From Woodpiles to Warm Homes: Island Neighbors’ Helping Hands at Work
From Woodpiles to Warm Homes: Island Neighbors’ Helping Hands at Work
On San Juan Island, “neighbors helping neighbors” isn’t just a feel-good phrase—it’s the driving force behind the Island Neighbors program at the Joyce L. Sobel Family Resource Center. Powered by dedicated volunteers, this initiative goes beyond simple acts of kindness, offering essential support to residents in need. From clearing yards to gathering firewood, Island Neighbors is there with a helping hand, making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Warming Homes Through Our Firewood Initiative
As the colder months approach, keeping islanders warm has become a top priority for Island Neighbors. Thanks to partnerships with generous local businesses, volunteers have been hard at work gathering and cutting firewood to support residents who need it most.
This collaboration is a shining example of how community efforts can make a real impact. Recently, the San Juan Island Brewing Co. and Coldwell Banker helped Island Neighbors collect and distribute much-needed firewood, providing a vital resource for islanders who may struggle to prepare for the winter season.
With temperatures dropping, this simple yet essential act of kindness will be a lifeline for many. It’s a powerful reminder that when local businesses and volunteers come together, the entire community thrives.
Transforming Spaces, One Yard at a Time
Recently, Island Neighbors stepped in to assist Megeara Noland and her mother, Jeanetta. Faced with a messy and unsafe woodpile area, Megeara reached out for help, and Island Neighbors showed up in full force—armed with a 4-person crew, a bulldozer, and a dump truck. Their mission? To transform the cluttered yard into a space that’s safer and easier to navigate before the cold, wet months set in.
The result was nothing short of amazing. As Megeara expressed in her heartfelt message:
“You guys did an incredible miracle job on Mom’s woodpile area! It will be so much easier and safer for us both to navigate in the coming cold, wet months. Mom is also very grateful and relieved… You really made a huge difference!“
Jeanetta’s smile when she saw her perfectly organized woodpile said it all—sometimes, small acts of kindness have the biggest impact. It’s moments like these that make the work of Island Neighbors so meaningful.
A Helping Hand for All Who Need It
The Island Neighbors program offers practical support to San Juan Island’s aging and disabled residents, as well as those recovering from injuries or surgeries. Whether it’s stacking firewood, clearing a yard, or providing transportation, our volunteers step in to make life just a little bit easier for those in need.
The spirit of generosity and compassion that fuels this program is what makes our island community truly special. Each act of service, big or small, has a lasting impact on the lives of our neighbors.
If you or someone you know could use a hand, or if you or your business would like to get involved in lending a helping hand, let us know!
To learn more, call the Joyce L. Sobel Family Resource Center at 360-378-5246 or Colleen Clancy, Island Neighbors Coordinator at 360-472-2798.