A Time For Thanks and Giving (2021)

SKAGIT PUBLISHING

2021 Supplement to the Skagit Valley Herald, Anacortes American and Stanwood-Camano News

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Helping Hearts and Hands Strives to Improve the Quality of Life for Patients with Dementia and End-ofLife Issues Helping Hearts and Hands Year Established – April, 2014 PO Box 1195, PMB #210 La Conner, WA 98257 (360) 724-8107 www.helpingheartsandhands.org Helping Hearts and Hands is an attentive network of trusted palliative care resources and educational services comprised of compassionate volunteers who serve the needs of dementia clients and those

who have entered their endof-life phase in Washington’s Skagit, Island, Snohomish, San Juan, and Whatcom Counties.

The organization strives to improve the quality of life for patients with serious illness or debilitating disease by

caring for the whole person; physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. The organization’s goal is to make each client’s end-of-life experience as comfortable and positive as possible by providing companionship and helping to ease people’s fears through comfort and education.

Helping Hearts and Hands was founded by Louise and Craig Edens and Joanne O.

Moore after visiting all local assisted living facilities to provide activities and van rides to appointments. While performing those tasks they saw a tremendous need for people to have better and more compassionate end-of life caring. With that realization, they started providing companionship and comfort to those in their final days/weeks. Said Louise, “We could see the effects of our efforts and moved into end-of-life services. Craig and I want to continue helping people for as long as we can and are able. We are proud to offer reasonable rates for our services and fulfill such a large demand.”

Over the years, the charity

Helping Hearts and Hands is a network of palliative care resources and educational services serving the needs of Washington’s Skagit, Island, Snohomish, San Juan and Whatcom Counties.

We strive to improve the quality of life for patients with serious illness or disease by caring for the whole person – physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually.

360.724.8107

To Donate Go To: www.helpingheartsandhands.org

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Helping Hearts and Hands has had between two and 30 volunteers and employees that work to provide companionship, comfort, cooking, rides and positive reinforcement. They are always looking for volunteers.

The organization relies on donations, sponsorships, and fund-raising efforts to provide care to their clients with 90% of all donations going directly to client care.

The charity could most use donations to meet all administrative needs and to

provide financial assistance to those with limited resources.

If you need help, would like to help, or would like to learn more about the organization, please visit www. helpingheartsandhands.org or call Louise at (360) 7248107. She is happy to take the time to listen and educate. To make a donation, please visit the Helping Hearts and Hands website, call (360) 724-8107, or mail donations to PO Box 1195, PMB #210, La Conner, WA 98257.

Please join us in supporting Helping Hearts and Hands this holiday season.

We wish all of our clients and friends a Happy Thanksgiving and a very Merry Christmas!

(360) 424-0300 www.skagittraditionrealty.com

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IRIS: A Lifeline in Times of Crisis Immigrant Resources & Immediate Support (IRIS) Year Established – 12018 1050 Larrabee Ave., Suite 104 #498 Bellingham, WA 98225 | (360) 935-1688 irisnw.org In 2018, impacted by her experiences with immigrant women and children as an immigration lawyer, Leta Sanchez recognized the immense need of many immigrant families. Together, with a group of like-minded women, all with backgrounds in social justice, law, and/ or social services, IRIS was founded. IRIS: Immigration Resources & Immediate Support.

Mission Statement.

IRIS’ mission is twofold: to connect immigrants with existing resources in the community, and to provide immediate assistance to those experiencing a temporary period of crisis. Direct support provided by IRIS includes rent subsidies, groceries, beds, clothing, and financial assistance with medical and utility bills.

Providing basic needs for vulnerable immigrant families in Skagit County.

Immigrant Resources & Immediate Support

Goals & Services.

Many immigrant families face barriers that make it incredibly difficult to fulfill their basic needs, such as food, clothing, and shelter.

Often barely making ends meet, these families are easily catapulted into crisis when something goes awry, including but not limited to job loss, medical emergency, and exposure to COVID-19.

IRIS serves families in Skagit, Whatcom, and Snohomish counties, with most current recipients residing in Skagit.

These families are some of the most marginalized members of our community, facing language barriers, sporadic and demanding seasonal work without access to social services like food stamps or health insurance.

Some families have recently arrived in the US after experiencing severe

trauma in their country of origin, including physical and emotional violence, forced displacement, and extreme economic instability. Many are single mothers escaping life threatening domestic and sexual violence. ISIS helps to create a support network, so they can focus on healing and reestablishing a sense of stability.

Other families have lived in the US for years, but have fallen into a temporary

$2,446

4% Friday Community Shopping Day funds rraised in 2020 used to meet urgent basic needs in the form of food, clothing, and rental subsidies. 100% of the proceeds oceeds went directly to recipients, and IRIS delivered several families who these items to the doorstep of sever were e unable to leave home because of COVID-19.

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Immigrant Resources & Immediate Support

period of crisis. Given the waitlists at other agencies, other barriers, and the overall lack of immediate help, IRIS’ rent subsidies and other interventions seek to prevent homelessness, hunger, and suffering.

Run by Women & Volunteers.

IRIS is run by a 6-member

Save the Da Date!

July 22, 2022 Shop to Support IRIS

unpaid Board of Directors and relies on its volunteers and one paid staff member.

The majority of funding comes from donor support, community fundraising efforts, and grants. In 2020, IRIS received its first two grants from the Skagit Community Foundation and Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary. Historically,

75-85% of donations are spent directly on recipients to provide groceries, clothing, and rental subsidies.

How You Can Help.

Like all the organizations in this giving guide, the pandemic has increased the need for IRIS’ services. And while monetary donations remain the most impactful way to support IRIS, IRIS is

You Shop! TTogether ther We Give!

also looking for new or gently used comforters, or other high quality, heavy blankets.

Many of its families live in trailers with poor insulation, or don’t have sufficient funds to pay heating bills.

For more information on how to help IRIS provide a lifeline to immigrant families when they need it most, please visit www.irisnw.org.

On the 4th Friday of every month, Skagit V Valley donates 4% of daily sales to a Food Co-op o-op dona local nonprofit. Come shop on July 22, 2022 to support IRIS - everyone is welcome!

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Skagit Valley College Foundation Advances the Mission of SVC, Creating Greater Opportunities For All Students, Transforming Lives, the Workforce, and our Communities.

Skagit Valley College Foundation Year Established – 1978 (College 1926) 2405 East College Way, 98273 (360) 416-7870 (360-927-1804 cell) www.skagitfoundation.org www.facebook.com/SVCFOUNDATION/ SVC Foundation provides support to Skagit Valley College and SVC students through friend-raising and fundraising

for student scholarships, emergency and childcare assistance, equipment and capital projects, raising money for specific SVC

programs and so much more.

The organization’s goal is to reduce barriers for students pursuing and achieving their education, while also ensuring SVC programs have the tools, equipment, and resources they need to provide high-quality and relevant education for students. Said Executive Director, Brad Tuininga, “The needs of our students are complex and the philanthropic interests of our donors are diverse. We are focused on building authentic and engaged relationships with people and businesses of Skagit, Island, and San Juan counties so they can meet their philanthropic goals and lift up students and our community in the process.”

Skagit Valley College has been a pillar in the community for 95 years (since 1926), transforming the lives of generations of students and their families. We also know that a highly skilled and trained workforce is paramount to economic development.

Your Generosity, Your Impact, Your Skagit Valley College

By providing that training for thousands of students each year, SVC is a critical force in helping people and families move out of poverty by giving them access to family wage jobs. When we break the generational cycle of poverty, we also break dependence on social and health services many people depend on to survive.

Dr. James Ford (longtime former SVC President) was instrumental in establishing SVC Foundation in 1978. He recognized an opportunity to engage the local community at the College in ways that met their philanthropic goals and served the needs of the College’s students.

SVC Foundation works to raise awareness in the community about the College, while raising money for students in need of emergency and childcare funding, scholarships, program/ equipment, and more. One-hundred-percent of dollars raised goes back to helping students.

www.skagitfoundation.org • 360-416-7870 brad.tuininga@skagit.edu

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Skagit Valley College Foundation

SVC students have unique challenges and philanthropy plays a tremendous role in helping them overcome those barriers. The College also serves business, industry, and economic development in Skagit, Island, San Juan counties through Professional Technical (Workforce) degrees (about 41% of enrolled SVC students are pursuing a workforce degree). The College only offers workforce degrees in areas where employers are hiring. Additionally, SVC focuses on core skills unique to our area such as Marine Technology,

Manufacturing and Composites Technology. Skagit Valley College also offers academic transfer degrees (about 45% of the student body), Basic Skills for Adults program (GED, high school completion, English language acquisition, Math/ Computer/English skills upgrades - about 9% of students), four-year baccalaureate degrees in Environmental Conservation and Applied Management (soon to expand to other program areas - about 1% of students.)

SVC serves ALL students no matter who they are, where they

come from, or their educational/ professional background – no one is turned away. Lives are transformed thanks to the work of SVC and the philanthropic dollars invested by our community. The funds raised open up SO many more opportunities for students who would never have been able to attend or stay in college.

SVC Foundation develops annual fundraising goals around emergency and childcare assistance, annual and endowed scholarships, equipment and program support, and unre-

stricted operational support.

Students who have been most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic especially need help with paying for childcare and unexpected emergencies.

To learn more about the foundation, please visit www. skagitfoundation.org or call Brad Tuininga at (360) 416-7870. To make a donation, please visit the SVC Foundation website and go to the donor form at https:// www.mysvc.skagit.edu/foundation_giving_form.asp. In-kind donations are also accepted.

Proudly celebrating 95 years of serving students and our community!

Winter quarter starts Jan. 4 skagit.edu

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Since 2003, Childrens Museum of Skagit County Has Been the Place for Intergenerational Learning…and Fun! Children’s Museum of Skagit County Year Established — 2003 432 Fashion Way, Burlington, WA 98233 | (360) 757-8888 www.skagitchildrensmuseum.net Facebook: www.facebook.com/skagitchildrensmuseum Twitter: twitter.com/ChildMuseumSkag Instagram: www.instagram.com/skagitchildrensmuseum/ Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/bakerthebear/ The mission of Children’s Museum of Skagit County is unique in offering intergenerational hands-on learning opportunities from birth through ages 10-12.

Beyond this core group, how-

ever, the organization serves all ages through volunteer programs, community outreach, and special events.

Through its 15,400 square foot space in Burlington, Wash-

ington, the Children’s Museum creates an environment where children can learn the way they learn best — through play. The museum is divided into large exhibit spaces, an art studio, a reading area with books, games and other activities, and even a STEAM Lane (science, technology, engineering, art, math) where children are free to engage in age-appropriate activities for limitless learning that is fun.

Children’s Museum of Skagit County is also the venue for the Museum Explorers Pre-School Program, and the organization manages an expansive scholarship program to provide family passes and memberships, host birthday parties for children who are homeless, and make camps,

classes, and other events accessible to children who would benefit from them.

The museum was founded at the dawn of the new millennium by a group of parents who were frustrated by the limited number of places where children could go and have fun while learning. Co-founder Tracey Levine is currently the board president.

The organization’s other founder is Eric Karl Chambers. Prior to COVID, the organization operated with a staff of 17, which was reduced to three during the pandemic. Nevertheless, Children’s Museum of Skagit County kept its pre-school running — and in 2020 it launched its Help Me Grow-Skagit Family Resource Center to serve the needs of COVID-positive families

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Children’s Museum of Skagit County

by providing basic cleaning and hygiene supplies, diapers, and wipes, as well as educational activity kits for continued childhood learning. It is currently one of very few sources for infant car seats.

As a 501(c3) non-profit, Children’s Museum of Skagit County derives its funding through

earned revenue (including the Museum Store), grants, foundations, individual gifts and sponsorships, and its annual dinner/ auction. Because the pandemic forced the shutdown of museum for 15 months, the organization has had to rely on additional funding for support, but has remained resilient and is currently hiring staff. Children’s Museum

of Skagit County further benefits from hundreds of dedicated volunteers who help with special events such this years Winter Wonderland (December 3-5).

To help Chidren’s Museum of Skagit County remain nimble and responsive in fulfilling its core mission — and supporting community needs from child-

hood education to hosting social service programs and mentoring future community leaders — the public is encouraged to go online and donate through its website. Executive director Cate Anderson is also accessible via cellphone at (360) 770-9746 or by email at Cate@skagitcm.org, or contact the museum directly.

Join us in supporting the Children’s Museum of Skagit County and help Build a Brighter Future for the children and families in our area.

Shoes and Clothing

420 E. Fairhaven Ave., Burlington 360.755.0570

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Skagit DVSAS serves primary and secondary victims of interpersonal violence and their children

without discrimination, making great efforts to reach minority populations, such as the Latin-x community, local tribal communities, and homeless populations.

Skagit Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services Year Established – 1979 Physical Address: 1521 B Leigh Way, Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Mailing Address: PO Box 301, Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Office line: (360) 336-9591 www.skagitdvsas.org/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/SkagitDVSAS Instagram: www.instagram.com/skagitdvsas/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/15320590/admin/ Interpersonal violence is an epidemic that affects one in three women and one in six men in the U.S. Skagit County is ranked number eight out of 39

counties in Washington State for the number of domestic violence (DV) incidents per 100,000 residents, with a DV rate 29% higher than the

state average. Financial strain, fear, and isolation resulting from the Covid-19 crisis have dramatically increased the danger level of victims and reduced community support systems. Children who grow up in violent homes suffer from emotional, social, cognitive, and health problems, and often continue this cycle of violence as adults. The good news is, with intervention, this cycle can be stopped.

Skagit DVSAS is committed to breaking the cycle of violence through its free supportive services and prevention programs. The agency offers confidential, comprehensive, client centered advocacy services to victims

The mission of Skagit Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services is to end domestic violence and sexual assault in our community through empowerment, advocacy, education, awareness, and action for social change. The organization operates the only emergency domestic violence shelter in the county and inspires our community to create positive change and break the cycle of violence through education.

Skagit DVSAS has worked diligently to serve survivors of interpersonal violence in Skagit County and endeavored to prevent further violence in the community since 1979. The organization currently has 17

The mission of Skagit Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services is to end domestic violence and sexual assault in our community through empowerment, advocacy, education, awareness and action for social change.

To Donate Go To: www.skagitdvsas.org

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Skagit DVSAS

employees and 17 volunteers, led by Executive Director, Heidi Roy. With over 40 years of experience and a cross-trained staff that is state certified in best-practice domestic violence and sexual assault advocacy, the agency is fully equipped to provide supportive services to all county residents who require them.

SDVSAS provides a 24-hour crisis hotline, advocacy-based counseling, safety planning, confidential emergency shelter, medical advocacy (emergency room assistance),

prevention education groups, presentations and activities in local schools, organizations, and agencies, domestic violence and sexual assault support groups, child sexual abuse services, and an immigrant victim program.

Most SDVSAS funding comes from government grants (though these are expected to be smaller in coming years) or private foundation grants, with the remainder coming from fundraising events, organizations, and individual donors. Eighty-one percent of

funding goes to helping people in need of their services.

The charity is currently looking for more individual community donations along with collaborative partnerships and non-financial donations to ensure that it can meet the growing demand for supportive services in our county, including transitional housing for domestic violence survivors and their families.

Information about the agency and its financial and volunteer needs can be found on the agency website, by calling the office line at: 360-336-9591, or by following them on Facebook.

Interested donors may visit the SDVSAS website to access the donation portal (https:// skagitdvsas.networkforgood. com/projects/103406-sdvsasgiving-page), or text “Give” to: 360-318-7825.

Proudly serving our community for over 36 years!

(360) 219-9188

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Protecting the Vision of the Medically Underserved Requires an EyeWitness EyeWitness Missions Year Established — 2013 1777 S. Burlington Blvd.

Burlington, WA 98233 (360) 421-4506 www.eyewitnessmissions.org (website coming soon!)

Among the many challenges faced by the homeless in Skagit Valley, access to consistent health care is one of the most critical.

Historically, people who are medically underserved are much more likely to develop cataracts, which can causes blindness. Fortunately, this vision impairment is not irreparable — which is why

the mission statement of EyeWitness Missions is “to be the hands of Jesus in the fight against reversible blindness through treatment to the medically underserved.”

EyeWitness Missions was formed in 2013 by local vision health professionals Dan and Wendy Siapco of Cascadia Eye in Burlington, Washington.

Drawing on vision health

specialists and other local volunteers, the organization provides eye screenings and cataract surgeries to people who have not been seen by a doctor in a long time.

Through partnerships with local non-profits serving homeless populations, EyeWitness Missions performs pressure tests for detection of glaucoma, and screens for other vision-related issues such as diabetes and overall eye health in general.

With access to physicians credentialed in Washington, EyeWitness Missions focuses primarily on serving

The desire of EyeWitness Missions is to be the hands of Christ by joining the fight against reversible blindness through eye care and curative treatment to medically underserved people.

Skagit and King Counties, although it does organize and participate in clinic events in other countries with similar underserved needs. Treatment teams generally consist of 10-15 volunteers who are recruited on an ad hoc basis as the organization identifies partnership opportunities with non-profit groups such as Project Homeless Connect. EyeWitness Missions’ programs are overseen by a highly engaged sevenmember board.

EyeWitness Missions is funded primarily through

Change someone’s life: 1) Write a check to the address below 2) Scan the Paypal QR code EyeWitness Missions 1777 S. Burlington Blvd. #264 Burlington, WA 98232

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EyeWitness Missions personal connections and fundraising dinners hosted on a rotating basis by the charity’s board members. The entirety of donations go toward serving vulnerable communities.

The organization is currently trying to raise $20,000 to establish an “eye care lane” — a set of screening stations that could be easily set up in selected localities using dedicated mobil equipment.

Other goals include raising community awareness of its mission in order to further connections with other nonprofits serving the homeless, and establishing relationships with local care providers in underserved countries to form sister organizations.

EyeWitness Missions will soon be launching a new web presence. In the

meantime, donations can be made through the charity’s dedicated PayPal link and to its mailing address above. To learn more about EyeWitness Missions, its goals, and opportunities for community engagement, contact the organization via email at eyewitnessmissions@gmail. com.

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At Underground Ministries, the Healing Goes Both Ways Underground Ministries Year Established — 2017 PO Box 174 Mount Vernon WA 98274 (360) 420-3962 www.undergroundministries.org Underground Ministries defines its mission as “opening new relationships of embrace and trust between the incarcerated and the communities to which they return—for our mutual transformation and resurrection.” The organization is unique in its dedication to the healing and interruption of gang cycles in the Skagit Valley — work that it believes should involve the

whole community through mutual transformation.

Founder and executive director of Underground Ministries, Chris Hoke, was a volunteer chaplain in the Skagit County Jail and Juvenile detention for twelve years, pastoring mainly gang-affected young men.

When he saw how hard it was to “re-enter” after long prison sentences, he started building a local “Underground

Railroad” with churches and businesses.

Today, Underground Ministries is mobilizing churches across western Washington to be re-entry teams through its “One Parish One Prisoner” program, in which a church builds a relationship with someone in prison through a year of letter writing and release planning, and learns how to accompany their new friend through the many obstacles to their reentry.

With five employees, six volunteer employers, and 28 “One Parish One Prisoner” teams in Washington, Underground Ministries oversee more than 150 individual volunteers who are helping men leave

the gang lifestyle, not go back to prison, become fathers, employees, church members and leaders in our community. Organization services include pastoral care, release planning, housing applications, rental support, assistance in regaining driver’s licenses, navigating legal obligations like court and probation, drug and alcohol treatment, mental health services, access to supportive jobs through Underground Employment, paying off old legal debt, building new pro-social support systems with their families, faith communities and community colleges.

The work of Underground Ministries is supported through individual,

Join us into, and out from, the underground – for our mutual transformation and resurrection. undergroundministries.org

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Underground Ministries recurring donations (made to undergroundministries. org/donate), and 100% of donations mobilize local, volunteer e-entry teams across Washington — with a particularly urgent need to cover releasing individuals’ first month’s rent as they begin their healthy lives out of prison. Skagit employers interested in joining the organization’s Underground Employment network can learn how at undergroundministries.org/ employment.

Underground Ministries’ near term funding goal is to hire two of its top formerly incarcerated volunteers as full-time Reentry Navigators.

Long term, the organization seeks to support a movement where every employer wants to become an Underground

Employer and every church is doing One Parish One Prisoner with a single

neighbor, rebuilding a life after incarceration.

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Family Promise takes a holistic approach to ending family homelessness Family Promise of Skagit Valley Year Established - 2013 P.O. Box 335 Sedro-Woolley WA 98284 | (360) 854-0743 familypromiseskagit.weebly.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/FamilyPromiseofSkagitValley Instagram: www.instagram.com/familypromiseskagit/ With a mission to bring our community together to support homeless families as they work to provide their children with loving homes, Family Promise of Skagit Valley focuses on families with minor children who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of losing their housing.

After realizing that there are more than 1,000 homeless children in the Skagit Valley, a local pastor lead an effort to create a Skagit Valley affiliate of Family Promise National.

The organization currently has 9 employees. Prior to COVID, Family Promise could count on 400-600 volunteers at any given time,

but the organization, under executive director Audrea Woll, is currently rebuilding its volunteer in the wake of the pandemic. Despite these challenges, Family Promise has served 28 families including 41 children this year through its Housing Programs, and 41 families including 66 children through its Diversion Program.

Family Promise takes a holistic approach to ending family homelessness using wrap-around services and case management, as well as through a rotational model

Prevention

Shelter

Stabilization

Shelter Diversion

Hospitality

Housing

Rental Assistance

Case Management

Financial Capability

Transportation

Community Engagement

Career Pathway

To Donate Go To:

www.familypromiseskagit.weebly.com

that uses existing church and organization buildings and volunteers to keep shelter costs low. The organization provides an Emergency Shelter, Transitional Housing, Case Management, Financial Literacy, Volunteer Opportunities, and much more. Its funding comes primarily from donations and grants.

Contributions to Family Promise can be made through its website (familypromiseskagit.weebly. com). Along with volunteer and financial support, the organization always needs towels, sheets, cleaning supplies, toilet paper, and paper towels. Family Promise invites the public to call (360) 854-0743 with questions or to learn more about the organization and its needs.

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Family Promise of Skagit Valley

We are proud to support Family Promise and many other terrific non-profit entities throughout Skagit County.

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insurance to meet your needs

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Humane Society of Skagit Valley’s Mission Began With a Neglected Horse The Humane Society of Skagit Valley Year Established — 1974 18841 Kelleher Road Burlington, WA, 98233 (360) 757-0445 www.skagithumane.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/SkagitHumane The mission of The Humane Society of Skagit Valley (HSSV) is one that any animal lover can endorse: to provide a safe haven to shelter and care for the abandoned, abused, or unwanted animals within Skagit County — and for nearly half a century the organization’s compassionate and dedicated staff have worked daily to give animals in need a fighting

chance at the good life they deserve. During the COVID pandemic, HSSV has housed pets whose family members were hospitalized with the illness and helped find homes for those pets whose owners did not survive the disease.

With 16 employees and 70 volunteers, HSSV operates as an open admission facility that serves Skagit and surrounding

counties and tribes, with its primary demographic comprised of community members and their pets from across all spectrums, regardless of age, gender, religious affiliation, race, or socio-economic status. Its comprehensive array of services include Pet Adoption and Adoption Counseling, Animal Care & Behavioral Information, Lost & Found Services, Lowincome Pet Food Bank, Low-income Spay & Neuter Program, Pet Boarding for those experiencing domestic violence, Barn Buddy Program for feral cats, Community Education, and Animal Rescue Transport from high-kill shelters or shelters experiencing natural

disasters.

HSSV got its start in 1973, when a concerned citizen began taking photos of a neglected horse. In advocating for its plight, she was successful in generating a public outcry for animal welfare advocacy and reform in Skagit Valley.

As a result, in August of 1974, the Humane Society of Skagit Valley was registered as a 501c3 non-profit animal welfare organization. Since then, the organization has provided comfort, medical care, behavioral training and rehabilitation for the up to 2,500 animals that pass through its shelter annually. Janine Ceja currently serves as HSSV’s executive director, having spent

The Humane Society of Skagit Valley

360-757-0445

has a mission to provide a safe haven to shelter and care for the abandoned, abused, or unwanted animals within Skagit County; to treat the animals with dignity and respect; to place these animals into loving and caring homes; to create public education programs that increase the awareness of humane treatment and the necessity of spay and neuter of all animals; and to coordinate resources for housing and placement of small animals evacuated during disaster.

To Donate Go To: www.skagithumane.org

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The Humane Society of Skagit Valley

36 years with the organization after starting out as a kennel attendant.

The majority of funding for HSSV programs comes from community donations,

(360) 707-5500

charitable contributions through bequests, and community fundraisers, while the bulk of the funding for overhead and operational expenses outside of direct

services to animals comes from sales at The Humane Society Thrift Shop in Mount Vernon.

The organization’s most critical needs at this time are additional staffing — particularly for

kennel attendants — and realizing its goal of establishing an onsite spay & neuter clinic with a professional veterinarian.

Donations can be made through the HSSV website, and the organization maintains wish lists on Amazon and Chewy.com, both of which are linked to www.skagithumane. org/wishlist. Donations of pet food, treats, toys and other pet supplies are always accepted, and HSSV encourages anyone with questions about its operations to email them via info@skagithumane.org.

All About Hearing is proud to support the Humane Society of Skagit Valley. For every set of hearing aids purchased November 25 to December 23, we will donate $50 to the Humane Society of Skagit Valley.

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United Way Diaper Bank of Skagit County Strives to Ensure that Families Living in Poverty Have an Adequate Supply of Diapers for their Infants and Toddlers United Way Diaper Bank of Skagit County Year Established – 2016 (Dean and Calista) 2021 (United Way) (360) 922-2644 www.diaperbankskagit.org www.facebook.com/unitedwayskagit It is important for the public to know that government safety-net programs do not recognize diapers as a basic need – diapers are categorized as “unallowable expenses” by public food programs, including

the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The poorest 20% of Americans who buy diapers spend nearly 14 percent of their post-tax income on diapers. In

Skagit County, there are 3,000 children at risk for diaper needs.

There are direct links between diaper insecurity and a mother’s mental health. One study suggests that an adequate supply of diapers may prove a tangible way of reducing parenting stress, a critical factor influencing child health and development.

United Way Diaper Bank of Skagit County’s mission is to raise community awareness that “basic human needs” include diapers and that these needs are not being met for children living in poverty, and to advocate for policy reform so that diapers are included in the definition of and

provision for the “basic human needs” of families.

Diaper Bank of Skagit County (DBSC) started as an awareness project in 2016. Calista Scott, a retired maternity nurse, observed mothers looking for diapers while volunteering at a food bank in her community. She could not get this off her mind. In 2017, Community Action of Skagit County provided fiscal sponsorship of the project and in 2018, DBSC became a certified member of the National Diaper Bank Network and a 501(c)3 Non-profit Corporation.

Since then, the DBSC has grown steadily from delivering 25,000 diapers the first year to 25,000

United Way of Skagit County will unite with others to build a positive and sustainable quality of life for our community.This begins with the health and safety of our most vulnerable citizens – children. Short-term goals consist of providing basic needs items such as diapers and wipes. Long-term goals of Diaper Bank of Skagit County, key safety information will be shared through social media and families in need will be provided with health and safety tools to ensure the immediate and long-term health and wellness of children, pregnancy through age five.

To Donate Go To: www.diaperbankskagit.org

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United Way Diaper Bank of Skagit County diapers/month (50 diapers per month to over 500 children) by the end of 2021. As of July 2021, Dean and Calista entrusted all diaper bank operations to United Way of Skagit County, with Program Coordinator Ana Rivas overseeing the diaper bank and distribution. In addition, United Way staff Craig Chambers, Ricardo Gomez, Keegan McAdams, and Lynne Blanford help with marketing, fundraising, and finances. The organization has one volunteer, Joanne Lynn, who helps weekly to package diapers.

The charity is also grateful to the Skagit Children’s Museum for letting them use their storage space to store the diapers and to Anya, Cate, and Emily for helping out when they can.

The Diaper Bank of Skagit County partners with service organizations who work closely with families who have children under the age of five. It is through

this partnership that diapers are distributed to families who meet eligibility requirements, including those receiving Medicaid/Apple Health, TANF, SNAP, WIC, and SSI. Low-income families and those who are eligible for disaster relief may also qualify.

The majority of funding comes from community donations (diaper drives, diaper box drops), money donations, grants, and fundraising. More funding is needed to ensure that enough

diapers can be distributed to keep babies clean and dry in Skagit County. The organization is also looking for volunteers to repackage diapers and organizations who want to host diaper drives.

Said Ana Rivas, “Diaper needs should be considered when developing anti-poverty programs for families. By providing diapers, a basic need, we are positively impacting the well-being of parents and

children’s health, moving the whole family toward educational and economic security.”

To learn more about the organization, please visit www.diaperbankskagit.org or https://www.facebook.com/ unitedwayskagit. To make a donation, Children’s Museum is a designated Diaper Bank Drop off location, or you can make a financial donation through the charities’ webpage or Amazon Wishlist.

The United Way Diaper Bank of Skagit County is working to ensure that families living in poverty have an adequate supply of diapers for their infants and toddlers. To raise community awareness that “basic human needs” include diapers and that these needs are not being met for children living in poverty, and to advocate for policy reform so that diapers are included in the definition of and provision for the “basic human needs” of families.

To Donate Go To: www.diaperbankskagit.org

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Hopes and Dreams Begin With a “SPARC” Skagit Preschool & Resource Center (SPARC) Year Established — 1964 320 Pacific Place Mount Vernon, WA 98273 (360) 416-7570 www.sparckids.org Since 1964, Skagit Preschool and Resource Center (SPARC) has provided individualized services to children from birth to age 5 with unique developmental needs. Because SPARC believes families are children’s first and foremost teachers and advocates, it provides services aimed not only at the lifelong success of the child, but also in support of families

as they start down a journey that most did not expect when they became parents.

SPARC grew out of a small group of parents who faced the challenges of raising a child with a disability — this during an era when people with disabilities had few to no options for educational services. Today, the organization numbers more than 50 employees

and volunteers, headed by executive director Amanda Sloan, who deliver educational and therapeutic services that include inclusive preschool programs, speech & language, and occupational and physical therapy services — as well as parent educational and support programs.

SPARC is funded primarily through contracts with community partners

that include the Mount Vernon School District, the Department of Children, Youth and Family Services, and Skagit County’s Developmental Disabilities Administration. SPARC supplements this income with donations received by community members/groups and other philanthropic agencies such as the Skagit Community Foundation, United Way of Skagit

Skagit Preschool and Resource Center (SPARC) provides individualized services for families and their children with unique developmental needs, from birth through age 5 in Skagit County, helping build the foundation for lifelong success.

To Donate Go To: www.sparckids.org

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Skagit Preschool & Resource Center (SPARC) County, and local Tribal communities. This funding covers the cost of classroom materials and furniture, therapeutic equipment, testing/evaluation protocols, and technology in support of virtual services, as well as helping to remove any potential barriers to support, such as a family’s inability to cover the cost of insurance co-pays.

Community need has outgrown the capacity of SPARC’s current location for preschool services. SPARC also hopes to expand its Neurodevelopment Center in order to offer additional therapeutic and diagnostic services to children, including autism evaluation and ongoing support. In addition to seeking additional community partners who

would like to create a lasting legacy, SPARC is accepting donations as a local 501c3 nonprofit. To learn more about SPARC, visit the organization’s website where you’ll also find a “Donate” page — or stop by SPARC’s main office at 320 Pacific Place in Mount Vernon.

For those who would like to play a more active role in

furthering SPARC’s mission in our community, the organization would welcome new board members — especially those whose backgrounds include early education, capital campaigns, human resources, marketing and donor development skills.

A TRUSTED MEMBER of the Skagit County Business Community since 2000 We are proud to support SPARC!

www.amsilicensing.com

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Youth Dynamics has a Mission to Invite and Challenge Youth to a Lifelong Adventure with Christ and His Church Youth Dynamics Year Established – 1970 850 Haggen Drive, PO Box 468, Burlington, WA 98233 (360) 757-1337 www.yd.org www.facebook.com/youthdynamics Youth Dynamics is a relational adventure youth ministry, established in 1970 in Anacortes, Washington, by Paul and Connie Evans. The ministry is expanding and now serves youth throughout Washington, Idaho, and Oregon with 62 staff

(five serving students locally and several volunteers engaging with youth). Its corporate office is located in Burlington.

Locally, Youth Dynamics serves youth in Anacortes, Arlington, Burlington, Concrete, Mount Vernon, Sedro-Woolley, and

Stanwood. The mission of Youth Dynamics is to invite and challenge youth to a lifelong adventure with Christ and His church. Reaching any and all youth 11 to 24 years old, regardless of religious affiliation, Youth Dynamics offers weekly junior and senior high school programs, young adult internships, rural outreach, leadership opportunities, professionally guided adventure experiences, and retreats at Stonewater—Youth Dynamics› amazing 158-acre adventure and retreat facility located in Leavenworth, Washington.

Said President Tom Davis, “At Youth Dynamics, we believe all young people look for three things: meaningful relationships, adventurous experiences, and finding purpose. Each area of Youth

Dynamics looks for the specific needs of the community and invests there. This includes rural services, work with youth in the criminal justice systems, and partnerships with local clubs, churches, and schools.

One of the things that makes Youth Dynamics special is that we incorporate adventures (e.g., rock climbing, rafting, and backpacking) into our programming to build trust and break down barriers so that authentic relationship building can happen.”

How Grace (now 18 years old) was impacted by Youth Dynamics: “My grandma first introduced me to Youth Dynamics. I had a nice, icy shell around me when it came to religion but being around people

RELATIONAL ADVENTURE YOUTH MINISTRY

JUNIOR HIGH SENIOR HIGH

COMMUNITY OUTREACH YOUNG ADULT DISCIPLESHIP ADVENTURES LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

RETREATS

INTERNSHIPS

LET’S ADVENTURE TOGETHER!

yd.org

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Youth Dynamics

in Youth Dynamics melted the ice shield I had. I didn›t grow up in the church but all the previous Christian experiences I had did not help me view Christians or church in a positive light. They first introduced me to Christianity by showing me what it was to be in a community and they cared about me - consistently.

Mentally and tangibly, the staff helped me to find a better direction in life. They opened the door to different things that showed me a new passion in life, like rock climbing,

as after-school outreach programming is free to all youth who attend. Adventure activities have a slight fee; however, fundraisers and scholarships are available for those who want to attend but need some assistance. The majority of the organization›s funding comes from individual donors but they also receive funds from various foundations and fundraising events. A full 86% of donations goes back into the program. To reach all the youth in need in Skagit County, the organization needs more ministry partners,

backpacking, and giving back to the community. Staff showed me support and a different perspective, and they gave me the courage to try new things.

They made me feel like I could do something new that scared me. I found new strength and identity and purpose. I felt welcome, wanted, and a part of something bigger than myself. I felt like the staff were interested in me and who I was. Youth Dynamics showed me what it was like to live in kindness.”

Youth Dynamics relies on individual donations to operate

including volunteers (mentors, administrative, construction, maintenance), financial support, and prayer. Said Davis, «We have so many youths who are showing up to our outreach events, and we need volunteers and staff to develop relationships with them.»

To learn more about Youth Dynamics, please visit www. yd.org or www.facebook. com/youthdynamics. To make a donation, please visit the organization›s donation page: www.yd.org/donate.

YES! I WOULD LIKE TO SUPPORT YOUTH DYNAMICS! Yes! I would like to support Youth Dynamics with a contribution of: q $25

PO Box 486 • Burlington, WA 98233 360.757.1337 • info@yd.org www.yd.org Youth Dynamics is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and all donations are tax deductible.

q $50

q $100 q $250

q $500 q $1,000 q $______ q Make it monthly!

Please designate my gift to support the local ministry in: q Anacortes q Arlington q Burlington q Concrete q Mount Vernon q Sedro Woolley q Stanwood q Where greatest need TI O OP N

1

Make check payable to: Youth Dynamics TI O OP N

3

TI O OP N

2

Donate online: www.yd.org/donate

Set up electronicly with my bank (attach voided check)

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Helping Hands Food Bank Nourishes More Than the Body Helping Hands Food Bank Year Established — 1985 9386 Fruitdale Road Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 Mailing Address — PO Box 632 Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 (360) 856-2211 www.helpinghandsfoodbank.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/HelpingHandsFoodBank Twitter: twitter.com/helpinghandsfb Instagram: www.instagram.com/helpinghandsfb/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/ helpinghandsfoodbank YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/ UCzJfk3pKz9mAq4vsWQbTPFQ Helping Hands began in a church basement in SedroWoolley in the 1970s with about 20 volunteers collecting

food through donations and food drives, and then distributing it to those who came to the church and

asked. This effort evolved into a nonprofit organization with a vision of addressing the inequity of food bank experiences in Skagit County, making sure every citizen has access to high-quality food resources.

Helping Hands has made It their mission to feed and nourish the community with kindness and respect, and without judgment — but the organization is more than a food bank. As Helping Hands has grown, it has developed a Solution Center whose services not only include food, but also education, navigation, access to DSHS (Department

of Social & Health Services), internships and other things. Its programs include C.H.O.W. (Cutting Hunger on Weekends), job training, education classes, Navigation Center, Grocery Rescue, mobile food & services, a community room, and the Skagit Valley’s largest food bank.

Only 2 percent of Helping Hand’s funding comes from government — 98 percent comes from individuals, businesses, and foundation grants. Over the past 18 months alone, Helping Hands has served over 10 million pounds of food in its efforts to keep the Skagit Valley stronger and more resilient. To oversee its efforts, the organization relies on 11 employees and 50 volunteers — down significantly from a pre-covid level of 400 volunteers — including teams of people who help participants DONATE

C.H.O.W. (Cutting Hunger on Weekends) Job Training Education Classes Navigation Center

Grocery Rescue Mobile Food & Services Community Room Skagit's Largest Food Bank

360.856.2211 | PO Box 632 Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 | development@helpinghandsfoodbank.org

VOLUNTEER

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Helping Hands Food Bank

navigate the resources that are available to them.

To maintain its level of services at their highest during the pandemic, Helping Hands urgently needs additional financial support. Longer term, the organization seeks partnerships with other organizations and businesses, volunteers to deliver and sort food as well as help connect resources to participants, volunteer board members, and advocacy experts to help with systemic change as Helping Hands seeks solutions to the reasons people need help with food to begin with.

To support the work of

Helping Hands, donors can give online at www. helpinghandsfoodbank. org/donate, or by mail at PO Box 632 Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284. Those interested in volunteering are encouraged to learn more about Helping Hands through its website

(www.helpinghandsfoodbank. org/volunteer). Food donations are accepted Monday through Friday, 8am3pm via a drop off bin near the front gate of the organization’s Sedro-Woolley warehouse, as well as during distributions.

We are proud to support Helping Hands Food Bank and many other terrific non-profit entities throughout Skagit County.

1616 N 18th, Suite 160 Mount Vernon, Washington 98273 • 360-424-1772 • smiley-ins.com

insurance to meet your needs

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Acres of Hope Youth Ranch has a Mission to Share HOPE (Healing, Opportunity, Purpose, Education) with Adolescents

Who are Feeling HURT

(Harmed, Unseen, Rejected, Traumatized) Acres of Hope Youth Ranch

Year Established – 2020 6665 Rickreall Rd., Independence, OR 97351 (503) 507-6500 https://acresofhopeyouthranch.org/ www.facebook.com/acresofhopeyouthranch www.instagram.com/acresofhopeyouthranch Founded by Emmy and Justin Arana, Acres of Hope is a youth ranch that serves

teens ages 12 -19 who have experienced HURT (Harmed, Unseen, Rejected,

Traumatized) with free horse programs. Because all programs are geared for teens at no cost to families, the organization is able to focus on reaching teens where they are at. Said Executive Director, Heather Holcomb, “Our mission is to share hope with the youth that are hurting. So, we really try to just take cost off the table and think about serving our kids.”

The charity was founded in 2020 after God gave Emmy this vision while working years ago as a teacher in a public middle school. She knew in her heart that the poor behavior

of students didn’t come from their hearts, but from their hurt. She wrestled with God about how to reach these kids and He gave her the vision for Acres of Hope to pair hurting teens with horses.

Acres of Hope offers three programs run by five staff and 25 volunteers, but the core program is the individual sessions. All teens start in this program, which includes once-a-week sessions for one hour with a consistent session leader/mentor and the horse of their choosing. The organization also has small group sessions and a large

Providing a world where teens live like they belong & love like others belong 100% of donations go towards running our program which is at no cost to families.

To Donate Go To: www.acresofhopeyouthranch.org

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Acres of Hope Youth Ranch

discipleship group that kids are moved into when they are ready to work on their peer relationships. Said Emmy, “This works with the second part of our vision statement (loving like others belong). Sometimes just getting outside yourself and seeing others can be healing.”

Funding comes from charitable giving from the community and recurring donors giving between $50 - $1,500 a month. Two fundraisers are also run every year. In addition, the charity

received five grants in the last 16 months ranging from $500 - $25,000. All 100% of donations goes toward running the program. Said Emmy, “We have chosen to trust God for our funding.

Since opening we have been able to keep our program at no cost to the families thanks to generous donations from our community.”

Running a ranch is a 24/7 job and volunteers are always welcome to join the Acres of Hope volunteer team, Team GRIT. Emmy and Justin also

welcome anyone who just wants to be in prayer over their ministry. Said Emmy, “We believe a community of people in prayer is life changing and we have witnessed it first hand at Acres of Hope. The only reason we are even on the property is due to prayer and steps of faith.”

Funding is the charity’s biggest prayer and need at the moment. Being able to fund the current budget with consistent monthly sponsors would free up additional funds to grow the program, develop

the 20-acre field, and get more youth off of the waitlist.

To learn more about Acres of Hope, please visit https:// acresofhopeyouthranch. org/, www.facebook.com/ acresofhopeyouthranch or www.instagram.com/ acresofhopeyouthranch. You may also enjoy this video about the impact that the ranch has had on families: https://youtu.be/lyjP_RkQTXo. To make a financial donation, please visit https:// acresofhopeyouthranch.org/ donate.

Lawn Salon Landscaping Services LLC is proud to support Acres of Hope Youth Ranch and their great work.

We hope you will support their cause.

Blower Truck Service 1-844-722-7369 • lawnsalonpnw.com • mulchworxnw.com

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Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Fund: Bringing the Joy of Christmas Since 1949 Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Fund Year Established — 1949 1215 Anderson Road Mount Vernon, WA 98274 (360) 419-7261 goskagit.com/xmasfund/ Facebook – 2021 Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Fund The Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Fund’s annual goal has remained steadfast for more than 70 years: to help families in need celebrate the joyous time of Christmas.

The Christmas Fund provides toys, stuffed animals, books, knit hats, and a holiday meal

to families that need some help celebrating Christmas.

The Fund can also match up sponsors (individuals, families, organizations, or businesses) to directly help a family in our community.

Qualifying families live in Skagit County, have custody

of one or more dependent children under the age of 18, and family income under 150% of the Federal Poverty guidelines. The fund typically has around 50 sponsors who help 100 families directly, with another 1,700 families going to the Skagit County Fairgrounds to pick up their gift bags.

The Christmas Fund was started by the Skagit Valley Herald newspaper in 1949, and currently operates with the assistance

Christmas Fund

of two paid temporary staff and 100 volunteers under the direction of Lynn Postler. it is made possible by the support of local businesses, organizations, and individuals. In 2020, even in midst of pandemic, there were 97 volunteers who donated more than 891 hours of their time to the fund’s mission, while cash donations were received from 607 donors along with nearly 60 in-kind donors.

These contributions made a Christmas celebration possible for 1,867 families with 5,191 children.

The majority of the Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Fund’s financial support comes from individual donors and grants, with 86% of donations going directly to families in need who sign up for the program.

Volunteers are needed

for the kids of Skagit County 360.419.7261

goskagit.com/xmasfund christmasfund@skagitpublishing.com

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Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Fund from mid-November until Christmas (call 360-4197261). Toy donations may be dropped off at the Skagit County Fairgrounds, 1410 Virginia Street, Mount Vernon, WA (please call 360-419-7261 to make an appointment to drop off gifts). Donations may also be made through the fund’s website (goskagit.com/ xmasfund/; select “Donate”),

or by mailing a check to Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Fund, 1215 Anderson Road, Mount Vernon, WA 98274 to help maintain a reserve of funds to sustain the program for many years and families to come.

Skagit Valley Herald

is proud to support its local communities this holiday season.

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Argus Fund Strives to Normalize the Lives of At-Risk Children with Specific Needs Argus Fund Year Established – 1948 1215 Anderson Road, Mount Vernon, WA 98274 (360) 424-3251 (main office for Skagit Publishing) www.goskagit.com/argus_fund/ According to the most recent federal data, in 2020 there were more than 400,000 children in foster care in the United States, ranging in age from infants to 21-years-old.

Children and teens enter the foster care system due to neglect or abuse. Children in foster care as well as other at-risk youth, often need additional support for some of

the things that other children may take for granted.

The Argus Fund helps normalize the lives of at-risk children, including foster children, children and youth facing the direst circumstances that can be helped through their case workers, and children dependent upon state assistance through the WA State Department of Children,

Youth and Families (DCYF) that live in Skagit County. Some of the ways that the Argus Fund supports at-risk youth include driver’s education, clothing, diapers, sports fees, graduation gowns, summer camps, toiletries, swim lessons, dance classes, bus passes, winter coats, gas cards, eyeglasses, and prom dresses.

At the request of Skagit County Superior Court Judge Stafford, the Argus Fund was founded in 1948 by Steve and Wilma Mergler, publishers of the Mount Vernon Argus newspaper. Judge Stafford was concerned about the children in juvenile probation who had no family for gifts at Christmas time. The Merglers made a plea to their readers

TOGETHER

WE WE CAN CAN BRING BRING JOY JOY THROUGHOUT THROUGHOUT THE THE YEAR YEAR TO TO AT-RISK AT-RISK YOUTH YOUTH AND AND FOSTER FOSTER CHILDREN CHILDREN IN IN SKAGIT SKAGIT COUNTY COUNTY www.goskagit.com/argus_fund/

to meet this need, and the fund began. Now run by Skagit Publishing, the goal of the Argus Fund continues to be to provide those little things in children’s lives that make such a BIG difference. The fund operates with one temporary staff and 20 volunteers, led by Administrator, Lynn Postler.

The Argus Fund has remained small, but that’s where its specialty lies.

The fund is a valuable tool for caseworkers and foster parents to quickly meet specific needs with minimal paperwork. It truly is the “Fund of Last Resort.” The fund’s short-term goal is to fulfill all requests from caseworkers for at-risk youth and its long-term goal is to maintain a reserve

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Argus Fund

of funds so the program may continue for years to come.

The Argus Fund has helped thousands of children in Skagit County over the past 73 years with 100% of individual donations and grants going back to supporting at-risk children in our community. To

learn more about this charity, visit goskagit.com/argus_ fund/. To make a donation, visit the Argus Fund website and select Argus Fund Donation Receipt or mail a check to Argus Fund, 1215 Anderson Road, Mount Vernon, WA 98274.

SKAGITPUBLISHING

Empowering the Community

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Island Hospital Foundation’s Mission is to Raise Funds to Support Island Hospital and its Commitment to Community Health Island Hospital Foundation Year Established – 1978 1211 24th Street, Anacortes, WA | (360) 299-4201 www.myihf.org www. facebook.com/myihf Island Hospital is a community hospital and our community’s support is vital to ensuring quality healthcare remains close to home for our residents and visitors alike.

Because Island Hospital is also an independent hospital, every dollar raised stays in our

community to help those who are sick, injured, or hurting.

Island Hospital Foundation believes that access to healthcare is not only a basic human need, it is a human right. For over 40 years, the Island Hospital Foundation has been driving philanthropic

support to sustain and expand local healthcare through Island Hospital.

Island Hospital provides a comprehensive range of medical and behavioral health services as well as community health programs to both residents and visitors who are in need of medical care.

Island Hospital Foundation supports the needs of patients and their families cared for by the services of Island Hospital, as well as the staff and community programs at Island Hospital. Island Hospital Foundation has made a difference for thousands in our community through expanded behavioral health services; the implementation of new technology, like Tele-ICU, and

continued financial assistance for patients battling cancer.

Over 500 patients who visited the Island Hospital Emergency Department in 2021 were served by a social worker. This social worker position is 100% funded by the generosity of donors. Without this charitable support, hundreds of patients would not have received the social or emotional resources they need.

Most recently, the Island Hospital Foundation has been raising funds for a new Health & Wellness Center that will serve the community’s physical and psychological needs before they become a crisis. This center will expand Island Hospital’s community approach to healthcare

Creating a healthy community.

Together.

Islandhospitalfoundation.org

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Island Hospital Foundation by offering low to no-cost services and robust health education programs for the community.

Island Hospital Foundation was started by a group of community members who wanted to ensure that Anacortes and the surrounding region had access to quality local healthcare.

In the late 1970’s this group rallied philanthropic support to sustain the services of Island Hospital. The charity became a registered nonprofit in 1978 and is currently run by three staff (two fulltime, one part-time), up to 21 volunteer Board of Directors members per the Bylaws (there are currently 15 active board members), and dozens of community volunteers who help with the fundraising events.

The organization’s shortterm goal is to empower Island Hospital to carry the weight of the COVID-19 pandemic while at the same time expand services, welcome new providers, and dare to build new programs.

The long-term goal is to create a healthy community by removing barriers to healthcare, providing the community with the latest in technological advances and medical innovations, and expanding community health programs all through the services of Island Hospital.

The majority of the organizations’ funding comes from individual community members; other sources include local service clubs, businesses, and foundations.

Approximately 75% of donations raised go directly to

support the patients, families and programs of Island Hospital.

Those who want to learn more about the Island Hospital Foundation can visit www.myihf.org or www. facebook.com/myihf, or meet with Executive Director, Janie Crane. The charity’s most urgent need is for funding for technological advancements

Island Hospital Foundation...

The impact of your donation truly touches the lives of hundreds of patients, staff, volunteers, community members, students, and children every day!

in critical care and diagnostic imaging. To make a donation online please visit www.myihf. org/donate or mail checks to: Island Hospital Foundation, 1211 24th Street, Anacortes, WA 98221. The foundation also accepts gifts of stock or property and is always looking for volunteers – please contact Janie at janie.crane@ islandhospital.org.

Troy W. Kunz, CFP®, AAMS® Financial Advisor

1120 12th Street Anacortes, WA 98221 360-293-4581

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

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Skagit Friendship House Strives to Empower the Local Houseless Population

by Feeding, Sheltering, Clothing, and Healing While Reflecting the Heart of God Skagit Friendship House Year Established – 1986 1002 S 3rd St. Mount Vernon WA 98273 (360) 336-6138 www.skagitfriendshiphouse.org www.facebook.com/skagitfriendshiphouse The Skagit Friendship House is the largest provider of homeless services in Skagit County, serving those in need for 35 years. The charity was founded by a group of

churches that saw a growing problem of homelessness and decided to come together to start a shelter.

The organization is run by 30 employees and over 100

HUNGER & HOMELESSNESS NEVER TAKE A HOLIDAY. PLEASE GIVE TODAY.

volunteers, led by Executive Director Tina Tate. It is really an inspiring story: Tina was once a client of the Friendship House and because of FH she was able to turn her life around and thrive.

The Skagit Friendship House is one-of-a-kind in Skagit County. It makes an immediate, impactful difference by sheltering more than a hundred houseless people per day, providing meal service that helps reduce the food insecurity in the county, and by helping to keep people warm and dry through the cold and wet months.

The Skagit Friendship House offers a “hand up”, not just a handout. The idea is to empower those in need so they can get back onto their feet by offering a wide range of services, including shelter, meals, clothing and necessities, as well as programs to help with job placement, addiction issues and mental health. Their short-term goal is to ease the suffering of our houseless neighbors. Long-term, it is to reduce the amount of people in our community suffering because of lack of housing. In order to meet these goals, the organization needs funding

As you gather with family and friends this holiday season, please remember Friendship House. We welcome those who would otherwise be hungry, cold, and alone. Last year we served 50,000 meals and provided housing, basic needs, and compassion to thousands.

Please open your heart and send a generous donation today: Friendship House, PO Box 517, Mount Vernon, WA 98273. You may also donate online at www.skagitfriendshiphouse.org.

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Skagit Friendship House – support from individual donations and other sources, depending on the program. A full 80% of all donations goes back to helping the homeless community in Skagit County.

The organization’s most urgent need is funding but volunteers and non-financial

donations are also greatly needed. To learn more about the charity, please visit www. skagitfriendshiphouse.org. To make a donation, please visit the Skagit Friendship House website or mail a check to PO Box 517, Mount Vernon WA 98273.

Enclosed is my check in the amount of $ Name: Address:

Friendship House is a 501(c)3 charitable organization.

Your gift is tax-deductible.

City: Phone:

State: Email:

Zip:

www.SkagitFriendshipHouse.org | (360) 336-6138

YES! I believe in the miracles of the season!

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In the Face of Pandemic, Skagit Valley Family YMCA’s Mission Endures Skagit Valley Family YMCA Year Established — 1911 1901 Hoag Road, Mount Vernon, WA 98273 (360) 336-1622 www.skagitymca.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/SkagitValleyFamilyYMCA Instagram: www.instagram.com/skagitymca/ Oasis Teen Shelter Facebook: www.facebook.com/ YMCAoasis Oasis Teen Shelter Instagram: www.instagram.com/ ymcaoasis/ The Skagit Valley Family YMCA creates positive community change through relationships by empowering the mind, body and spirit of ALL. The “Y” is a cause-driven organization focused on three

key areas: youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The organization believes a strong community can only be achieved when we invest in our kids, our health, and our neighbors.

The pandemic challenged the Y in unique ways with the loss of members, reductions in programs, and reduced service capacities. While swimming and recreational programs at the 60,000 square foot Hoag Road facility and Bakerview Sports Center paused, childcare and Oasis services continued to operate. Oasis services include an overnight shelter, dropin day program, and street outreach for youth ages 13-17.

In spite of the challenges, the Y got creative to meet community needs. New partnerships formed and continue to emerge with entities like the Skagit County

Public Health Department, Skagit Preschool and Resource Center (SPARC), Children of the Valley (COV), Northwest Youth Services, and the Mount Vernon, Burlington-Edison, Anacortes and Sedro-Woolley School Districts.

The Y recognizes several emerging trends with our neighbors who are struggling to access basic necessities like housing, rampant mental health concerns among youth, and an overall sense of disconnection from one another. The Y is working hard to address these challenges – virtually every program reaches some demographic of the community.

As we approach a new year, the team at the Y continues to identify gaps, leverage funding, and bridge divides to better serve the Skagit Valley.

The YMCA was originally founded in London in 1844.

Since then, it has grown into a mission-driven organization

IMPACT SKAGIT, IMPACT YOUR COMMUNITY When you join or give to the Skagit Valley Family YMCA, your gift supports stability for youth experiencing homelessness, access to affordable childcare for families, and equitable access to multigenerational health and wellness programs.Your support enables the Y to continue delivering impactful programs that support thousands of our neighbors every year.

Consider supporting the mission driven work we do every day by becoming a member or giving through our Impact Skagit campaign.

www.skagitymca.org/impact | (360) 336-9622 | 1901 Hoag Road, Mount Vernon,WA 98273

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Skagit Valley Family YMCA serving communities all over the world. The Skagit Y was established in 1911 as a Railway Y, providing a safe environment for men working on the railroad. The Y currently employs 142 people and engages a handful of volunteers, including an entirely voluntary Board of Directors.

Volunteers support throughout the Y’s programs at Hoag Road, Bakerview Sports Center, ten childcare sites and Oasis programs.

The Y’s funding comes from several sources, including memberships and paid programs, local and state contracts, grants and foundation giving, and individual giving and contributions. Funds enable the Y to continue supporting low-income families and individuals, youth experiencing homelessness,

and equitable access to a wide breadth of programs that support thousands in our community every year. In-kind donations of winter clothing items for Oasis are currently

being accepted at the Y’s Hoag Road facility and the Oasis Teen Shelter.

The Y recently launched their Impact Skagit campaign to engage new members and raise

funds to support their three pillars of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Learn more and give today at skagitymca.org/ impact.

Proud sponsor of The Skagit Valley Family YMCA

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New Earth Recovery Focuses on the Benefits of Safe and Recovery-Focused Housing to Personal Wholeness New Earth Recovery Year Established — 2011 PO Box 1473 Mount Vernon, WA 98273 | (360) 848-9281 www.NERecovery.org Facebook — www.facebook.com/nerecovery.org/ In a 2018 Community Health Assessment, Skagit County resoundingly identified the opioid crisis as its greatest concern — one that has worsened with the pandemic.

According to the National Center for Health Statistics, 93,000 people died in the U.S. in 2020 due to drug overdose.

In Skagit County, recovery housing (and affordable housing in general) is severely limited, keeping people stuck in cycles of addiction and incarceration and straining already-stressed community services.

New Earth Recovery offers a long-term, holistic,

structured residential recovery program, providing close staff accompaniment, life skills, new community, therapeutic gardening activities, and a relapse prevention process called Genesis, where residents explore the roots of their addictions and experience deep emotional healing.

The majority of the program graduates are now employed, pursuing school, reunited with families, volunteering, and giving back to the community that supported them.

For many years, New Earth

Recovery co-founders Alan and Amy Muia served as volunteer chaplains to inmates at the Skagit County Jail, where they met many people who needed a home where they could receive intensive and wholistic support for their recovery efforts. In 2011, the Muias established New Earth Recovery and opened Faith House, a women’s entry-level home. Today, New Earth Recovery operates five recovery homes in Skagit County and employs seven staff members, including three

New Earth Recovery is a non-profit Christian organization operating a residential recovery program in Skagit Valley.

New Earth Recovery loves, strengthens and accompanies people in recovery from substance addiction through faith-based healing community.

We have five homes: Faith House and Willow House (for women) and The Foundation, The Trust and Cedar House (for men).

To Donate Go To: www.NERecovery.org

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New Earth Recovery graduates of the program.

New Earth Recovery is funded primarily through individual contributions and is also supported by Skagit County Public Health, grants from regional foundations, program fees paid by residents, and church partnerships.

More than 90% of donations directly support resident needs and their recovery program participation. For residents to be successful upon graduation, they need affordable housing and employment, so the organization is seeking relationships with landlords and employers and is looking for a large rental home in Mount Vernon for entrylevel men in recovery as it pursues a capital construction project. The organization is also investigating a recovery program for couples and

NOEL

parents with custody of children.

New Earth Recovery encourages the community to share its contact information with anyone who is struggling with substance use disorder.

The intake phone is 360-8489281, or send a message through the website contact page, www.NERecovery.org.

The public is also invited to Celebrate a Celtic Christmas with the acclaimed Noël harp ensemble and benefit New Earth Recovery. The event takes place on Tuesday December 7 at 7:00 pm, First Christian Reformed Church in Mount Vernon. Harps, flute, strings, poetry, and treats. Freewill offerings are encouraged…and masks are required.

harp ensemble

The Magic of Christmas

in Concert

A Musical Benefit for New Earth Recovery

7:00 pm Tuesday Dec. 7, 2021 First Christian Reformed Church

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Skagit Publishing is grateful for charities that help foster a lasting community!

Helping Hearts & Hands 24703 Wicker Rd. Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 360.856.2211 helpingheartsandhands.org IRIS 1050 Larrabee Ave. Suite 104 #498 Bellingham, WA 98225 360.935.1688 irisnw.org SV College Foundation 2405 East College Way Mt. Vernon, WA 98273 360.416.7717 skagitfoundation.org Children’s Museum of Skagit County 432 Fashion Way Burlington, WA 98233 360.757.8888 skagitchildrensmuseum.net EyeWitness Missions 3280 Jerns Rd Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 360.421.4506 Underground Ministries PO Box 174 Mt Vernon, WA 98273 undergroundministries.org Family Promise of Skagit Valley PO Box 335 Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 360.854.0743 familypromiseskagit.weebly.com

Skagit Adult Day Program 1208 7th Street, Anacortes, WA 98221 360.755.1235 116 North Skagit Street, Burlington, WA 98233 360.755.1235 skagitadultdayprogram.org United Way 607 S 2nd St Mt Vernon, WA 98273 360.755.9521 unitedwayskagit.org SPARC 320 Pacific Pl Mt Vernon, WA 98273 360.416.7570 sparckids.org Youth Dynamics 850 Haggen Dr Burlington, WA 98233 360.757.1337 yd.org Acres of Hope Youth Ranch 6665 Rickreall Rd. Independence, OR 97351 503.507.6500 acresofhopeyouthranch.org Boys & Girls Club of Skagit PO Box 947, 1605 Williamm Way STE B Mt Vernon, WA 98273 360.419.3723 skagitclubs.org

Brigid Collins Family Support Center 917 S 3rd St Mt Vernon, WA 98273 360.428.6622 brigidcollins.org Celtic Arts Foundation 1124 Cleveland Ave Mt Vernon, WA 98273 360.416.4934 celticarts.org Center for Independence 502 State Ave Suite B Marysville, WA 98270 360.393.3890 cfi-wa.org DVSAS 1521 Leigh Way Mt Vernon, WA 98273 360.336.9591 skagitdvsas.org EDASC 1932 E College Way Mt Vernon, WA 98273 360.336.6114 skagit.org Farm Haven Rescue 10186 Warfield Rd Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 425.583.0346 farmhavenrescue.org

Fidalgo Danceworks 901 3rd St Anacortes, WA 98221 360.299.8447 fidalgodanceworks.org Friends of Skagit County 419 S. First Street #207 Mt Vernon, WA 98273 360.419.0988 friendsofskagitcounty.org Friendship House 1002 S 3rd St Mt Vernon, WA 98273 360.336.6138 skagitfriendshiphouse.org Habitat for Humanity 1022 Riverside Dr Mt Vernon, WA 98273 360.428.9402 skagithabitat.com Helping Hands Food Bank 24703 Wicker Rd Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 360.856.2211 helpinghandsfoodbank.org Humane Society of Skagit Valley 18841 Kelleher Rd Burlington, WA 98233 360-757-0445 skagithumane.org/ Island Hospital Foundation 1211 24th St Anacortes, WA 98221 360-299-4201 islandhospitalfoundation.org

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Skagit Publishing is grateful for charities that help foster a lasting community!

Kiwanis Anacortes 420 O Avenue Anacortes, WA 98221 360-293-2921 anacorteskiwanis.org

NOAH 31300 Brandstrom Road Stanwood, WA 98292 360-629-7055 thenoahcenter.org

Sarvey Wildlife Care Center 13106 148th St. NE Arlington, WA 98223 360-435-4817 sarveywildlife.org

Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland 414 Snoqualmie Street Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-336-3974 skagitonians.org

Kiwanis MV PO Box 216 Mount Vernon, WA 98273 facebook.com/MVNoonKiwanis

NW Regional Council 301 Valley Mall Way, Suite 100 Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-428-1301 nwrcwa.org

Legal Aid Non-Profit 1202 South 2nd Street, Suite D Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-230-8101 https://www.skagitlegalaid.org/

Secret Harbor 225 N Walnut Street Burlington, WA 98233 360-755-5700 secretharbor.org

SPARC Administration 320 Pacific Place Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-416-7570 sparckids.org

Northwest Youth 2021 E College Way #216 Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-336-1988 nwys.org

SPOT 930 S Spruce St Burlington, WA 98233 360-336-5388 savingpetsoneatatime.org

Love Inc. of Skagit County P.O. Box 2057 Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-419-7061 skagitloveinc.org/

Opportunity Council 111 Cornwall Ave Bellingham, WA 98225 360-734-5121 https://www.oppco.org/

Skagit Community Foundation 1220 Memorial Hwy, Suite C Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-419-3181 skagitcf.org Skagit Conservation Education Alliance 10441 Bayview-Edison Rd Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-428-1054 skagitcleanwater.org

Sustainable Connection Creekside Build 1701 Ellis St STE 221 Bellingham, WA 98225 360-647-7093 https://sustainableconnections.org/

Padilla Bay Foundation 10381 Bayview Edison Rd Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-757-3234 padillabayfoundation.org

Skagit County Community Action 330 Pacific Place Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-716-7585 communityactionskagit.org

Teddie Bears Four Kids in Crisis 209 Ferry St Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 360-755-3289

Salmonberry Community Land Trust 41638 S Skagit Hwy Concrete, WA 98284 360-826-4004 finneyfarm.org

Skagit Gleaners 1021 Riverside Dr Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-848-1045 skagitgleaners.org

Mental Health Ombuds Service 330 Pacific Pl Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-416-7004 hca.wa.gov Midwifery Education Accreditation Council 105 N 1st St La Conner, WA 98257 360-466-2080 NAMI 360-313-7080 https://namiskagit.org/

Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Fund 1215 Anderson Rd Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-419-7263 goskagit.com/xmasfund

United Way PO Box 451 Burlington, WA 98233 360-755-9521 unitedwayskagit.org YMCA 1901 Hoag Road Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-336-9622 skagitymca.org

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