Funhouse celebrates 25 years of nurturing island kids

For 25 years, a special place on Orcas has strived to help every child feel included.

On any given day, The Funhouse Commons on the corner of Pea Patch Lane bursts with laughter, music and learning.

“It has evolved to meet the needs of the community,” explained Executive Director Ryan Carpenter. “I was hired post-COVID when staff was looking at strategic planning and revamping our mission.”

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Under Carpenter’s leadership, the organization has significantly expanded its after-school offerings, special events and weekly programming with the hope of including underserved segments of the population — from Latino to LGBTQ+.

“We want everyone to feel like they belong,” Carpenter said. “We want the kids to age into programs so there isn’t a gap.”

The Funhouse was founded in 2000 by Jim and Anne Bredouw. Their vision was to construct a facility that would inspire and enchant children. Initially, it was designed as a children’s science museum and a gathering place for young people. In 2017, thanks to the generosity of the Henigson family, the building underwent a remodel, transforming it into what it is today: a youth-focused community learning center serving over 70% of Orcas Island youth ages birth to 18.

“When I started it, I was aware it was bold to assume anyone would find it credible,” Jim said. “I wouldn’t have guessed it would be here 25 years later.”

He helped oversee the nonprofit for the first five years and then turned it over to the staff and board of directors. However, Bredouw has continued to support the Funhouse and even offers suggestions for programming. He launched the beloved Gingerbread House contest six years ago, and most recently proposed a viewing of the film “Cosmos.” A group of 27 middle and high schoolers gathered to watch it, and Jim served lattes. It was so inspiring that the Funhouse now offers “Sci-Fi Saturdays.”

“I’m so grateful they are willing to let me be a part-time ideas person,” Jim laughed.

Carpenter says the Funhouse founder has been an inspiration to him.

“Jim wanted kids to think beyond the norm. Bringing in that wonder has been his mission,” he said.

The organization is managed by a full-time staff of six and a part-time team of 14, including teen leaders in after-school programs and summer camps. While much of the Funhouse’s programming explores “the science of fun,” the nonprofit also steps up for children in crisis. Staff members are trained in various topics, including grief counseling, social-emotional learning and mentorship. The board of directors are Maia Vechey, Maggie Vinson, Lisa Walters, Marcela Barrientos, Scott Raun, Jennifer Walsh, Tania Lissistskaia and Carla Shanks.

The Funhouse collaborates with and fiscally supports two other initiatives: the Coalition for Orcas Youth, which aims to promote well-being across the community using a public health approach, and the Peach Pit, a gathering space for teens above Con’s in Eastsound.

The Peach Pit was founded last summer and is dedicated to empowering youth and fostering leadership. It will be a place where teens can socialize, attend events, access resources and find support, free of charge. Volunteers and staff will also offer job connections, collaborate with local organizations and host programs by local experts. While the physical space is not yet completed, the Youth Staffing and Day Programs are already helping teens develop valuable skills and find support.

The Funhouse spring programming has something for everyone, from music jam sessions (in the new music room) to science and technology classes. The events are tailored to meet the island youth’s diverse needs and interests.

The Funhouse Science Fair

• May 3, noon to 3 p.m. This community event celebrates the wonder of discovery and helps empower our future leaders to learn and grow. Join us for science, pizza, ice cream and fun! Open to elementary, middle and high school students.

Science Fair workshops

Every Tuesday in April, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Need help with your science project? Stop by the Funhouse on Tuesday afternoons in April to get help! All ages are welcome. Free supplies and snacks provided!

Sci-fi Saturdays

Every Saturday in April. Science Saturdays are back! Our TFAB (Teen Funhouse Advisory Committee) is planning weekly hangouts on Saturday nights with fun sci-fi films!

Open Mic Night

Friday, May 16, 7-9 p.m. The Funhouse is celebrating the opening of its new music room and recording studio by hosting a free, public Open Mic event for middle and high schoolers. Full bands, soloists, instrumentalists and small groups are invited to sign up to share one to four songs (originals and covers welcome!).

Dia de los Niños

Wednesday, April 23, 3:30-5:30p p.m. All are welcome at a Dia de los Niños celebration. Food, fun and games celebrating children.

Music all the time

The Richie Moore Song Shop is officially open, and there are various music classes to choose from: beginner group guitar lessons and SongLab music-making workshops, violin and ukulele classes, Kids Chorus and Music with Miss Mary. There is sliding scale pricing and full scholarships to make sure everyone can join the fun. Check out the Funhouse website for music classes and workshop days, times and registration.

FunFest

Friday, June 20, immediately after school. Get ready for the second annual Funhouse FunFest in the Village Green, celebrating the end of another school year. A free community event filled with waterslides, games, music, food and more!

Youth and young adults with disabilities

Mondays, Tuesdays and Friday afternoons. New programming for youth and young adults with disabilities and their caregivers. Join sewing, quilting and crafting classes.

More new programs are coming soon. Get ready for cardboard engineering and a technology club. Summer Camp registration opens on April 1. Registration for all classes and events is currently available online at www.funhousecommons.org. They also welcome volunteers from the community to assist with events.

“Spring is the perfect time to reinvigorate the spirit of youth,” Carpenter said. “We are proud to offer a range of activities that encourage young people to learn, grow, and connect with others. Through these programs, we’re providing a space where youth can have fun, discover their passions, and contribute to their community in meaningful ways.”