PCA seeks donations through fall fundraiser

The Pioneer Community Association’s (PCA) mission is to preserve and maintain the historic Pioneer Center for community use as a performing arts center and a public meeting venue. Over the last 18 months, the center has seen performers Mel & Leah and Friends 20 times and Skamokawa Swamp Opera three times. The center was also host to the Summer Theater Camp, the Bald Eagle Days Variety Show, the traditional Christmas community sing-along “Fa La La,” and American folk duo Phoenix.

As a public meeting venue, the center served as a meeting space for Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez to hold mobile office hours. The Wahkiakum County Historical Society has also held its annual meetings at the center, and the Cathlamet Woman’s Club holds its Citizen of the Year reception there as well. Aside from community choir CathlameTones holding its weekly practices there, the center also hosts the Library Foundation Book Sale. The nearby Cathlamet Public Library hosts open mic night, author book talks, a weekly Pre-K story time, and a weekly sibling and family gaming group.

The Pioneer Community Association’s commitment is not just to save the building, but to ensure that it remains available for use by our community. After years of sitting vacant, followed by years of repair/restoration interrupted by a pause for Covid-19, PCA is thrilled to see the doors open and people making their way back to this historic building for everything from concerts and choir practice to Dungeons and Dragons gaming.

PCA is aware of the financial challenges facing both Wahkiakum County and the Town of Cathlamet. After years of financial support from the Town of Cathlamet, PCA anticipates its support will cease at the end of this year. Moving forward, the additional cost of utilities and liability insurance will increase the expense side of PCA’s budget by approximately $5,000. Rather than throwing its hands up and quitting in frustration, PCA is digging in and working harder to grow the income side of its budget. This all starts with PCA’s annual Fall Fundraiser, Silent Auction with a Twist, on Saturday, Sept. 27 at Norse Hall.

Ways that one can help PCA are renewing their memberships and/or providing an auction item for the fundraiser. Auction items can include gift certificates, art, food, crafts, collectibles, and books. Those interested are invited to contact PCA President April Peterson by email at pcacathlamet@gmail.com. Silent Auction with a Twist will also include food, drinks, and music. PCA is a 501(c)(3) organization, so donations are tax deductible.

The PCA Board of Directors currently has two current openings. For more info on how to join, email April Peterson at pcacathlamet@gmail.com.