The South Whidbey Commons grew out of a 1998 Family/Youth Summit. A shared vision and plan for an increasingly healthy and connected South Whidbey community was put forth. It is a vision that has taken roots in our community.
Caitlin Golbaum, an Americorp volunteer, comments on the community, the Island Coffeehouse and Books and the South Whidbey Commons were really on target.
“In my short six months here as an AmeriCorps member, I have been consistently impressed by the way this community cares for its own. There are several incredible non-profit organizations in the community that work tirelessly to ensure that basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter are available to everyone. However, there is a fourth fundamental need that often gets overlooked: the need to build relationships with other people. The South Whidbey Commons is a non-profit that is dedicated to providing a safe, comfortable place where members of the community of all ages can build connections.”
The HELP Network, which South Whidbey Commons is a member, is truly unique. There is something special about our community and I do think that it is that small town atmosphere that makes it easier to know each other. Having programs that accentuate that belief in sharing and building connections is a way to ensure that we all feel like we are a part of the community.
South Whidbey Commons offers a wide variety of programs that serve as opportunities for interaction with the community. Their free PlayScape program allows children age birth through kindergarten to play together, while caregivers can visit and share experiences.
The Island Coffeehouse and Books is a welcoming communal space and also serves as a training facility for volunteer youth baristas who go out in the community with outstanding customer service and business skills. Every Friday night at 7pm, the coffeehouse offers free music performances where local and national musicians can connect with an audience in an intimate setting.
The Board knew that their facility had structural problems when it was initially purchased. A sinking foundation was the main issue. Work began on February 1st to correct the problem and to begin the remodeling of the facility. It is expected to be completed during the month of April. While it doesn’t appear that much is going on outside; most of the interior of the facility will be new!
Having a free space where people of all ages can engage in conversation and build relationships is vital to a healthy community.
If you want to learn more about the construction progress you can click on the above photo. The Island Coffeehouse and Books blog was started in September of last year and it is full of information. Blogs are all about having a conversation with the community and they have done a great job!
We have our homes and schools or work; the Third Place is the Island Coffeehouse and Books. You can click on the above photo to view a video on South Whidbey Commons.
This from Rosie’s post on The Third Place:
“I’ve heard it said that we all have three places. Our home, our work and a third place we gather for community, friendly discourse and nourishment of all kinds. It’s tricky for me, since this is where I work, but it is often where I find myself, even when I am not working. I am comfortable here. I am nourished here, literally and figuratively. In a world fraught with so many unhappy, isolating things, it is a comfort to find a place where one feels safe. Where there is a sense of belonging.”
Sound like family? You bet it is!!
If you want to make a donation to South Whidbey Commons here is the link.
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