Submitted by Claire Anderson, Flip
Friends of Lopez Island Pool (FLIP) is excited and grateful for Lopezians Karen and Randy Wilburn, who are setting the pace for its Year-End Campaign with a generous match for all gifts received by December 15, 2021, up to $30,000. All donations will go toward the creation of the community Swim Center, building an all-ages, year-round gathering place where we can all thrive in fitness, safety, health, and fun.
The Wilburn’s gift is infusing the end-of-year giving with gusto, helping FLIP meet its goal of raising $160,000 by December 31, 2021! FLIP recently spoke with the couple about their passion for this project, and their reasons behind their terrific year-end donation.
FLIP: What was your impetus to jump in and support FLIP and the Swim Center?
Randy: Neither one of us are avid swimmers, but that’s not why we support FLIP. For Karen, the neighborhood pool in Austin was a place to hang out with her friends as a teenager. For me, the university pool was where I learned to roll my kayak.
FLIP: What kinds of benefits do you think will result from having a nonprofit Swim Center for San Juan County islanders and visitors?
With family members serving as first responders, we know the importance of water-rescue training for our local firefighters and EMS personnel. And of course, it seems crazy that we don’t have a place where the local adults and children can learn to swim.
FLIP: How do you (and your friends and family) plan to use the Swim Center?
As we both get older and when the weather turns a bit colder, we look forward to exercising in warm, rejuvenating water.
FLIP: How do you see the Swim Center playing a role in fostering community?
Our community pool will be a gathering spot for better health, for safety, and for recreation So you see, it’s more than just a pool. That’s why we support this campaign.
Supporters can give online at www.lopezislandpool.org/donate. To date, $6 million has been raised toward the $8 million campaign. On-site construction is targeted to begin in late spring 2022, once 80% of the campaign goal has been reached and the ground is dry!
The FLIP Board is ever thankful to Karen and Randy for this wonderful gift and to all FLIP donors for their steadfast support of this critically important project!
