Want help navigating next year’s tax season — without the stress?

Join us for an informative and friendly afternoon with Sue Curtis, long-time volunteer counselor with the AARP TaxAide Program. AARP TaxAide offers free, confidential tax preparation for people of all ages and income levels — and right here in Skagit County (Anacortes, Burlington, and Concrete).

Sue has 12 years of experience preparing taxes, 8 years as the Burlington site coordinator, and 5 years as the District Coordinator — she knows her stuff, and she loves helping people feel confident and prepared.

We’ll cover new changes that may affect your 2025 return — and you’ll have a chance to ask questions in a relaxed, friendly environment.

Light snacks and herbal tea will be served.
Come learn something useful — and leave feeling more prepared and empowered for tax time!

Join author A. Muia for a reading from her recently published novel, A Desert Between Two Seas, winner of the Flannery O’Connor Award for Short Fiction. Enjoy slides and tales of her research by Jeep, mule, and boots—in the desert ruins of the Spanish colonial missions of Baja California, Mexico.

Books available for purchase.

Helping Hands Food Bank — Making a Difference in Our Community

Join us for a meaningful Lunch & Learn highlighting the work of Helping Hands Food Bank — a local organization dedicated to making sure everyone in Skagit County has access to nutritious food and the support they need to thrive.

Helping Hands does more than stock shelves. Their staff works one-on-one with people facing challenges like housing instability, unemployment, or sudden financial strain — helping connect them to resources, partners, and practical support. Their mission is rooted in dignity, respect, and community care.

At this session, you’ll hear about:

• how Helping Hands serves neighbors right here in our region

• the partnerships that make their work possible

• how volunteers and donors make a real impact

• simple ways you can get involved or support the cause

Bring your lunch and join us for an inspiring conversation on community, compassion, and how small actions can help change lives for the better.

Herbal tea will be provided.

Looking for something lighthearted, social, and good for your health?

Join us on November 13, 2–3pm in Studio A for a fun and uplifting Lunch & Learn with Toni Fielder, Certified Laughter Leader. Toni will guide us through “laughter yoga” — a simple and joyful way to lower stress, support your immune system, and boost your mood.

No yoga mat, special clothes, or bending/twisting required — you can participate fully right from your chair. Just bring your smile and enjoy some laughs with friends at the Y!

We’d love to see you there — you’ll leave feeling lighter, brighter, and more energized!