensemble to perform several concerts at McIntyre Hall telling the story of “Timeless Elements: Earth, Air, Water, and Fire,” taking audiences on a journey of the senses to experience the elements as they never have before. The concert season ends in June with the “Skagit Pops!” concert of the Wild, Wild West! For programs, dates, and times of the wonderful musical adventures ahead, go to skagitsymphony. com.

In addition to developing online educational materials to support its youth-friendly concert experiences, Skagit Symphony

Skagit Symphony

has created an array of offerings through its website that provide even more music education resources to students, teachers, parents, and learners of any age. These include “Adventures with Beethoven,” “History of the Piano,” and “Meet the Orchestra.”

Managing the organization are two full-time and three parttime employees, as well as more than 100 volunteers. 66% of Skagit Symphony’s income goes directly to program funding, but since performance ticket sales only cover approximately 33% of the organization’s budget, funding from many other sources is needed to deliver the incredible guest artists and programming the Skagit Valley has grown to love. The symphony’s biggest expense is the children and family concerts, which they offer at low or no cost.

Skagit Symphony is an orchestra of volunteer musicians bringing exceptional musical performances to the Skagit Valley area. Skagit Symphony aims to

fill McIntyre Hall at every concert, bring talented professional musician guest artists, and collaborate with diverse organizations to further the reach of orchestral music in Skagit County, grow its audience, and show the community how passionate and engaging classical music can be.

Skagit Symphony is currently looking for volunteers with computer skills or marketing experience. Skagit Symphony

always welcomes musicians in the community to audition for the orchestra. Those interested in either opportunity are invited to https: www.skagitsymphony. com/join-our-team to volunteer or https://www.skagitsymphony. com/auditions if interested in joining the orchestra. Financial donations can be made online (https://www.skagitsymphony. com/donate), at the office, or by calling 360-848-9336.

Skagit Valley College Foundation Transforms

Skagit Valley College Foundation

Year Established – 1978 (College 1926)

2405 East College Way, Mount Vernon

360-416-7870

www.SkagitFoundation.org

www.facebook.com/SVCFOUNDATION/ www.instagram.com/skagitvalleycollege/

The SVC Foundation is dedicated to supporting Skagit Valley College (SVC) and its students by raising funds for scholarships, emergency aid, childcare assistance, program funding, and capital projects. Their mission is to reduce barriers for all students, with the goal of transforming lives, strengthening the workforce, and enriching the community. As Skagit Valley College approaches its centennial, it looks

forward to celebrating 100 years of educational impact and expresses gratitude to the community for their ongoing engagement and commitment to SVC students. This milestone honors the college’s legacy as the second oldest community and technical college in Washington and its role in transforming lives and strengthening the region’s workforce.

The Foundation is dedicated to ensuring that Skagit Val-

ley College students have the resources they need to overcome challenges and reach their goals. “We understand the barriers students face in their pursuit of education,” says SVC Foundation Executive Director Kathleen Petrzelka. “SVC is committed to meeting students where they are and supporting their journey toward a brighter future for themselves and their families.”

For over 46 years, the Foundation has helped thousands of students at SVC secure family-wage jobs, thanks to generous community support.

With an endowment exceeding $23 million, the SVC Founda-

tion awards over $1 million in scholarships annually, supporting more than 500 students each year with scholarships, emergency funds, and childcare assistance. The Foundation manages over 200 scholarships, providing vital support to ensure students have the resources needed to succeed in their education.

Founded in 1978 by Dr. James Ford, then-president of SVC, the SVC Foundation is one of Washington’s oldest community college foundations. Dr. Ford envisioned a way for the local community to support the college and fulfill their philanthropic goals by investing in students’ futures. Today, a 14-member volunteer Board of Governors and over 100 community volunteers assist with scholarship reviews, events,

Skagit Valley College Foundation

and community engagement, ensuring 100% of donations directly benefit students.

“Support for the SVC Foundation changes lives for students, their families and our entire community,” says Petrzelka. “Our immediate focus is helping students meet rising costs for essentials like food, rent, and childcare, allowing them to stay in school without interruption. Long-term, we’re dedicated to supporting SVC’s growth and regional economic needs by

funding scholarships, expanding programs, and investing in infrastructure and equipment.”

To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.skagitfoundation.org or call Kathleen Petrzelka at 360-416-3229.

To make a donation, visit the SVC Foundation’s donor form at https://www.mysvc.skagit. edu/foundation_giving_form.

asp or mail a gift to Skagit Valley College Foundation, 2405 E College Way, Mount Vernon, WA 98273.

Triumph Teen Center meets teens where

they’re at

with encouragement, enrichment, and support

Triumph Teen Center

Sponsored by Sound Cedar Lumber 2121 E College Way Unit B, Mount Vernon 360-755-3267

www.triumphtlc.org

Triumph Teen Center was founded in 2022 in response to a growing need for increased after-school support for local teens. Triumph believes that after school support is not simply a luxury but a necessity, and that family income should not be a determinant to its access. All of its programs are completely free of cost.

“We serve families in our community who are dedicated to the success of their kids, but

who would otherwise have limited access to quality afterschool support,” says executive director Silvia Alvarez.

Alvarez speaks from the authority of her own experience, which has infused the philosophy and programs of Triumph Teen Center. She arrived in Vista, California from Mexico at three years old. Lacking adequate employment, her mother’s options were limited. By extension, her children’s

options were limited as well. Without the necessary support to overcome an overwhelming language barrier, severe ADHD, and dyslexia, Alvarez’s childhood was a challenging one, and graduating high school seemed like an impossible feat. As the “troubled kid,” she was encouraged instead to lean on employment instead of academics. Which is why at only 12 years old, Silvia joined the workforce.

Despite these obstacles, Alvarez was determined to succeed, and that determination led to her graduation from high school six years later, and to a career as an early learning edu-

cator who now owns and oversees three early learning centers. Her “triumph” fueled her desire to create a place where every teen can experience their own — a place where teens can flourish regardless of their circumstances and surrounded by mentors that believe in them.

“At our Triumph Community Resource Center, our mission is to empower and uplift the BIPOC (black, indigenous, people of color) community through comprehensive programs and services,” says Alvarez. “We are dedicated to fostering a supportive environment that champions inclusivity, education, and advocacy. Our goal is to bridge gaps, cultivate opportunities, and enhance the overall well-being of individuals and families within the Skagit Community.”

Triumph Teen Center offers kids of any socio-economic background access to a wide variety of enrichment programs and support services in a safe place and at no cost. There is a rec room where they can unwind with games, TV, mu-

sic, and other forms of shared entertainment. “I wanted our kids to have a space where they can hang out with each other and enjoy a snack and share their day with us,” says Alvarez. Students also engage in “build up” activities that incorporate games and conversation designed to strengthen empathy and self-esteem. There is an art studio where they explore different ways of creative expression, and a garden where they can raise vegetables or enjoy an outdoor setting in which to do their school work.

Another component of the Triumph Teen Center’s programming is its daily workshops, where members of the community are invited to come and share stories with kids or introduce them to new skills. There is a certified counselor on staff to work privately with kids on issues confronting them, and the center also has a full-fledged music studio where teens can compose and

Triumph Teen Center

produce music that their music coach can share with others via the cloud. A dance studio offers movement styes that include K-pop as well as a variety of Latino genres, all of which are under the direction of a dance coach who was a former student. In addition to these and other resources, Teen Triumph Center also has a gym for basketball, volleyball, and soccer.

Along with their administrative duties, Alvarez and her program director, Rosa Juarez, still find time to tutor individual students as well — and in addition to its current programs and services, the non-profit is opening a resource center and starting up a food bank with organic produce purchased from

Triumph Teen Center derives some of its funding through early learning programs, and has recently hired grant writes to broaden its funding sources.

Gala fundraisers also contribute to the organization, and the center’s Triumph Teens will be putting on their “Quien Somos” performance in late summer.

“Our biggest supporters have

been our many community members and business owners,” says Alvarez. “We’re not selfmade, we’re made as a community, and that’s the only way we can continue.”

To help with that continuation, you’ll find Triumph Teen Center’s “donate” button on the “Support” page of their website: https://www.triumphtlc.org/ support1

local BIPOC farmers.

Viva Farms Empowers Aspiring Farmers in the Pacific Northwest

Viva Farms

Year Established: 2009 16470 State Route 20, Mount Vernon 360-969-7191

https://vivafarms.org/ www.facebook.com/vivafarms/ www.instagram.com/vivafarms/

Viva Farms is a nonprofit dedicated to building a fair and sustainable food system in Skagit and King Counties by supporting a new generation of farmers. Since 2009, Viva Farms has helped aspiring farmers, especially Latino farmworkers and those from underserved communities, establish successful, sustainable farm businesses. Through a commitment to environmental stewardship, equity, and community support, Viva

GROWN

Farms provides resources and training that make farm ownership a realistic goal.

“We empower aspiring and limited-resource farmers by providing bilingual training in holistic organic farming practices, as well as access to land, infrastructure, equipment, marketing, and capital,” explains Elma Burnham, Viva Farms’ Communications Manager.

Viva Farms operates 119 acres in two sites in Skagit

County and another in King County. Recognizing the critical need to preserve farmland and pass on essential agricultural knowledge, Viva Farms is addressing urgent issues affecting the future of agriculture: Washington has lost more than half of its farms since 1940, and nearly 70% of its farmers are retiring within 20 years. Meanwhile, food demand is increasing, which means that we’ll need more farmers to produce 40% more food by 2050.

In order to make farming a viable career for more people, Viva Farms provides farmers with the tools they need to start farming. The organization

also offers an immersive bilingual training course, called the Practicum in Sustainable Agriculture. This hands-on, eightmonth course teaches future farmers the skills they need to start farm businesses. “Most participants join our program via the Practicum in Sustainable Agriculture,” shared Elma. “After completion, they are eligible to apply to join the Farm Business Incubator, where they are given additional support and resources while they establish their businesses.”

Viva Farms has trained over 200 students via their Practicum in Sustainable Agriculture and is supporting 34 farm businesses this year.

Viva Farms is currently in the process of constructing a multifunctional facility, called The Barn at Viva Farms, which will include a food-safety certified wash-and-pack space, ample cold and dry storage, and accessible loading docks for efficient distribution. The center will enable start-up farmers to sell more and enter more markets – further strengthening the

local food system.

Looking to the future, Viva Farms is dedicated to improving access to affordable farmland in Skagit and King Counties. This helps more farmers secure long-term access to land, which is essential for their success.

Through collaboration with local organizations, Viva Farms seeks to build a fair and sustainable food system. By equipping future farmers with skills, resources, and knowledge, Viva Farms is preserving the agricultural history of the Skagit Valley and advancing a more sustainable future for everyone.

“We are working to diversify the face of farming so that it better reflects our community, and the diverse social and cultural values of people who live here,” Elma shares. “Throughout all of our programs, we practice and teach sustainable and organic agriculture practices to reduce pollution, conserve water, reduce soil erosion, in-

Viva Farms

crease soil fertility, and use less energy.”

Many graduates of Viva Farms’ programs have gone on to launch their own farms, join other farming teams, or engage with organizations that are working to ensure a sustainable food system. None of this would be possible without Viva Farms’ 17 staff members, 9 volunteers, and financial support from federal grants, produce sales, and private donations. By supporting Viva Farms, you are investing in the future of local food, community health, and the dream of sustainable farming for all. Follow Viva Farms on social media, subscribe to their newsletter, or visit their website to learn how you can help keep farming in the Pacific Northwest viable for generations to come.

94% of every dollar raised and donated goes directly to programs that serve these emerging farmers. Donations help support farm infrastruc -

ture, land access, and training resources that are critical for new farmers

to succeed. In addition to monetary donations, Viva Farms welcomes support in the form of volunteer time. Between June and November volunteers fill CSA boxes, and the team will be looking for more volunteers in the spring.

To make a donation, visit vivafarms.org/donate or call

Development Manager Danielle at 360-969-7191 x814. Checks are payable to Viva Farms and can be mailed to 16470 State Route 20, Mount Vernon, WA 98273.

A4 gestures of love and sharing to brighten the Christmas of the less privileged

re you aware of your privileges, such as good health and a good-paying job?

Do you want to express your gratitude by bringing comfort to people less fortunate than you this holiday season? Use these four ideas as inspiration.

Volunteer. Plenty of organizations need “helping hands” in the run-up to the festive season. You can wrap toys for underprivileged children, cook meals in a community kitchen for financially vulnerable families or collect food for Christmas hampers. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to getting involved in your area!

Visit someone in the hospital. Spending Christmas in the hospital is tough. You could bring a little joy to someone in the hospital by visiting them on December 24 or 25. Bring them a greeting card, a few sweets or a gift. Take advantage of your visit to do an activity with them like walking down the corridor and chatting, playing cards or watching a Christmas movie.

Lend a hand. Do you have a few hours to spare in your busy schedule? Use your free time to spread happiness and gratitude around you. For example, you could show your generosity by clearing snow from an older person’s driveway, helping someone with limited mobility put up their outdoor decorations or buying groceries for an exhausted caregiver — the possibilities are endless!

Invite someone over for Christmas Eve. For various reasons or circumstances, such as divorce, moving, illness and work, someone in your circle may be spending Christmas alone. Whether it’s a family member, neighbor, colleague or friend, open your arms and home to them. Invite them to celebrate Christmas Eve or Day with you. Your hospitality is sure to warm their hearts!

No matter how big, acts of mutual aid and solidarity can make all the difference in making Christmas a happy time for those less fortunate. What kind gestures will you make this year?

Giving out warm clothing to people without homes, sponsoring a newcomer family, sending greeting cards to nursing home residents, donating to a worthy cause and more. Whatever your way of giving, don’t hesitate to encourage your loved ones to get in on the action!