One Starfish at a Time: A Visit to The HUB

Pictured: Pictured Jessie Gunn, WCF Executive Director; Richard Choquette, HUB Secretary; Shelly Benton, HUB Executive Director; and, Christy Grant, HUB Treasurer; presenting the grant check in support of HUB teens!

During our visit to The HUB – Youth Central, we were reminded of a story shared by a Board Member. It was about a man walking along a beach strewn with starfish. Another man approached and said, “Why are you doing this? There are miles of beach and thousands of starfish. You’ll never be able to save them all.” The man replied as he gently placed one back into the ocean, “I made a difference for that one.”

That simple yet powerful story perfectly embodies The HUB’s philosophy. Day after day, staff and volunteers meet youth exactly where they are—with open arms, warm meals, and unconditional acceptance. Their impact may begin with one young person, but it radiates outward, strengthening the entire community.

A Welcoming Haven for South Whidbey Teens

Founded in 1990 and located below the Langley United Methodist Church, The HUB is the only drop-in center serving teens on South Whidbey. Operating year-round, it offers a welcoming space with hot meals, snacks, art supplies, games, music, and homework help. The HUB also supports youth with clothing, toiletries, tickets to local events, and even transportation when needed. Teens from all walks of life—many navigating challenges such as food insecurity, mental health struggles, or lack of family support—find a place where they can be seen, heard, and supported.

Did you know? LGBTQ youth and neurodiverse students from across the island, including Oak Harbor, travel to The HUB because of its reputation as a safe, inclusive space. Their consistent presence for over three decades, even serving second-generation attendees, speaks volumes about the trust they’ve built.

Promoting Protective Factors with Every Meal and Conversation

Supported in part by a Community Health Grant from Whidbey Community Foundation, The HUB promotes protective factors that counterbalance Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Whether it is helping youth apply for jobs, register to vote, or develop essential life skills like cooking and sewing, The HUB offers stability and purpose during a vulnerable stage of life.

Their model is grounded in the concept of “unconditional positive regard”—each youth is welcomed with genuine warmth, respect, and curiosity. As one staff member said, “All the kids think they’re our favorite—and they’re right.”

A Ripple Effect of Resilience

The HUB is more than an after-school program; it’s a pillar of community health. Parents are able to work longer hours knowing their kids are safe, fed, and cared for. Youth gain emotional support, academic encouragement, and a sense of belonging that builds confidence and reduces risky behaviors.

It’s not just about helping one young person—it’s about creating a ripple effect that shapes a healthier future for the entire community. WCF is proud to support The HUB in its mission. By helping one starfish at a time, they’re changing lives.

Learn more about The HUB and how to get involved at: www.thehubafterschool.org

Support Community Health Grants

WCF’s Community Health Grant Program is dedicated to improving the well-being of Whidbey Island residents by addressing key factors that shape a thriving, healthy community.

These grants support projects and organizations that enhance access to healthcare, promote healthy behaviors, strengthen social and economic stability, and improve environmental conditions that impact health. By funding initiatives that eliminate barriers to health and opportunity, WCF strives to create a more equitable and resilient community—one where every individual has the support needed to live a healthy, fulfilling life. WCF is able to provide grants like these with broad support from our community.

If you are interested in supporting the Community Health Grant Program, we ask that you make a contribution to WCF’s Foundation Fund which holistically supports our grant programs, nonprofit trainings/workshops, and WCF operations. WCF’s Board of Directors allocates funding each year toward our grant programs. WCF is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to Whidbey Island; all donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Learn about different ways to make a charitable contribution here.

Read the original blog post on the Whidbey Community Foundation Website here.