This year we are requesting $25,000 to expand access for youth during the upcoming program year, and ensure that every child on Orcas Island can participate in our programs. Grant money will directly support participation and reduce financial barriers for families, making summer camp, after-school programs, music, and art opportunities accessible to all. By investing in access for kids, you help us build a stronger, more inclusive community where every young person can learn, grow, and thrive regardless of their family’s financial circumstances.

The Funhouse Commons serves youth, ages birth–18 in our rural island community, where geographic isolation, limited employment, and high housing costs create significant financial barriers. Affordable, structured, out-of-school programming is limited but essential for youth safety, development, and connection. Each year, we serve 600+ young people through after-school, enrichment, leadership, and summer programs that foster academic engagement, social-emotional growth, creativity, and belonging.

In 2025, we provided over 9,400 enrichment activities. Families pay an average of $8.75 per activity, while the true cost is approximately $35. To ensure equitable access, we must raise more than $250,000 annually beyond registration fees to fund scholarships and staffing. We never turn a child away due to inability to pay.

Our $25,000 request will directly support scholarships, increasing access for low and moderate-income families, and strengthen connection, confidence, and belonging in our island youth.