Community Raises More Than $17,000 for Accessibility at Chinook Enterprises
On September 17, nearly 90 community members, sponsors, donors, elected officials, chamber representatives, board members, community partners, and friends of Chinook Enterprises gathered for This Old House: Make it Accessible, a special open house and fundraiser dedicated to creating a more accessible future for everyone who comes through our doors.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our sponsors and donors, we are proud to share that the event raised just over $17,000, exceeding our fundraising goal of $10,000. Every dollar raised will help support ongoing restroom accessibility renovations and other building improvements that increase independence, dignity, and access for the people we serve.
The evening offered guests an opportunity to experience Chinook in a unique and meaningful way. Through interactive guided tours, visitors explored our facility, learned about accessibility improvements already completed, and saw firsthand where additional renovations are still needed. Along the way, they met employees, customers, and supported staff members whose daily lives are positively impacted by accessible spaces and inclusive supports.
Guests enjoyed refreshments and made new community connections while learning more about Chinook’s mission and services. We were especially grateful to welcome community partners, including Skagit Valley Hospital Catering, whose team highlighted their partnership with our Community Employment Services and Grounds Maintenance programs demonstrating the power of inclusive employment opportunities, which increase individual earning potential and reduce reliance on public systems.
One of the most popular attractions of the evening was the SMASH Booth, where guests safely shattered dishware, symbolically “Breaking Barriers” while supporting a great cause. Combined with a lively raffle, interactive activity stations, and opportunities to connect, the event offered something for everyone while keeping the focus on accessibility and inclusion.
A highlight of the evening was hearing from Advocacy Specialist David Wilder, who shared his personal perspective on the importance of accessibility and the impact it has on people’s ability to fully participate in their communities. His message served as a powerful reminder that accessibility is about more than physical spaces. It is about creating opportunities, removing barriers, and ensuring every individual is welcomed, valued, and included.
The feedback we received from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Guests shared how much they enjoyed the interactive tour experience, learning about Chinook’s work firsthand (many didn’t realize how much we do!), hearing David’s remarks, participating in activities throughout the building, and connecting with the people who make our mission possible every day.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
This event would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors. We are grateful for their investment in accessibility, inclusion, and community impact.
Access Champion – Janicki Industries
Access Builders – Skagit Sign Co. and Impact Washington
Access Supporters – McGregor Benefits, Puget Sound Energy, Print Solutions, Inc., Karla DeCamp Photography
Access Friends – Ashley’s Design, RealtyOne Group Orca/Navy Vet Real Estate
Project Sponsor – Papé Machinery
Accessibility Improvements Continue
The accessibility renovations supported by this campaign will be combined with grants, public and private donations to help phase in updated restroom spaces that better meet the needs of people with mobility challenges, individuals who require assistance from caregivers, and visitors of all abilities. These improvements are an important step toward ensuring everyone who comes to Chinook can navigate our facility safely, comfortably, and with dignity.
While we are celebrating this incredible milestone, our work is not finished. There is still more to do to ensure our facility fully supports the diverse needs of our employees, program participants, visitors, and community partners.
In the News
Our fundraiser was recently featured by the Skagit Valley Herald. Read the article: Chinook Enterprises Hosts Open House Fundraiser
Still Want to Help?
Missed the event but would still like to support accessibility improvements at Chinook? Contributions of any size help move this important project forward and bring us one step closer to creating a facility that is welcoming and accessible for all.
As we look ahead to our year-end giving campaign, we are excited to continue building on the momentum created through This Old House. Together, we are creating a more accessible, inclusive, and welcoming community for everyone.
