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Hello members!
The Board of Directors is always brainstorming on ways to keep the Gem looking its best, offering programs and classes which meet the needs of the community, and ensuring the sustainability of the center.
One new initiative is using the main front doors for the entrance. It might seem like a small thing but it has multiple functions: 1) highlighting the new signage which includes member created works of art, 2) energy efficient double entry doors keep debris and dirt confined to a smaller space, and 3) keeping the upgraded commercial kitchen as clean as possible and always rental-ready.
Please use the front entry doors, unless you are an activity leader opening or closing the center.
Below is some helpful info regarding use of the space:
Please remember, the Activity Center is open when your activity is being held. This means the front doors are open and lights are on and maybe ac/heat is adjusted. If the office is closed, you are the representatives of the nonprofit.
As a reminder, you must close up after your activity unless another activity leader is using the space after you. We realize with new members, closing protocols may not have been adequately passed down. Closing up requires the following activities:
- Clean and return the chairs and tables to storage; or return any equipment used to the proper storage area.
- sweep where your activity took place, removing any debris left by your activity;
- set thermostat to 75 in summer and 68 in winter;
- wash and return any dishes used, following the posted kitchen protocols;
- lights off
- check all exterior doors including the four front doors; and
- last person leaves through the front office side door, press lock and make sure the door is closed and locked before leaving.
For visitors coming into the Activity Center during your activity when the office is closed, as representatives of the Gem, please greet them and offer one of our brochures you can find on the sign in table and also let them know office hours are Monday - Thursday 9-2. Thank you.
The Board has also begun researching the feasibility of adding a multi-use building for high impact recreational activities and classes, as well as functioning as additional available space during an emergency. The Gem will need volunteers and members to step up in a number of ways to meet this goal and complete the project. Fundraising will be key, and the Board looks forward to working together with motivated groups to make this dream a reality.
The Gem belongs to all of us, and we all have a part to play to keep it thriving!
Updated info on other opportunities to pitch in are below.
Specific volunteer needs / opportunities:
Trail Workday (Friday NOV 7) AM goodies and lunch will be provided. Please RSVP to Irene so we can plan for food.
Emergency Response Center committee TBD based on volunteer avails.
Facility expansion planning committee TBD based on interested parties.
Wildspace management / cedar removal and management - Moved to Spring and will include a trip to Bamburger Ranch to learn more about land management.
Health and wellness fair planning (Jan/Feb event)
Reading Between The Wines event helpers (tentatively Dec)
Open studio and art walk (TBD 2026)
Indie Film Nite 2026 - will likely evolve into a different event, open to ideas.
Create Healthy grant project (rolling timeline)
As always, if you have any questions, ideas, comments or a desire to volunteer please feel free to reach out to me, as well as Irene. My email is stefanie.wright@gmail.com and my cell phone is 773-396-3257.
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