Make a Difference: Human Services Grants Now Open!

June 4, 2026

CITY MANAGER'S MESSAGE

Investing in Community Through Human Services Grants

Every day, nonprofit organizations across our community provide critical services that help some of our most vulnerable community members overcome challenges, achieve stability, and improve their quality of life.

Recognizing the vital role these organizations play, the Lacey City Council established the Human Services Grant Program (HSGP) to support projects and services that directly benefit Lacey residents.

The Council's intent is straightforward: invest in local organizations that make a meaningful difference in the lives of people experiencing hardship or disadvantage. By partnering with trusted nonprofit providers, the City can help extend the reach and impact of services that address some of our community's most pressing needs.

For 2026, the City has made up to $300,000 available to eligible nonprofit human service providers that serve Lacey. Organizations may apply for grants of up to $30,000 for service-based projects and up to $50,000 for capital improvement projects that expand or enhance their ability to serve the community.

In 2025, the City Council authorized HSGP grant funds to support programs including student assistance grants, scholarships for North Thurston Public Schools students experiencing homelessness, weekend food bag programs, senior home-share services, low-income home repair programs, and more.

While the City provides funding, our nonprofit partners deliver these critical services. Their staff, volunteers, and supporters work tirelessly every day to provide hope, stability, and opportunity for those who need it most.

We are very grateful for these organizations and the positive impact they have on the lives of Lacey community members. Their work strengthens our community, and we are proud to support their efforts through the Human Services Grant Program.

— Rick Walk

To learn more about the program and apply for funding, visit the Human Services webpage. You can also get more program details, including a free grant-application workshop on June 9, in the article below in the News and Updates section.

CITY MANAGER'S SPOTLIGHT: It's the People!

A Well-Earned Retirement: Thank You, Scott Egger

On Friday, May 29, we said farewell to Public Works Director Scott Egger as he retired following a career dedicated to public service and improving our community.

Scott's work helped shape the City of Lacey in countless ways. Public works touches nearly every aspect of daily life, from the roads we drive on to the water systems we depend on, and Scott approached that responsibility with professionalism, expertise, and a deep commitment to serving our community.

What many people may not see is the person behind the title. Over the years, Scott became known not only for his knowledge and leadership but also for his steady presence, willingness to help, and genuine care for the people around him. Whether he was working through a complex situation, mentoring staff, or collaborating with colleagues, he consistently brought thoughtfulness, patience, and a sense of humor to the job.

One of the things I appreciated most about Scott is his ability to keep the focus on what matters. He understands that public service is ultimately about people, and his decisions were guided by what would best serve the community. While Scott has many accomplishments to be proud of, I believe his greatest impact can be found in the relationships he built, the people he supported, and the example he set for those who had the opportunity to work alongside him. While we will miss seeing Scott around City Hall, we are excited for him as he begins this next chapter.

Scott, thank you for your service, leadership, and friendship. You have left a lasting mark on this organization and on the people who have had the privilege of working with you. We wish you the best in retirement. Enjoy!

— Rick Walk

NEWS & UPDATES

Learn More About the City's Human Services Grant Program: Attend a Free Workshop!

Nonprofit organizations interested in applying for the City's Human Services Grant Program (HSGP) are invited to attend a free grant application workshop on Tuesday, June 9.

The workshop is designed to help applicants better understand the HSGP, including eligibility requirements, funding priorities, application materials, and the overall review process. Attendees will also have an opportunity to ask questions and learn tips for submitting a successful application. The City's HSGP supports nonprofit organizations that provide essential services to low-income and vulnerable community members. Funding priorities focus on housing, survival, and security needs.

Whether your organization is applying for the first time or has participated in previous funding cycles, the workshop offers valuable information to help navigate the application process.

Workshop Details:

Date: Tuesday, June 9
Time: 1:30 p.m.
Location: Online via Zoom

The City encourages organizations serving Lacey community members to participate and learn more about available funding opportunities that help address critical community needs. For additional information about the Human Services Grant Program and grant opportunities, visit the City's grant opportunities webpage.

What's the Latest in Lacey? Here's the scoop:

Do you know a student looking for leadership opportunities? We are now accepting applications for the Youth Leadership Council!

Our Human Services Grant application is now open. Nonprofits providing essential services to the community are encouraged to apply and attend a workshop.

Help shape the future of stormwater management in your community by providing feedback on the 2026 Stormwater Strategic Plan.

Federal Disaster Assistance Available for December 2025 Storm Losses

Washington residents who experienced damage or losses from the severe storms that impacted the state in December 2025 may be eligible for federal disaster assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Available assistance may help cover immediate needs such as food, water, first aid supplies, prescriptions, and other essential expenses. Eligible residents may also receive support for temporary housing, hotel stays, moving costs, and basic home or vehicle repairs.

Community members affected by the storms are encouraged to review available programs and apply as soon as possible. The deadline to submit an application for FEMA assistance is Wednesday, June 10.

For more information about eligibility requirements and application options, visit the Disaster Assistance webpage.

Don't wait until the last minute. If you were impacted by the December storms, now is the time to explore available assistance and determine whether you qualify for support!

One Chapter Ends, Another Begins for the Lacey Youth Council!

The 2025-2026 Lacey Youth Council (LYC) wrapped up a year of service, leadership, and community involvement on Tuesday. Throughout the school year, the Youth Council worked closely with City leaders, participated in community events, shared youth perspectives with the City Council, and gained firsthand experience in local government. As their term comes to a close, local students now have an opportunity to step into those leadership roles!

The City is accepting Lacey Youth Council applications from 2026-2027 sophomores, juniors, and seniors who attend public or private schools, alternative education programs, or are home-schooled in the Lacey area. The application period is open now through Monday, July 6.

The LYC serves as an advisory board to the Lacey City Council (Council). It was created to encourage civic engagement and bridge the gap between youth and local government by involving them in community activities and providing leadership opportunities.

The LYC meets twice a month during the school year, including a monthly, in-person report to the Council. This provides LYC members an opportunity to:

Gain insight into how local government functions and serves the community.
Offer youth-driven insights and recommendations to Council and staff.
Participate in community projects.
Earn 30 or more hours of community service or a stipend of $50 per meeting, up to $500 per year.

To learn more about the LYC and apply, visit the Youth Council webpage.

Show Off Your Car at Cops, Cars N Kids

Got a cool ride? Register (it's free!) for the Cops, Cars N Kids Car Show and get ready for some oohs and aahs!

This annual event brings together car enthusiasts, families, and community members for a day of impressive vehicles, community connections, and family-friendly fun. Whether your car is a classic, custom build, muscle car, hot rod, or simply your pride and joy, organizers encourage you to register and be part of the show.

Vehicle owners can register through Bader Insurance Group or complete the online registration form.

Get your car polished up and join the lineup for another great Cops, Cars N Kids event!

Shape Lacey’s Future and Preserve Its Past: Apply for an Advisory Board!

Looking for a way to get involved in your community? The City is currently recruiting for openings on both the Historical Commission and the Library Board, giving residents a chance to help shape programs, services, and initiatives that support the community for years to come.

The Historical Commission has one vacancy on its seven-member board. The commission advises the City Council on historic preservation efforts, including identifying and protecting historic sites, promoting awareness of local history, and supporting heritage programs and activities throughout the community.

Commission members play an important role in preserving Lacey’s story and helping future generations stay connected to the city’s past. The Historical Commission typically meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. at Lacey City Hall.

The City is also recruiting for one unexpired term on the six-member Library Board. Applicants for the Library Board vacancy must live within Lacey city limits. The term expires February 2, 2039.

The Library Board helps develop long-range plans for library services in Lacey and provides guidance on ways local libraries can continue serving the community’s evolving needs. The board includes five general members and one youth representative and meets on the third Thursday of January, April, June, and October at 5:30 p.m. at Lacey City Hall.

Stipend Available

To help reduce barriers to participation and increase representation in local government, advisory board members are eligible for a $50 stipend per meeting, up to $500 per year. The stipend is intended to help offset costs such as childcare, transportation, internet access, and other expenses related to participating in meetings.

Whether you are passionate about local history, library services, or community involvement, serving on a board or commission is a meaningful way to make a lasting impact in Lacey.

Apply on the Board Application webpage.

Questions? Call 360-491-3214 or email CityClerk@CityofLacey.org.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Creativity Corner: Catch the Crafty Wave

Looking for a fun, free activity this month? Head to the Lacey Museum and get creative with a jellyfish-themed craft that is perfect for all ages.

June's Creativity Corner invites visitors to explore the wonders of the sea by making their own jellyfish creation. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly outing, a rainy-day activity, or just an excuse to get crafty, this drop-in program offers a simple and creative way to spend time at the museum. The activity is free and open to everyone.

Creativity Corner is a monthly hands-on craft program that gives visitors a chance to create something new while exploring the museum. No registration is required, making it easy to stop by whenever it fits your schedule.

Event Details:

Dates: June 4 - 28, 2026
Times: Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Location: Lacey Museum (4160 6th Ave SE Suite 101)

Bring your imagination and see what you can create while enjoying a visit to the museum this June!

Lacey Night Market: June at a Glance

The 2026 Lacey Night Market season has already delivered plenty of memorable moments, from creative themes and live entertainment to local vendors, delicious food, and community connections. If you've joined us so far, thank you for making this season a great success! If you haven't made it out yet, no worries. We're just getting started.

Here's what's coming up in June:

June 12 – Juneteenth Celebration
June 26 – Pride Night

Each Night Market takes place from 5 - 10 p.m. at The Depot (5555 Pacific Ave. SE) and features:

Local artisan vendors
Food vendors and sweet treats
Live entertainment
Family-friendly activities
A welcoming community atmosphere

With themed events, unique shopping opportunities, and something new to discover at every market, the Lacey Night Market continues to be one of the best ways to spend a summer evening in Lacey.

Whether you're coming to celebrate, shop, eat, or simply enjoy a night out with friends and family, we hope to see you!

PARTNER POSTS

Help Keep Bears Wild This Summer

As black bears become more active across Washington this spring and summer, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) reminds community members to take simple steps to prevent unwanted encounters.

Black bears are common throughout much of the state, including suburban neighborhoods and green spaces near cities and towns. As Washington's population continues to grow, encounters between people and bears are becoming more common. The good news? Most conflicts can be avoided by removing easy food sources that attract bears into residential areas.

Help keep bears wild by securing common attractants around your home:

Keep garbage and recycling locked up until trash day. Consider freezing meat and fish scraps before disposal to reduce odors.
Remove seed and liquid bird feeders and pick ripe fruit from trees.
Clean barbecue grills after each use and store them in a secure location.
Feed pets indoors when possible, or remove food and bowls after mealtime.
Store pet, livestock, and human food where bears can't smell or access it.

Black bears are generally non-aggressive and prefer to avoid people, but it's important to give them plenty of space. If you encounter a bear, stay calm, keep your distance, and never run. If a bear approaches, make yourself appear larger by standing tall and waving your arms while speaking in a calm voice. If it continues approaching, make noise by clapping, stomping, or yelling. When enjoying local trails and parks, keep dogs leashed and do not allow them to chase or approach wildlife.

By removing attractants and respecting wildlife from a safe distance, community members can help keep both people and bears safe throughout the summer.

To learn more about black bears and bear safety, visit the WDFW website.