Community comes together at Resource Center Health & Wellness Fair

“We always talk about the importance of coordinating health services across our island community, but this week, we got to see it in action,” said Patricia Benton, Resource Center Board Chair. “Bringing organizations together wasn’t just a plan—it was a real-life example of what’s possible when we work as one.”

The Health & Wellness Fair featured interactive stations from key partners, including San Juan Health and Community Services, the Lions Club, the Senior Center, the Food Bank, and many others. Attendees engaged with informative booths, enjoyed demonstrations—such as a free fire cider offering made by community members —and accessed valuable health services, including blood pressure checks provided by Dr. David Shinstrom and massages from Barb Von Gunten and The Healing Arts Center’s Rick Doty.

Guests left with fresh fruit, children’s books, reusable shopping bags, and an array of wellness resources, reinforcing the event’s mission to create a healthier, more connected community.

The Resource Center extends heartfelt thanks to the dedicated Health Focus Group members who made this successful event possible: Barb Garrett, Christianne Sinoo, Kyra Dyer, Zanetha Matisse, Karen Johnston, Jacques Olivier, Be Aye and Josh Culp. Their vision, planning, and commitment to community wellness demonstrate the power of local leadership in addressing health needs on Orcas Island.

This gathering reflects the Resource Center’s commitment to community-led focus groups dedicated to our main service areas. The Health Focus Group, composed of community members with lived experience, identified and created this unique event based on real needs they observed firsthand. Empowering those with direct knowledge to make an impact remains central to the Resource Center’s responsive, community-driven support.

Keep your eye out for more focus group activities throughout the year and visit orcascrc.org to stay in the know about community news and upcoming events.