Weaving together community this summer

For three Wednesday evenings this June and July, islanders are invited to gather in the Village Green for music, activities and networking.

“We are looking forward to summer 2022 and weaving with our Orcas Island community,” said organizer Gretchen Krampf. “Longtime locals and recently arrived islanders are invited to grab the kids, ‘Bring your own Basket’ and your camp chairs or blankets. Join us on the Village Green to see old friends and make some new ones. The three “themed” events are free and open to all.”

Krampf received funding from Leadership San Juans and the Orcas Island Community Foundation’s spring grant catalog to produce the events through IlseWork LLC. Each gathering is from 6-9 p.m.

The first event will be on June 15 in preparation for the solstice parade, Orcas Pride and Juneteenth this coming weekend. Come out to make costumes, masks and decorations, create “Trashion Fashion” for Saturday’s show, practice drumming with the Oddfellows for the parade, play lawn games and participate in playground activities and dance to the music of DJ Ian from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

On July 13, it will be “Amplify Her” with she/they entrepreneurs, artists, producers, leaders, creatives and musicians, art space and a “Red Tent,” a marketplace and a movie starting at 8:30 p.m. The July 27 theme is “Rock the Ages,” celebrating generations through music. There will be lawn games, music and dance, storytelling, a marketplace and DJ.

Each date will also feature a Resource F.A.I.R. (Family + Access to Resources + Impact on Community + Relationship Building) with island and county-wide organizations.

“Orcas Island and San Juan County organizations are invited to tent, table or open your doors for the purpose of introducing folks to the great work and services you provide,” Krampf said. “Through the last couple of years of COVID-19, many agencies have worked hard to meet the needs of our community. Introduce new offerings and share volunteer opportunities so our islanders learn how they can join, access services, volunteer and contribute.”

Bring a personal picnic, your own 10×10 market tent or folding tables/chairs, signage and information on programs. This is an ideal opportunity to demonstrate or display. It’s a perfect time to meet and greet new islanders, talk with your members and enroll volunteers. No requests for donations or sales allowed as the events are being co-sponsored by San Juan County Parks.

For more information, email gretchen.krampf@processexperts.com.