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Giving Back Together at YMCA Camp Casey
One of our favorite traditions at Windermere Real Estate Whidbey Island and Windermere Property Management is participating in Windermere’s annual Community Service Day. Since 1984, Windermere agents and staff have dedicated a day each year to giving back. Together they have contributed more than one million volunteer hours to support local organizations and community projects. We’re proud to continue this longstanding tradition and invest in the communities where we live, work, and play. For 2026 we’re giving back together at YMCA Camp Casey.
This year:
This year, our Windermere Whidbey Island and Property Management teams spent the day volunteering at YMCA Camp Casey in Coupeville. We joined forces with Jake Carlson’s team to help tackle a variety of projects throughout the camp. Some of those projects included gardening, landscaping, and furniture building. It was incredibly rewarding to roll up our sleeves and contribute to maintaining a place that serves thousands of youths, families, and community members each year.
About YMCA Camp Casey:
YMCA Camp Casey has a rich history on Whidbey Island. The camp is located on the historic grounds of the former Fort Casey military reservation. It offers transformative outdoor education programs, youth camps, leadership development opportunities, and family retreats. With its stunning waterfront setting and diverse programming, Camp Casey provides a welcoming environment where young people can build confidence, develop new skills, and create lifelong memories. The work done by volunteers helps ensure the camp remains a safe, beautiful, and inspiring place for future generations to enjoy.
Collaboration didn’t stop there:
Our day was made even better thanks to the generous support of Global Credit Union Home Loans. They sponsored lunch for all the volunteers. Sharing a meal together gave everyone an opportunity to connect, recharge, and celebrate the progress we made throughout the day. We were thrilled to have Liz Carlson from Land Title and Escrow join us. Her willingness to jump right in and lend a hand exemplified the spirit of collaboration and community that makes events like Community Service Day so meaningful.
What it all means:
Being part of Community Service Day is a reminder of the difference we can make when we come together to support our community. We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with organizations like YMCA Camp Casey and to be part of a company that believes in giving back. A heartfelt thank you to YMCA Camp Casey for welcoming us, to our community partners for their support, and to every volunteer who dedicated their time and energy. It’s an honor to be part of a tradition that strengthens our community. We look forward to continuing that commitment for years to come.
From our participants:
“What a great way to spend Eric and I’s 25th Community Service Day with Windermere.” -Aleshia Mitten, Co-Owner
“It was refreshing to see the Real Estate and Property Management departments of Windermere to come together to do a project for the community. I enjoyed every bit of getting dirt under my fingernails and bonding with everyone. What a great way to start the weekend.” -Adella Sanders, Property Manager
“I’ve truly enjoyed participating in our Community Service Day each year for the past 9 years and each experience reminds me how fortunate I am to be part of a company that truly values giving back to the communities we serve. This year, our team spent the day volunteering at YMCA Camp Casey. It was wonderful to spend time working alongside colleagues, helping with projects that will benefit a lot of families and visitors throughout the year. There is something incredibly rewarding about coming together, rolling up our sleeves, and knowing that our efforts are making a positive impact.” -Simona Groves, Broker
“It was a great day at Camp Casey! I am grateful that our team had the opportunity to connect with them and help wherever we could. I am also hopeful it is the start of a collaboration for many years to come.” -Andrew Hosford, Broker
Can you see yourself as part of this experience next year? Connect with us to talk about starting your Real Estate career today.
Coming Together for a Cause
There is something special about coming together for a cause and gathering around a table with good food, great company, and a shared purpose. Recently, our Windermere Real Estate Oak Harbor and Coupeville offices on Whidbey Island did just that. Agents Simona Groves and Jonathan Young hosted a home made spaghetti lunch fundraiser that brought together agents from both our Oak Harbor and Coupeville offices.
A memorable afternoon
The event was filled with all the ingredients for a memorable afternoon: wine, spaghetti and meatballs, fresh baked sourdough, and a delicious banana pudding. Beyond the meal itself, the day was about connection, generosity, and giving back to the Whidbey Island community that we are so proud to call home.
As Simona, who organized the event, shared:
“We were so excited to host an Italian lunch to support the Windermere Foundation, featuring wine, spaghetti and meatballs, fresh baked sourdough, and a delicious banana pudding. It turned into such a fun and meaningful gathering, bringing agents from both our Oak Harbor and Coupeville offices together to not only raise funds, but to enjoy a great meal and spend some time connecting with one another.
Most importantly, every dollar raised goes directly to the Windermere Foundation, helping support local families and funding the scholarships we offer to students pursuing careers in the trades. It’s a beautiful reminder that when we come together, even something as simple as sharing a meal can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”
Thanks to the generosity of everyone who attended and contributed, the event raised an incredible $1,170 for the Windermere Foundation.
The Windermere Foundation
Those funds will go directly toward supporting local low-income families with children and providing scholarships to students seeking to continue their education and pursue careers in the trades. It’s a mission that is deeply important to our offices, and one we are honored to support year after year. We are currently accepting scholarship applications till April 30th. If interested in applying, please fill out the application here.
Events like this are a reminder that community is about more than where we live but rather about how we care for one another. We are so grateful to everyone who helped make this event such a success and are proud to be part of a community that continues to show up with generosity and heart.
Finding Community on Whidbey Island
Moving to Whidbey Island offers more than just a change of scenery, it’s an invitation to join a warm and welcoming community. Getting involved in local groups and activities is one of the best ways to meet people, stay active, and feel at home quickly.
Here are some great places to start:
Join a Run Club or Outdoor Group
Staying active is easy with Whidbey Island’s natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities. Consider joining groups like the Whidbey Island Running Club or North Whidbey Hiking Enthusiasts, where you’ll not only get exercise but also connect with like-minded locals. Participating in group runs, hikes, or bike rides is a natural way to form friendships while exploring the island’s scenic landscapes.
Connect with Local Farmers Markets
Whidbey Island is known for its vibrant farmers markets, like the Bayview Farmers Market in Langley or the Coupeville Farmers Market. These markets offer more than fresh produce, they are community hubs with local artisans, farmers, and fellow residents. Grab a coffee, browse handmade crafts, and strike up conversations with friendly faces.
Explore Art and Craft Co-ops
If you have a passion for the arts, there is no doubt that you will love Whidbey Island’s creative community. Visit local co-ops like the Penn Cove Gallery in downtown Coupeville or the Whidbey Art Gallery downtown Langley, where you can meet local artists, attend workshops, or participate in art walks. Engaging in these creative spaces opens the door to new friendships and shared experiences.
Attend Festivals and Local Events
Whidbey Island’s calendar is packed with events that bring the community together. Don’t miss these annual favorites: the Whidbey Island Fair, Coupeville Arts & Crafts Festival, or the Mystery Weekend in Langley. Attending these events is a great way to immerse yourself in local culture, meet your neighbors, and create lasting memories.
Get Involved in Community Groups
Whether you are passionate about gardening, music, or volunteering, it is likely that there is a local group to join. Look into organizations like Whidbey Island Grown Cooperative for agricultural enthusiasts, Island Shakespeare Festival for theater lovers, or volunteer opportunities with Good Cheer Food Bank or Habitat for Humanity. Getting involved is a direct path to building meaningful connections on the island.
Make Whidbey Feel Like Home
The key to settling into a new community is active participation. Whether you are hiking with new friends, attending a lively market, or volunteering at a local event, the connections you make will turn Whidbey Island from a new place into a true home.
Ready to make Whidbey Island your home? Let’s connect.
Paragliding at Fort Ebey
Whidbey Island’s unique terrain offers some of the best opportunities for paragliding. One of the best places to go paragliding is Fort Ebey State Park. Follow along to discover why:
Scenic Beauty:
Fort Ebey State Park boasts stunning coastal views and picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal backdrop for paragliding. You’ll soar above lush forests, rugged cliffs, and the sparkling waters of Puget Sound.
Topography:
The park’s topography, with its elevated bluffs and open fields, provides excellent launch sites for paragliders. Most paragliders prefer to take off from what was formerly called parade lawn on the the bluff. The natural terrain and prevailing winds create favorable conditions for safe and thrilling flights. Observers gather to watch the extraordinary sport.
Experienced Community:
Whidbey Island has an active paragliding community with experienced pilots who are familiar with the local conditions. This makes it an ideal place for both beginners and experienced paragliders to enjoy the sport.
Variety of Flights:
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing coastal glide or an adrenaline-pumping descent from the bluffs, Fort Ebey State Park offers a range of flight options to suit different skill levels and preferences.
Access to Amenities:
The park provides convenient access to amenities such as parking, restrooms, and picnic areas, enhancing the overall paragliding experience.
Wildlife Viewing:
As you glide through the skies, you may have the opportunity to spot local wildlife, including eagles, hawks, and other bird species, adding an extra layer of excitement to your flight. If you are interested in birdwatching too check out this article.
Community Support:
The paragliding community on Whidbey Island is known for its support and camaraderie. Local pilots are often willing to provide guidance and share their knowledge with newcomers.
It’s important to note that paragliding can be a physically demanding sport, and safety should always be a top priority. If you’re new to paragliding, consider taking lessons from a certified instructor to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Fort Ebey State Park’s combination of natural beauty and favorable flying conditions makes it a standout destination for paragliding enthusiasts on Whidbey Island. If Paragliding brought you to Whidbey Island and you like it so much you would like to call it home, connect with us.
Random Acts of Kindness
Performing random acts of kindness can be a great way to brighten someone’s day and make the world a better place. The best part is that these acts of kindness don’t have to be big or extravagant – even small gestures can make a big impact.
We have compiled five simple things you can do as a random act of kindness:
- Buy coffee for the person behind you in line: Next time you’re waiting in line for your morning caffeine fix, consider buying a coffee for the person behind you. Not only will you make their day, but you will also inspire them to pay it forward.
- Create kind notes for your mail carrier: Our mail carriers work hard every day, regardless of the weather, to ensure that our packages and letters reach us safely. Take a few minutes to create some kind notes thanking them for their hard work. You can leave them in your mailbox for your carrier. You can also leave a small gift, like a snack or a drink, as a token of your appreciation.
- Do something kind for your significant other: Whether it is doing the dishes, folding the laundry, or making their favorite meal, doing something kind for your significant other can show them how much you care. It doesn’t have to be a big gesture – sometimes the little things mean the most.
- Pick up trash at the park: The environment is something we all share, and taking care of it is everyone’s responsibility. Next time you are at the park, take a few minutes to pick up any litter you see. Not only will it help keep the park clean, but it will also set a good example for others. You can find Washington State Parks here.
- Write a gratitude letter: Finally, taking the time to write a gratitude letter can be a meaningful way to show someone how much they mean to you. It could be a friend, a family member, or even a coworker – just take a few minutes to express your gratitude and let them know how much you appreciate them.
In conclusion, performing random acts of kindness is a simple but powerful way to make a difference in someone’s life. Whether it’s buying coffee for a stranger or picking up trash at the park, every act of kindness has the potential to make the world a better place. So the next time you have the opportunity to do something kind, seize it – you never know how much it might mean to someone else.
Navigating Paradise: On a Ferry Ride
Who says you can’t navigate paradise from the comfort of a ferry ride? Our experience when taking a ferry to or from Whidbey Island is that it offers a unique and picturesque experience that is packed with charm and several noteworthy advantages. Follow along to find out the top 10 reasons we suggest you take a ferry the next time you need to cross the water.
Scenic Beauty:
The Washington State Ferries treat passengers to breathtaking views of the Puget Sound, surrounding islands, and the majestic Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges. It’s a visual feast for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Relaxation:
Our ferries offer a peaceful and leisurely mode of transportation. Not only do you not have to navigate the hustle and bustle or sit in stop-and-go traffic to get to your destination, but ferry passengers can unwind on deck, enjoy the fresh sea breeze, or simply gaze at the tranquil waters, creating a serene and enjoyable journey to your destination.
Convenience:
The ferry system is an integral part of the Pacific Northwest’s transportation network. It offers a convenient way to connect Whidbey Island to the mainland, making it accessible for both commuters and tourists.
Time to Unplug:
Depending on who you are, you will either love or hate, the absence of Wi-Fi on most ferries. However, this absence of connectivity encourages travelers to unplug from the digital world, promoting relaxation and providing an opportunity to disconnect, unwind, and take in the spectacular atmosphere surrounding you.
Wildlife Watching:
Keep an eye out for marine life during the journey. It’s common to spot seals, sea lions, dolphins, and various seabirds while crossing the Sound. If you get to snap a picture, don’t forget to tag us at @windermere_whidbey_island on Instagram.
Community Experience:
Passengers often strike up conversations and share stories while riding the ferries which fosters a sense of community. It’s a chance to connect with fellow travelers or engage with locals who cherish their island home. Such an opportunity for learning about the island if you are new here. If you are hoping to learn more about the island or looking for a place to live and aren’t currently working with a realtor, connect with us here so we can be your guide.
Adventure Starting Point:
For tourists, the ferry ride to Whidbey Island marks the beginning of an exciting adventure. It is the gateway to exploring the island’s charming towns, outdoor activities, and natural wonders.
Child-Friendly:
Ferries are child-friendly, so you don’t have to feel like you can’t go because you have kids. You can stay in your own vehicle if you choose to do so, however, many ferries offer play areas and tables for kids. In fact, the experiences of riding a ferry can offer opportunities to teach children about marine life and navigation.
Cafes and Dining:
Many ferries feature cafes or dining options where passengers can enjoy a meal or snack while taking in the views.
Sunsets and Sunrises:
This might just be one of our favorites. The early morning and evening ferry rides provide an opportunity to witness stunning sunrises and sunsets over the water, creating magical moments for travelers. We highly suggest you experience a sunset or sunrise ferry ride at least once in your life time.
In essence, taking a ferry to or from Whidbey Island is not just a means of transportation; it’s an experience that adds to the overall allure of the island, combining convenience with a touch of adventure and a generous serving of natural beauty. Click here to check out the Washington State Ferries schedules and to book your next ride. If you have fallen in love with Whidbey and are considering staying connect with us here.
Penn Cove Park
Welcome to Penn Cove Park. There is no doubt you will find a home you like here. There is an array of newer and older homes amongst this quiet community on the northern shoreline of Penn Cove off Monroe Landing. The central location between Oak Harbor and Coupeville provides not only more options for educational opportunities but also quick access to all the amenities both cities have to offer.
What sets this neighborhood apart from some of the others you might find on Whidbey Island is that residents not only have access to a private beach, but they also have a boat ramp. During the summer the water is warm enough to swim in because the cove is protected from the strong offshore winds that other water access areas are exposed to, making it likely the warmest beach on Whidbey Island. Not to mention, the incredible views of Penn Cove, gorgeous views of Saratoga Passage and the lovely historic Town of Coupeville. On sunny days you can spot snow covered mountains in the distance and a pod of Orca whales may be playing in the Cove.
One of the major benefits of living here is the short distance to the only Hospital on the island, Whidbey General Hospital. Downtown Coupeville offers quaint restaurants, galleries, shops, and a museum that overlook the cove offering luxurious views making for special trips all year round. Oak Harbor, just north of the neighborhood is home to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island where you will find an array of fast-food restaurants, car washes, and big-name shopping centers. In between the two discover the heart of Whidbey, with family farms like Three Sisters Market, small churches, and one of the very few left in the USA the Blue Fox Drive-in Movies with attractions like arcades, go-carts, and food!
Are you ready to get to know this Whidbey Island neighborhood better? Check it out here.
Have questions? We are happy to help. Connect with us here.
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Staying motivated to achieve your New Years Resolution
It’s that time of year again – the start of a new one filled with possibility and potential. Many of us set New Year’s resolutions with the best of intentions, but sometimes life gets in the way and we find ourselves falling off track. It can be easy to lose motivation and give up on our goals, but it’s important to remember that it’s never too late to get back on track and make progress. If you’re feeling unmotivated and struggling to stay committed to your New Year’s resolutions, there are many things you can do to get back on track and stay motivated. Whether it’s setting small, achievable goals, taking breaks to recharge, or seeking support from friends and family, there are many strategies you can use to regain your motivation and stay committed to your resolutions. So don’t give up – with a little effort and determination, you can achieve your goals and make this year your best one yet!
Here are 8 ideas to consider so you can try to get back on track when you’re feeling unmotivated:
- Set small, achievable goals: Break your larger goals down into smaller, more achievable tasks. This can help you make progress and feel more motivated.
- Take breaks: Taking breaks can help you recharge and come back to your work feeling more energized.
- Find your motivation: Try to identify what is causing your lack of motivation. Once you understand the root cause, you can work on addressing it.
- Change your environment: Sometimes a change of scenery can be enough to boost your motivation. Try working in a different location, or rearrange your workspace to make it more inspiring. If you need a new house, we know a great realtor 🙂.
- Get organized: Having a cluttered or disorganized workspace can be a distraction. Take some time to tidy up and get organized.
- Exercise and eat well: Taking care of your physical health can improve your mental well-being and boost your motivation.
- Seek support: Talk to a friend, family member, or colleague about your lack of motivation. They may be able to offer support and encouragement.
- Make every Monday a “Wonday”: Start your week off on a positive note by setting an intention for the week ahead. This can help you get back on track and stay motivated.
…and If you are considering buying or selling a house, we encourage you to reach out to us. We would be happy to assist you with this process and answer any questions you may have. Connect with us here.
Improving Lifestyles While Reinforcing Independence
Did you know that our North Whidbey Help House offers more than just food? Part of their mission is to, “offer the best assistance possible and assist wherever possible in not only improving lifestyles but striving towards independence from the need for assistance.”
WHERE DOES THE ASSISTANCE COME FROM
They work in combination with other human service agencies within our communities and even offer welfare checkups to those in need. However, they cannot do it all alone. The North Whidbey Help House relies on 96.41% of public funding and the remaining 3.51% from the Washington State Department of Agriculture’s Emergency Food Assistance Program (EFAP).
That means it is donations from people like you and me that personally affect those in need within our community to keep this program running.
DURING THE HOLIDAYS
During the holiday seasons alone in 2021, the help house was able to provide 458-holiday food baskets that fed over 1,870 people. There were 45 families “adopted” for Thanksgiving, and 51 Families for Christmas. Let’s make sure they can offer the same, if not more this year.
With the weather changing here in the Northwest, there is a need for warmer food items like to-go oatmeal bowls where you just add water, hot-hands, pasta, and rice. Easy-to-open items like pop-top cans of meat, cereal, and peanut butter are much appreciated.
WHAT ABOUT HYGIENE
Did you know the help house goes above and beyond supporting those in need with hygiene products too? There is a need for items like toilet paper, toothbrushes, deodorants, and feminine products.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
We urge you to take a moment to clean out your pantries this month and donate any extras you might have that are cluttering up your space. We have made it easy by hosting a drop-off location in our Oak Harbor and Coupeville offices on Whidbey Island for you to drop off your donations.
We know it has been a rough year for a lot of people. Let’s work together to make it slightly easier for those in our community who are struggling to get by.
To kick off this event @WhidbeyIslandLiving has pledged to cut her coffee orders for a week and donate the funds directly to raising funds for the Whidbey Island Help House. If you would like to join in the efforts you can make a money donation here. Once done, message us at @windermere_Whidbey_Island as we would love to publicly thank you on Instagram for your donation and inspire others to do the same!
A Sweet Treat from Zan Fiskum
“Maple Valley raised singer/songwriter Zan Fiskum uses her haunting and beautifully controlled singing to craft ethereal and brooding folk/pop songs.”
If that quote alone doesn’t make you want to get up and listen, I don’t know what will.
Like many of us, Zan grew up in the PNW. Her family volunteered at a diner theater called Auburn Avenue. Like most children, she remembers playing make-believe, except she was playing among the red velvet seats of the auditorium while her family prepared for their performances. When Zan followed suit and took to the stage she was a natural.
“At the age of 12 Zan broke away from the molds of her classical music training and experimented with enmeshing forthright lyrics, cinematic melodies and explosive synth sounds into her songwriting. She went on to release her first 6 singles and achieved over 2 million streams on Spotify alone.”
She found herself and began sharing her unique gift with the world.
“Just 2 years later, Zan made her national debut on NBC’s The Voice as a top 9 finalist and received recognition for her dynamic performing and voice from Billboard magazine, Maggie Rogers, Camila Cabello and the Indigo Girls.”
You might recognize her by her debut album “Sleeping Problems.” To learn more about Zan click here.
She recently has been performing in iconic Seattle venues such as The Moore Theater, The Triple Door, Sasquatch, and more. We are lucky enough to be welcoming her here to Whidbey Island Wednesday, August 10 as part of the Sounds of Summer Concert Series put on by the Oak Harbor Music Festival and Windermere Real Estate Whidbey Island. Mark your calendars every Wednesday evening in August for the first four Wednesdays. In addition to Zan Fiskum on August 10 you can catch Whidbey’s Saratoga Orchestra with featured guests The Gothard Sisters (Aug 3), The Chris Eger Band( Aug 17), and Janie Cribbs and the T.rust Band on (Aug 24). To learn more about the event and others like it click here.
