The South Whidbey Project - 2024 End-of-Year Recap
As our first year comes to a close, we’re excited to share the progress and milestones the South Whidbey Project (SWP) has achieved. Founded by Parker Barnett, Levi Sawyers, and Hunter Hawkins, SWP is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that raised over $40,000 in 2024 and has already raised nearly $50,000 to make a lasting impact in 2025. These accomplishments wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of our donors and partners. Here’s a look back at what we’ve achieved and what’s on the horizon:
Our Mission
To improve the community of South Whidbey Island through public projects, education, engagement, and opportunity.
Langley Community Center Field Restoration
One of our standout initiatives this year has been restoring the Langley Community Center field. With Brian McCleary’s leadership and collaboration from the SWP, Parks and Rec, and the local soccer club, this field is being transformed into a year-round playable field for the community.
Irrigation System: The completed system will ensure the field remains healthy and usable for years to come.
Safety Improvements: A new east-side fence adds an essential layer of safety for everyone who uses the field. The former press box, degraded by time and weather, has also been removed.
Looking Ahead: We’re committed to continuing to work with local clubs and community members to ensure South Whidbey has access to all-season fields.
This initiative highlights the importance of working together to invest in shared spaces that benefit everyone.
(Parker Barnett, Levi Sawyers, and Hunter Hawkins on the same field in Fall of 2002)
South Whidbey Community Scholarships
(Levi Sawyers and Hunter Hawkins presenting the scholarships on award night)
Supporting the next generation is at the heart of what we do. In 2024, SWP provided $10,000 in scholarships to three remarkable South Whidbey High School graduates. These scholarships honor their achievements, community involvement, and leadership.
We’re proud of these students and look forward to watching them thrive as they take on new challenges.
Whidbey Island Language, Arts, and STEM Center (WILASC)
Education is a cornerstone of SWP’s mission, and we’re thrilled to partner with WILASC to expand opportunities for local students.
STEM Summer Camps: Our grant funded essential classroom supplies and scholarships, ensuring every student who wanted to participate could do so.
After-School Programs: With SWP’s support, WILASC is growing its after-school offerings, providing students on South Whidbey year-round access to unique learning experiences.
This partnership reflects our belief in nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and innovation for the youth within the South Whidbey Island community.
For more information on WILASC, please visit: www.wilasc.com
Looking Ahead to 2025
Building on this year’s achievements, the SWP is gearing up for an even bigger impact in 2025. With over $30,000 already allocated to community initiatives, we’re excited to continue making a difference. Stay tuned for updates as we bring these projects to life and create new opportunities for our local community.
For more information on the South Whidbey Project, including how to apply for a grant, please visit: theswp.org
Thank You
To everyone who has supported us in this journey, thank you. Your generosity and belief in our mission have fueled our success. Together, we’re creating a brighter future for South Whidbey—one project at a time. Here’s to an incredible 2025!
Ideas/Questions/Comments? Feel free to reach out: levi@theswp.org