R.A.C.E. was formed through the hard work and efforts of many Rosalia, Malden, Thornton, and Pine City community members. It began with a Northwest Area Foundation Horizons grant in the fall of 2008 and was managed by Washington State University Extension. Eighteen months later, we graduated the Horizons program and Rosalia Association for Community Enrichment was formed. Through months of evening meetings and the dedication of many, the bylaws and Articles of Incorporation were written. We are now officially a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation.
In the fall of 2008, roughly 100 community members gathered to share their ideas for community improvement and poverty reduction. The evening resulted in the naming of four areas of priority "action items" in which citizens would like to see someone take action. The areas were communication, recreation, jobs, and the John Wayne Trail.
The Milwaukee Whistler newsletter, is just one of the actions that R.A.C.E. is taking to improve communication. We hope to expand and improve this publication with the help of volunteers and input from the communities we serve.
The third annual R.A.C.E.-sponsored softball game is planned for Battle Days weekend and will provide families with an opportunity to enjoy our city park together.
A community garden is in the planning stage. Vegetables from the garden will be donated to the local food pantry. Families will have the opportunity to work on the garden together. Volunteers are needed for planning and implementation.
R.A.C.E. sponsored a series of G.E.D. Test Preparation Classes this winter and spring. The sessions were held at the Malden library and will resume again in the fall. The program currently has four participants and can accommodate up to twelve.
R.A.C.E. members were trained to provide money management courses through Money Management International. Financial workshops will be scheduled based on community interest and participation.
R.A.C.E. held a Winter Dance in December 2010 where many came to enjoy an evening of live music and dancing. The 2nd Annual Winter Dance will be Saturday, December 3rd
R.A.C.E. is sponsoring a Luau Party on July 16th, yet another opportunity for families to gather for some fun and exercise (dancing!)
oProfits from the family-oriented portion of the Luau Party will be donated to Footprints Child Care Center, our only local licensed daycare, which provides jobs for local citizens.
oProfits from the adult-oriented portion of the Luau Party will be donated to the city park to help maintain or improve the park grounds for recreation.
Our mission is to support and sponsor a broad spectrum of educational and lifestyle initiatives that enrich Rosalia and the surrounding communities.
Board meetings are held the first Sunday of every month at 7:00PM. Location varies. Call for information. Anyone is welcome to attend. Membership is encouraged for an annual donation of $5.
President: Paul Nesbitt
VicePresident: Nan Konishi
Secretary: Jessica Billings
Treasurer: Kathy Wilkes
Publicity Director: Chelsey Fanara
Technical/Facilities Director: Chad Fanara
