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Supporting the Vulnerable Youth in Kitsap and Beyond
In 2023, with the help of our agents and some donations from our community, our office supported two wonderful organizations, The Coffee Oasis and Olive Crest. Both of these nonprofits focus on supporting our local youth, and we are proud partners. To highlight the amazing people who help make these organizations so impactful, we interviewed our points of contact. We hope you are inspired by the way these organizations serve our community.
Addressing Needs
The mission of The Coffee Oasis is “to restore community through compassionate youth programs and coffee businesses.” Our contact, Kari Wax, shared a study done in 2021 called “The Loneliness Experiment”. They found that 40% of 16 to 24-year-olds reported feeling lonely often or very often. When youth feel supported, their confidence is strengthened, and they feel less lonely. Providing a space where teens and young adults can come together and get the resources and support they need is a key part of the important work The Coffee Oasis does. An interesting fact is that the founders didn’t know anything about coffee when they bought the original building in Bremerton in 1997. Their main vision was to reach out to the youth of Bremerton. They learned so much, and The Coffee Oasis has grown so much as well. We now have five cafes in Kitsap and Pierce counties.
Another vital nonprofit organization is Olive Crest. A foster care agency in Kitsap County, Olive Crest supports around 41 licensed families. Additionally, their Independent Living Skills (ILS) Program extends resources to over 125 vulnerable youths who have transitioned out of foster care or are involved in the court system. Their mission is clear: prevent child abuse by strengthening, equipping, and restoring children and families in crisis – one life at a time.
Windermere Silverdale’s Support
Last year, our office held a drive for school supplies for the Olive Crest foster families, and we filled 36 Thanksgiving baskets with essentials for the Olive Crest Independent Living Skills Program. Our contact, Mia Steben, shared, “Partnerships like Windermere’s have a transformative impact on our work, providing crucial support. Our families and youth not only feel supported but also valued, empowering them on their journeys. We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with Windermere.”
Our school supply drive also supported The Coffee Oasis. Kari shared, “Windermere provided vital resources and support for the youth in our center throughout the year. The agents and clients provided school supplies and donations that have greatly impacted this community. I am grateful for this consistent and generous support.”
How You Can Support These Great Nonprofits
Volunteering is a great way to help both The Coffee Oasis and Olive Crest. If you are looking for other ways to contribute, the best way to support The Coffee Oasis is to visit the cafes where 100% of the profits support and serve local youth. There are multiple cafe locations throughout Kitsap, including one inside the new Silverdale Library. Another easy way to get involved is to donate to supply drives, like the ones our office has hosted. Or, you can attend or sponsor a fundraising event via the Kitsap Great Give in April.
More About Kari Wax & Mia Steben
Kari Wax (center)
For over a year, Kari Wax has been working as The Coffee Oasis Poulsbo Youth Program Manager. We asked how she got involved. “I first got involved in 2020 when I helped a youth get connected to The Coffee Oasis for housing and resources. The youth needed a place to stay to finish the school year. I reached out to The Coffee Oasis, and they were able to secure them a place to live and case management services. I was so grateful for their help, and I was inspired to find a way to do more with the organization. The thing that is most inspiring to me about the mission of The Coffee Oasis is connecting youths to their community. I get the privilege of supporting the youth in North Kitsap to be connected to others, to caring adults, to agencies that can provide resources, to local churches and community groups. Or, to help them find a job or apply for college. When I get to see them in my community grow and thrive, I feel inspired to continue this humbling work. It is an honor to work for The Coffee Oasis and to partner with Windermere to help change lives in North Kitsap.”
Mia Steben works as Olive Crest’s Community Involvement Coordinator. “When I came across the job posting, I felt an immediate calling to engage,” Mia explained. “Olive Crest’s clear focus and impactful initiatives struck a chord with me, sparking an authentic enthusiasm to actively contribute to their mission. I find inspiration in Olive Crest’s steadfast dedication to our community.” Mia also shared a favorite memory from the holiday season, which a family shared with her:
“The boys opened their gifts tonight since we missed the party. Peter was ready to cry when they heard families gave them the gifts. Then Michael, tonight in bed, said, ‘Mom, I feel important for the very first time. I didn’t know I was important. I feel special.’ Yes, I was trying not to ugly cry for so many reasons! These gifts go beyond just the gift.”
– The Miller Family (names changed for privacy)
Get in Touch
To reach out to Olive Crest, you can email community-pnw@olivecrest.org or call (360) 328-1650 and leave a message with their office. To reach The Coffee Oasis, stop by one of the cafes or call them at (360) 377-5560 or email connect@thecoffeeoasis.com.
Splash Pads, Picnics & Pickleball – Visit These Local Parks
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors at one of our local parks. Kitsap County and the surrounding areas have many great spots to enjoy. So, we’ve compiled a list of parks we love that have splash pads, are great for picnics, and/or pickleball (America’s fastest-growing sport).
Kitsap County Parks
Battle Point Park on Bainbridge Island
This 90-acre park used to be a naval radio station. It has a large, open field that’s perfect for a picnic. The picnic structure is quite popular, so reservations are recommended. It also includes ponds, trails, a large wooden play structure, basketball, and tennis courts. Visitors can also enjoy a round of disc golf. Additionally, the park has gardening plots. However, there is currently a waitlist for the plots.
Buck Lake Park in Hansville
Spanning 155 acres and located in Hansville, this gem has lake access. In addition to swimming in the lake, you can also enjoy fishing and boating. (However, internal combustion motors and motorized boats are prohibited on the lake.) The park has bathrooms, a picnic shelter, and a small playground for younger kids. It also offers walking and equestrian trails of the Hansville Greenway Wildlife Corridor. Plus, there’s a basketball court, a volleyball court, and tennis/pickleball courts.
Lions Park in Poulsbo
This park is right by picturesque Fjord Drive, which is a great place to walk alongside the water. Near downtown Poulsbo, this park is a fun place to have a picnic and it has a playground. There are also tennis courts that are used for pickleball as well. Interested in finding out more about who is playing pickleball and when? Check out the website Pickleheads.com for more information about games at Lions Park and the surrounding area.
Owen’s Playground on Bainbridge Island
An inclusive, barrier-free play area, Owen’s Playground includes some water features. It was designed to include adaptive play features such as the Oodle Swing and Wee-Saw. Located between two baseball fields, this playground is convenient for families of Little Leaguers to picnic and play. In addition, the playground features the work of many local artists and creators, making it a truly special space.
Silverdale Waterfront Park in Silverdale
For a waterfront picnic with saltwater beach access and much more, head to this park in Silverdale. It has a playground, a gazebo, and a picnic shelter. The small playground is perfect for young children. The gazebo can seat approximately 16 people, while 90 people can fit in the picnic shelter, making it a great spot for larger groups. If you’re interested in renting out a space, check out Kitsap County’s Facility Rental site.
Wildcat Lake Park in Bremerton
This is a popular family picnic spot in the summer that opens the last Saturday of April and stays open through October 31st. It offers lake access with an area for swimming, and fishing is also permitted. There are also restrooms and a playground for children. Visitors are also able to rent the picnic shelter, which can house up to 48 people. As always, stay current with any lake and water advisories that are in place for any Kitsap County’s swimming beaches.
Other Great Parks Near Kitsap County
Chetzemoka Park in Port Townsend
The city of Port Townsend touts this park as the crown jewel of its park system and the first community park to be established in 1904. The park overlooks the Admiralty Inlet and Cascade Mountains. There is a gazebo and a large, grassy area that is perfect for picnics with BBQs and firepits. There are multiple play structures for children to use, as well as an ADA restroom and kitchen shelter. You can also access the beach and tidelands from the corner of the park, making it a popular place for events.
Edmonds City Park in Edmonds
If you’re ready to cool off during one of Washington’s hot summer days, Edmonds City Park has a large splash pad for visitors to enjoy. It’s open from Memorial Day to Labor Day from 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM. In addition, the park offers a great spot to picnic with a large open lawn, BBQ grills, and fire pits, as well as group picnic tables. There is even a picnic shelter available for use with reservations. Other bonuses include its playground, horseshoe pits, and a nearby baseball/softball field.
Gateway Park in Gig Harbor
This expansive park includes many fun features and amenities. The large, double playground includes a picnic shelter and picnic tables. There is also a splash pad that is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, seven days a week. If you’re a dog owner, you can visit its off-leash dog park. The park is located at the trailhead of the 360 Trails. These trails are open for walkers, mountain bikers, and equestrians.
Looking for other fun things to do in the Kitsap area? Check out these ideas for a staycation or a weekend getaway.
Summer Activities for Kids and Teens in Kitsap County
There are so many fun summer activities for kids and teens in Kitsap County. If you’re looking for something for your kids to do this summer, this list will help you get started. Some organizations offer a variety of activities and camps, so make sure to check each website for more detailed information.
First Friday Art Walk at KiDiMu
First Friday of each month, 1:00 – 7:00 PM, Kids Discovery Museum (KiDiMu), Bainbridge Island
On the first Friday of each month, KiDiMu hosts a special craft-based activity for kids. Whether you come in the early afternoon or head over after dinner, little ones will have a great time using their artistic skills and showcasing their creativity. It’s a great way to get an early start to the weekend!
Cost: Pay what you will (a donation-based program)
Summer Learning
June 1 – August 31, 2023, Kitsap Regional Library (all locations and online)
The Kitsap Regional Library is hosting its community self-paced reading and learning program for school-aged children and teens during summer break. To participate, visit any Kitsap Regional Library location to pick up a reading tracker or download the reading tracker online. Just remember, the reading tracker won’t be available until Thursday, June 1st so that everyone has the same amount of time. Fun prizes will be awarded to those who meet their reading goals!
Cost: Free
Also, be sure to check out monthly events happening at different library locations across Kitsap County. There’s something for every age group, including storytime for babies and toddlers, and arts & crafts activities for kids and teens.
Canvas & Cupcake
Held once a month on a Sunday, dates and times vary, Kitsap Art Center, Silverdale
Enjoy an afternoon of family fun at the Kitsap Art Center! Adults and children (ages 5 and older) are invited to channel their inner Van Gogh (or Picasso or Monet – your choice!) by creating a step-by-step painting. No experience is necessary. Just be willing to get out of your comfort zone and be creative. Cupcakes are provided as a post-art treat.
Cost: $40 per person, including art supplies
Young Artist Summer Camps
Dates and times vary, Kitsap Art Center, Silverdale
Kitsap Art Center offers a variety of camps and summer classes for kids as young as four all the way up to teenagers. Typically, each class focuses on learning how to paint a particular animal or piece of art. Participating youth don’t need any prior experience – just sign up and have fun! All aspiring artists are welcome as long as they meet the minimum age requirements.
Cost: Costs vary depending on the class
Kitsap Live Steamers
April – October 2023, 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month, from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (weather permitting) South Kitsap Regional Park, Port Orchard
Choo, choo – all aboard! Calling all train enthusiasts for an outdoor ride. Kitsap Live Steamers operates 7.5″ gauge scale trains that are fun for all ages. The train includes an ADA-accessible riding car designed to accommodate a manual or motorized wheelchair. A train ride is great fun for the whole family!
Cost: Donation based
Bainbridge Island Aquatics Center
April – August 2023, dates and times vary, Bainbridge Island
Help your kids dive in and learn how to swim this summer at the Bainbridge Island Aquatics Center. Swim classes are offered for ages 6 months to 12 years old. This is a great way to start a lifelong skill or take swimming skills to the next level. But hurry, classes are already filling up!
Cost: $136 to $170, depending on the class
Student Conservation Corps
Summer 2023, Bainbridge Island Metropolitan Park & Recreation District
Youth get to learn what it takes to become an environmental steward by helping pull weeds and controlling invasive plants in Bainbridge Island parks. Local educational speakers provide conservation education and career advice during lunch as well. This is a paid work opportunity for students 15 and older and a great way to learn more about conservation-related careers.
Cost: N/A: it’s a paid work opportunity
Olympic Outdoor Center’s Youth Summer Day Camps
June – July 2023, dates and times vary, Poulsbo Waterfront Park Pavilion
Summer day camps hosted by the Olympic Outdoor Center are for ages 7 to 13. They’re packed with activities, including kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, and standup paddleboarding. While having tons of fun, campers also learn about safety, teamwork, adventure nutrition, and respect for the natural world.
Cost: $229 – $359
Pirate Festival
June 17, 2023, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Mike Wallace Park, Kingston
Ahoy! Kingston will be launching its first annual Pirate Festival this June. This event features more than 30 vendors and live music. Plus, there will be activities for kids, including face painting, pirate games, and a bouncy house. The festival promises to be a swashbuckling good time for the whole family.
Cost: Free
Ride the Tide
June 17, 2023, and it starts at Tracyton Boat Launch, Bremerton
Celebrate the Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trails by joining Ride the Tide. This is perfect for teens and parents who are comfortable kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding. Participants may use their own gear or rent gear from the Olympic Outdoor Center. So, grab a paddle and join in on this guided ride with fellow water enthusiasts. Also, a shuttle service will be available.
Cost: $59, but cost increases with gear rentals
YMCA Day Camps and Youth Classes
June 19 – September 1, 2023, Haselwood YMCA, Silverdale
The Haselwood YMCA offers a variety of summer day camps and youth classes, including swim lessons, sports, and gymnastics. Kids get to have fun while building self-confidence and learning new skills. The Haselwood YMCA also offers open swim days to escape the heat, which is free for YMCA members.
Cost: Prices vary, and members receive discounts
Sailing Camp
July 10 – August 4, 2023, Kitsap Sailing Foundation, Waterfront Park, Silverdale
Kids and teens can set sail this summer with camps offered by the Kitsap Sailing Foundation! Each camp runs daily for one week, with youth morning sessions and teen camps in the afternoon. Sign up for one camp or all of them; no experience is necessary either way. Each week offers new experiences and STEM learning opportunities too.
Cost: $240 plus processing fees (need-based scholarships are available)
Summer Ranch Hands
July – August 2023, dates and times vary, The Whole Horse Place, Port Orchard
Saddle up and learn what it takes to be a great ranch hand. Students ages 7 and older get to learn every aspect of horsemanship, including trail riding, equine science labs, lessons, and chores. This is a wonderful way to become comfortable around horses.
Cost: $125 per day, $525 per week
Kitsap Forest Adventure Camp
July 2023, dates and times vary, Kitsap Forest Theater, Bremerton
Get kids to step away from their screens and get outside this summer with creative camps offered by Kitsap Forest Theater. Outdoor activities for kids ages kindergarten through 4th grade include art, singing, drama, hiking, and exploring the forest, wildlife, and creeks. Hurry though. The two-week-long camps offered are already filling up!
Cost: $395, $345 for members
Youth and Teen Classes
July – August 2023, dates and times vary, BARN (Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network)
The BARN on Bainbridge Island has it all! Classes for a variety of ages ranging from 8 to 18 cover every topic you can imagine, including robotics, crafts combined with activism, glass making, smartphone filmmaking, pasty baking, songwriting, printmaking, photography, and much more! So jump-start that creativity and sign up now.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the length and materials required
For more summer activities for kids, please see the Summer Camp list in our Guide to Kitsap County (pages 14-15). Some may already be sold out, but you can save those as potential options for next year. Most importantly, have a great summer!
