Hello Holden,

Holden is savoring the last moments of summertime!

As summer programming concludes and the Village welcomes cooler autumn days, we reflect on three months practicing Becoming Courageous Community. Villagers have engaged in conversations through teaching sessions, on the Ark, and in the Dining Hall, offering inspiring encouragement to care for each other and the Earth, both at Holden and downlake.

The welcomes and deliberations continue through the fall, with school groups, two Indigenous Artists in Residence, and exciting programming. Fall is an excellent season for hiking, rest, and renewal at Holden!

The Village said a grateful farewell to the firefighters who have been based in Lucerne as they managed the Pioneer Fire. Holden sends prayers for everyone who continues to manage the fire, care for the ecosystem, and protect Stehekin and the greater Lake Chelan community. As fire activity continues throughout the west coast, we remember that forest fires are vital to forest health in the North Cascades and beyond. Railroad Creek Valley has been fortunate to enjoy clear skies, safety from fires, and excellent air quality this summer!

Whether you've joined in Becoming Courageous Community together in the Village or by connecting from afar, you are a vital part of Holden Village. Watch for an email next week to learn how you can support Holden's programming and operations!

Blessings,

Stacy Kitahata, Mark Bach, and Kathie Bach

Abriendo Caminos!

Abriendo Caminos brought a week-long celebration of Latine culture! The week included Talavera tile making, piñata creation, hiking, bilingual worship, and the Copa Holden soccer tournament. Hundreds of tamales were made by hand (while being serenaded by live music!) and the week ended with a raucous fiesta.

Thank you to all who made Abriendo Caminos possible and so full of joy!

Visit Holden This Fall

Experience Holden as the valley turns shades of orange and yellow! Check out the events happening in September and October:

• Collective Justice Retreat (9/6-9/11)
• Fall Sojourn (9/15-9/22)
• Alumni Weekend (9/27-9/30)
• Work Weeks (10/14-10/19 and 10/21-10/26)

Holden is open to guests all of October (except for the 29th). We are in the process of updating the website booking page to reflect this.

Spiritual Life

“The one who sings prays twice.” - Attributed to Martin Luther

The role of the Holden Village Musician cannot be underestimated. From daily worship, song circles, and open mic nights the Village Musician coordinates and leads music in many settings, fostering joy and spiritual well-being. One might say the musician is “instrumental” to the community, and the blessings flow both ways. Former Village Musician, Rolf Vegdahl-Crowell, says, “As the Village Musician in 2002-2003, I discovered and developed skills as a composer, arranger, and collaborator. I left the Village with new tools to use in my career as a church music director.” 

The current Village musician, Laura Elmquist, reflects, “There have been many times in the last year and a half when I found myself sitting at the piano, listening to everyone sing while I played, and thinking, 'This is what I'm meant to be doing.' Living and working at Holden has provided me with practical skills and experience, community connections, and a better understanding of myself on a personal level, all of which have prepared me for the next part of my journey."

Holden is seeking the next Village Musician. It could be you or someone you know!

Save the Date: Jubilee Auction!

Holden Village’s biggest fundraising event is back for the fifth year from October 2nd to 6th! The all-online auction proceeds keep the daily operations and programs of the Village running smoothly. 

YOU can help by donating an item or experience for bidding! Past examples include vacation homes/cabins, art, hand-crafted items, event tickets, hosted dinners, unique Holden items, and much more!

You can still offer an experience or object for the next ten days. Please fill out the form below by Friday, September 6th. We will be in touch with you!

New Compost Bins

Holden has improved the composting system! The Village has upgraded storage and efficiency in breaking down food waste to soil for the beautiful gardens.

The new bins have made Holden’s “Garbology” system much faster! Learn more about the new system at the link below.

Live at Holden!

Join the Holden team and experience a community and work environment like no other!

Open Long-Term Positions:

Village Musician

Heavy Equipment Operator

Director for Advancement

Advancement Lead

HR/Staffing Lead

Reference herein to any specific commercial products or services does not necessarily constitute or imply its

endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by Holden Village.



PHOTOS: Elli Vegdahl-Crowell, Berit Kirkegaard, Anny Joy Berntsen