Summer Asks Something of Us

Summer here isn't a season of rest — it's a season of roots taking hold, of abundant growth, and of a team showing up for the land the same way it shows up for us.

The light stays late these days, stretching the hours we have to work, to walk the trails, to notice what's changing underfoot. And so much is changing. The upper parking lot — still closed except for ADA access and drop-offs — is still undergoing restoration efforts after a minor landslide this past winter. What looks like a quiet, closed-off space is actually the heart of careful, ongoing work, as we continue working diligently with Island County and ROOTS Restoration to restore the wetland with care.

Each summer, tending this place of such abundant, growing nature — the trails, the gardens, the facilities, each other — asks something of all of us. And this season, we could use more hands.

If you've ever wanted to be part of what's happening here, there's a place for you — and not only in the garden or on the trails. This summer and fall, we're also looking for volunteers to help with the gala and other community events: parking, shuttling, greeting guests, and helping with departures. If the physical labor of working on the land isn't accessible to you, this is a beautiful and genuinely meaningful way to be part of the community's care for this place, and for each other.

If you're interested or have questions, reach out to volunteer@whidbeyinstitute.org or madisun@whidbeyinstitute.org directly.

Summer doesn't slow down here. But it does remind us why the work matters — and how much lighter it feels when we do it together.

Gratefully, 

Madisun Elizabeth Clark
Managing Director — Committed to Serving Place and Community