Some parents are wondering what activities there will be for kids this summer without Orcas Rec in the game.
The program expired last winter without a funding source, and while the Orcas Island Park and Rec District was funded by a February levy measure, the district won’t receive any actual revenue until 2012.
In spite of the funding gap, this summer there will be at least two programs for kids traditionally facilitated by Orcas Rec: soccer and sailing, both run by a host of volunteers.
The Funhouse, which already has the needed infrastructure, will coordinate insurance coverage, publicity and registration as needed for the programs. It will also offer its own day camp, “Ninja Camp.”
“The Funhouse is not in any way taking over the former functions of Orcas Rec,” said Funhouse director Pete Moe. “We are merely trying to help make sure important programs for kids can take place while OIPRD develops its own infrastructure … If we are approached by other critical programs, we would consider helping them out as well.”
Moe said the sailing and soccer programs will charge user fees, and will pay the Funhouse a small amount to cover its expenses on their behalf.
Sail Orcas, its own established organization, will coast into San Juan waters thanks to what Moe calls “a well-oiled machine” of volunteers. Sail Orcas offers weekly youth sailing lessons from June 27 to Aug. 19 for kids ages 8-15, as well as adult lessons and access to sailboats for members. Sail Orcas carries its own insurance, but Orcas Rec has coordinated its registration in past years.
Spring soccer, in contrast, has no established organization and would have a difficult time obtaining insurance on its own. The program serves kids kids ages 7-14 years; adults and older teens are welcome to assist. Soccer begins April 29 on Friday and Sunday afternoons and ends June 5.
The Funhouse will also present its own summer “Ninja Camp” for kids ages 7-12, June 20-Ag. 26, Mon.-Fri. from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The camp will include organized sports, games, arts and crafts, science projects and more.
For more information or to register, call Krista at 376-7177 or email krista@thefunhouse.org. For more information about soccer, call Elmo Paige at 298-2361.
