Positive Change Center

The Positive Change Center is a dynamic initiative committed to providing a safe, supportive environment for veterans and community members dealing with mental health issues and emotional trauma. The first Positive Change Center on Camano Island has made remarkable progress by intentionally involving veterans in the construction and development of the space, offering them hands-on roles in projects as part of their healing process.

The center stands out for its unique approach to holistic healing, bringing together a variety of programs designed to foster personal growth and community connection. Our offerings include:

• Counseling and Peer Support Groups: Facilitating personal healing through shared experiences.
• Mindfulness and Meditation Practices: Cultivating peace and focus to support mental well-being.
• Educational Workshops and Seminars: Covering topics related to mental health, self-improvement, and skill-building.
• Community Gardening and Nutrition Education: Teaching the principles of healthy living while connecting people to nature through gardening.
• Dirt Therapy: Harnessing the therapeutic benefits of working with the earth to promote mental and emotional balance.
• Sound Healing: Using vibrational sound therapy to reduce stress and encourage relaxation.
• Yoga & Tai-Chi Lessons: Offering physical movement practices that blend mindfulness and flexibility for both body and mind.
• Nature Walks & Bicycling: Promoting physical health while enjoying the calming effects of nature.
• Career & Job Assistance: Helping individuals build meaningful careers and transition into the workforce.
• Youth Technical Fellowship Program: Providing technical and vocational training opportunities for young people to help them develop valuable career skills.

One of the key features of the center is the hands-on involvement of veterans in every aspect of its construction. By leading various building projects—such as meditation gardens, permaculture gardens, and artistic murals—veterans gain a sense of purpose, develop new skills, and contribute to a space that promotes healing for all who visit.

This collaborative building process fosters a strong sense of teamwork and mutual support, not only among veterans but also between veterans and civilian professionals. Architects, designers, and construction experts work alongside the veterans, creating a bridge between these two communities as they work toward a shared goal of positive change.

As the Positive Change Center continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to its mission of empowering veterans and the wider community to heal, grow, and create lasting, positive transformations.