Coming home to community

||| FROM LINDSAY JENNINGS for ORCAS ISLAND COMMUNITY FOUNDATION |||

It’s Homecoming season, and not just for Orcas Island High School, but for all of us who feel that familiar pull back toward the people and places that make us feel a sense of purpose and belonging. Homecoming is about more than returning. It’s about reconnecting with what matters, remembering why we chose this place and root for each other. For many of us, that sense of purpose grows deepest when we roll up our sleeves alongside our neighbors.

There’s a place for everyone to help. Our island’s nonprofits are the threads that hold this community together, and every one of them runs on the time and talent of volunteers. You might sort donations or join a committee at the food bank, help prepare a meal at the community lunch or lend a hand at the public library. Whether you have an hour a month or a few hours a week, there is meaningful work waiting, and new friends to meet along the way. Reach out to the organizations you care about and ask how you can pitch in. 

If you’re considering joining a board, or recently joined one and want to refresh your knowledge, there’s still time to sign up for our Introduction to Board Service Workshop on Wednesday, October 28, 4:00–6:00 pm at Emmanuel Church’s Parish Hall. Whether you’re new to the island, newly retired, or simply ready to give back in a deeper way, you’ll leave with practical knowledge and a clearer sense of where your time and expertise can make a difference.

And please don’t forget to vote. Voting is one of the most fundamental ways we can shape the future of our community, from choosing local leaders to making statewide decisions. Ballots must be placed in an official drop box by 8 p.m. or postmarked by November 3. Since mail can be slow, the drop box is the safest way to ensure your ballot is received. The drop box on Orcas Island is located outside of the Senior Center. You can check your registration, find drop box locations, and track your ballot at VoteWA.gov.

Volunteer, serve, vote. However you choose to show up this season, thank you for being part of what makes Orcas home.