Editor,

On Saturday, May 4, volunteers from Hearts & Hammers spread out across Whidbey Island to assist homeowners with needed repairs, improvements and maintenance to allow these owners to continue to stay in their homes in a safe and healthy manner.

This annual Work Day has been a tradition in South Whidbey for 25 years and in Central Whidbey for the past 11 years. This year for the first time, we had teams from a future North Whidbey Hearts & Hammers join Central Whidbey Hearts & Hammers to help homeowners north of Coupeville.

Again this year, it was a successful and rewarding day for all involved.

Homeowners received the help they asked for; volunteers got the joy of helping their neighbors; and all developed a better sense of community and the value of participating in a group effort. The Board of Central Whidbey Hearts & Hammers wants to thank all who contributed to making this another success. We especially thank the homeowners who requested help and welcomed their neighbors into their homes to complete the various projects.

We also thank the many volunteers who contributed their time, notably those professionals who contributed their skill and knowledge. And, we thank the many donors who provide financial resources so that we can provide the materials required at no cost to the homeowners. Finally, we thank the county commissioners and staff for their support and for waiving fees on the trash and debris collected on Work Day.

We are looking forward to seeing everyone next year.

Wilson Binger, president

Central Whidbey Hearts & Hammers Board