The Deer Harbor Community Club recently received notification from the Internal Revenue Service that it has qualified as a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization. “The Club has been incorporated in the State of Washington since 1972 as a nonprofit organization and is pleased to receive this new federal designation,” said President Mike Speece.

The 103-year-old historical building was a schoolhouse until 1928 when it was sold to the local community for use as a meeting hall. Historical memorabilia of Deer Harbor grace the interior walls of the building. In 2001 it was listed on the State of Washington Heritage Register.

The Deer Harbor Women’s Auxiliary is the main fund-raising arm of the organization. Yvonne Ashenhurst, outgoing President, commented, “An old building is in constant need of maintenance and upgrading. For instance, in 2006 a hardy crew of volunteers renovated the kitchen and installed a generator to allow the building to function independently in the event of a disaster. There are many other improvements needed and this new federal nonprofit status will help us and future volunteers raise the needed funds.”

Membership in the Deer Harbor Community Club is now being accepted for 2008-2009. The group gathers for a potluck on the second Friday of the month from October to May. For information about becoming a member or to check the availability of the building for a public or private gathering, contact 376-6773.