It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Olympia, WA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Best dependable care organization”
“My experience with ABC has been very positive... we needed to change hours of coverage”
“This organization is amazing. We needed care for my dad and they provided support during”
“My name is Tracy, and I’ve been a caregiver with this company since 2017. One”
“I have been with Always Best Care for about 8 months. I couldn't be prouder”
“When searching for Elderly Care Service providers I found that Always Best Care has the”
“Loving & caring staff. Honored to know these caregivers and see them in action!”
“Great team, great clientele, available hours”
“The absolute best in home care services! Our family are so grateful for Phil, Deena”
“There is no better agency than Steve and his team. We went through 4 different”
“The greatest in home care ever!! The staff was very knowledgeable and very caring about”
“They were caring, and did a good job when we finally got the right person.”
“I felt confident that my mom was being taken care of and that she seemed”
“It takes some of the burden off of me. When I need schedule changes, such”
“The services are essential because they're always on time. I would recommend Always Best Care”
“The services have helped him the most by having no confusion about taking their pills.”
“They help with things that I can't do anymore. I like that they always have”
“I work for an assisted living community in Tacoma and often come across potential residents”
“They were proactive, nice, pleasant people. One thing I like about them is that they”
“I worked with Phil and Steve to try and find a memory care facility or”
“The agency can make my life easier by communicating more. I like this agency because”
“Best dependable care organization”
“My experience with ABC has been very positive... we needed to change hours of coverage and Eric was incredibly understanding and affected the changes exactly as requested... The care providers I've observed were very attentive to my Dad's needs...”
“This organization is amazing. We needed care for my dad and they provided support during an incredibly difficult time for our family. Silvia, Lucy and Michael were so kind and compassionate. We were able to adjust the care hours required very efficiently and had lots of support navigating these unfamiliar circumstances.”
“My name is Tracy, and I’ve been a caregiver with this company since 2017. One of the biggest reasons I’m still with this company is because the owners are very supportive and respectful to their employees. The management works well with employees schedules. The management is very dedicated to make sure all clients receive the very best care possible. I cannot recommend this company enough to work for!!”
“I have been with Always Best Care for about 8 months. I couldn't be prouder to represent this company . It's so great to work in an environment where the members of the team have a strong sense of camaraderie and a great work ethic. It's important to me to be able to trust my team members to always do their best because I do.”
“When searching for Elderly Care Service providers I found that Always Best Care has the passion to support the growing community of elders.”
“Loving & caring staff. Honored to know these caregivers and see them in action!”
“Great team, great clientele, available hours”
“The absolute best in home care services! Our family are so grateful for Phil, Deena and their entire home care team! We could not have cared for our mother at home without them!”
“There is no better agency than Steve and his team. We went through 4 different agencies until we found them and have thanked our lucky stars. Reliable, educated and experienced. They have our family’s best interest and heart in mind.”
“The greatest in home care ever!! The staff was very knowledgeable and very caring about our needs.”
“They were caring, and did a good job when we finally got the right person. They were caring, efficient and they did a good job.”
“I felt confident that my mom was being taken care of and that she seemed happy with the caregivers. As far as her life she was well fed, her physical hygiene was taken care of, and she had company. I'd recommend them because the caregivers were well trained and they showed a lot of care for my mother and they also kept the family informed.”
“It takes some of the burden off of me. When I need schedule changes, such as today with an early morning doctor's appointment, they easily change the schedule when we need. I already have. I like that they come and check and find out what our goals are, as well as working with the provider that comes to our home. They are well coordinated.”
“The services are essential because they're always on time. I would recommend Always Best Care because I like the people who they send. They're just outstanding.”
“The services have helped him the most by having no confusion about taking their pills. I want them to follow-up more often.”
“They help with things that I can't do anymore. I like that they always have someone for you.”
“I work for an assisted living community in Tacoma and often come across potential residents and their family members who use Always Best Care for in-home caregiving, as well as senior advising to find long term care placement. Phil and Steve are fantastic care partners, and great advocates for seniors in our area!”
“They were proactive, nice, pleasant people. One thing I like about them is that they are very nice and professional, easy to work with.”
“I worked with Phil and Steve to try and find a memory care facility or possibly an adult family home for my mom who was in late stage Altzheimers disease. They were both so caring, empathetic, understanding and patient with us during the most difficult time for our family. Ultimately we were unable to move mom, but I never felt any frustration or impatience from them, only the utmost care and concern. I would recommend this place to anyone trying to find a care facility or home for a loved one.”
“The agency can make my life easier by communicating more. I like this agency because they are prompt.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Olympia, WA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Olympia, WA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Olympia, WA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
OLYMPIA, WA – Legislation requiring electronic monitoring of sexually violent predators granted conditional release has been unanimously approved by the Washington State House of Representatives.House Bill 1457, sponsored by Rep. Dan Griffey, R-Allyn, “Requires the court to impose electronic monitoring that, to the extent feasible, has specified tracking and notification capabilities...
OLYMPIA, WA – Legislation requiring electronic monitoring of sexually violent predators granted conditional release has been unanimously approved by the Washington State House of Representatives.
House Bill 1457, sponsored by Rep. Dan Griffey, R-Allyn, “Requires the court to impose electronic monitoring that, to the extent feasible, has specified tracking and notification capabilities prior to authorizing a person’s conditional release to a less restrictive alternative,” according to the bill summary.
The bill passed 96-0 on Monday.
Griffey told The Center Square he convened a work group between last year’s legislative session and the current session to find solutions to balance the constitutional rights of offenders who earn conditional release and community safety.
“How they are treated, where they stay, how they get out, all of those things were what we looked at,” he said. “We invited the defense bar too, the Washington public defenders group.”
Griffey said HB 1457 resulted from a conversation he had with a public defender during a work group session.
“One of the defenders who took part told me there was something she could support, and that is advanced monitoring of sexually violent predators when they’re in LRAs or less restrictive alternative settings in communities,” he explained.
The bill mandates that the ankle monitor worn at all times by an offender have geographical boundaries or isolation boundaries, which are tracked 24 hours a day and provide immediate notice of any violation.
“You can draw a pathway that the individual can take, and we can monitor if they step off the pathway,” Griffey said. “The reason defenders like it is they can prove the client is actually living as they’re supposed to. And I think the community can look at it and see that everything the person was required to do, like go to treatment, they did.”
LRAs were created by lawmakers in 2021 for inmates who met conditions of release upon transitioning from the Special Commitment Center, a post-prison-sentence treatment institution for people designated as sexually violent predators, on McNeil Island.
According to the Department of Social and Health Services, “Residents may be transferred to less restrictive alternatives from SCCs total confinement facility on McNeil Island. Residents are constitutionally entitled to a yearly evaluation to determine if they still meet criteria for commitment and if an LRA is in their best interest and if conditions can be imposed that adequately protect the community.”
LRAs can be run by DSHS or operated by a private provider with 24-hour staffing and trained escorts.
Community resistance to LRAs made headlines in early 2023, as reported by Fox 13, when Tenino residents rallied in opposition to a transitional housing facility.
The company that was contracted to operate the home, Supreme Living LLC, opted not to proceed citing expenses with land use requirements.
The Tenino location had been approved for up to five Level 3 sex offenders. Level 3 offenders are considered most likely to re-offend.
There was similar pushback in Enumclaw, where a privately run home called Garden House took in a former McNeil Island resident. The resident stayed only a few months before being moved back to SCC. According to the community group Save Our Children, Garden House is one of 24 LRAs operating around the state.
Griffey said his bill is an honest attempt to balance offender and community rights.
“If we can see that the stalking behavior is improved, then maybe, just maybe we have a system that society can feel better about,” he said. “There’s no way to feel safe with sexually violent predators in the community, but they will be released, so we have to do something.”
Rep. Mari Leavitt, D-Lakewood, spoke in support of the bill during Monday’s floor debate in the House.
“This is an important bill to ensure we’re using existing technology to keep our communities safe,” she said.
HB 1457 has been referred to the Senate Law & Justice Committee.
Originally published by The Center Square on March 5, 2025. Read the full article here
Black History Month museum and events at New Life Baptist Church: Black History Month will again be celebrated throughout February by the New Life Baptist Church in Lacey. Activities are planned for the entire month with the highlight being a Pop-Up Black History Museum that will be open every Saturday of the month from 1-4 p.m. for the public to tour, as well as on each Sunday following church service from noon to 1 p.m. Middle and high school students will have an opportunity to tour the Museum as part of field trips on selec...
Black History Month museum and events at New Life Baptist Church: Black History Month will again be celebrated throughout February by the New Life Baptist Church in Lacey. Activities are planned for the entire month with the highlight being a Pop-Up Black History Museum that will be open every Saturday of the month from 1-4 p.m. for the public to tour, as well as on each Sunday following church service from noon to 1 p.m. Middle and high school students will have an opportunity to tour the Museum as part of field trips on select dates during the week in partnership with local school districts. A Genealogy Workshop is being held on Saturday, Feb. 8, in partnership with the Latter Day Saints of Olympia and the Family Research Center to help Black people learn how to trace their ancestry as part of personal family histories. Age-specific activities for youth will be provided following church service each Sunday. The month’s activities culminate with a Celebration Dinner on Sunday, Feb. 23, following church service. For more information, contact Dr. Thelma Jackson, New Life Baptist Church Community Engagement Ministry, at 360-259-7304 or [email protected]. New Life Baptist Church is at 7838 Pacific Ave. SE, Lacey.
International Guitar Night: This touring show is back in Olympia with three new guitarists making their US debuts plus Olympia favorite Lulo Reinhardt of Germany with his Latin swing music. The new guitarists are Alexandra Whittingham of Great Britain, a classical guitarist; Niwel Tsumbu of the Democratic Republic of Congo, who has a Congolese percussive style, and Soenke Meinen of Germany, a leading contemporary fingerstyle guitarist. The show starts at 7 p.m. Sunday at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts, 512 Washington St. SE, Olympia. Tickets are $29 to $69, plus a service fee.
Friendly Flower Garden Club meeting: Gardeners are invited to join the club meeting at 9:30 am Monday at the Mountain Greens Mobile Home Clubhouse, 5280 55th Lane SE, Lacey, off of Yelm Highway for meet and greet, a brief meeting and a bring-your-own lunch with beverages and dessert provided. There will be two programs: Steve Smith, president of Pacific Northwest Peony Society, will cover the different types of peonies and share how to plant and care for them; and Sue White will lead a hands-on tile art workshop using alcohol inks to create designs on ceramic tiles. All supplies will be provided. Visitors are welcome; this is a free program. Call 360-438-0232 for more information.
National touring company presents Broadway musical “Dear Evan Hansen”: The Washington Center for the Performing Arts is presenting two performances of the groundbreaking musical “Dear Evan Hansen,” at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 5, and Thursday, Feb. 6. The winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, “Dear Evan Hansen” is about a high schooler with social anxiety who creates an important role for himself in a tragedy. Tickets are $69-$149.
History Talk — Whatever Happened to Ambrose Asher? Tumwater’s Schmidt House, 330 Schmidt Place SW, will host this free history talk at noon Thursday. Family stories indicate that young Ambrose Asher was captured by Indians in the 1860s, with his parents’ fate unknown. While the family story was not correct in detail, it provided enough information to discover the truth through genealogical and historical research of the Plains Indian Wars. The story provides a prelude to the Sand Creek Massacre in late 1864 and later events of the Plains Indian Wars. Speaker Dave Welch, a descendant of Ambrose Asher, is a long-time member and officer of the Oregon-California Trails Association. Doors open at 11:30 am; seating is first come, first seated until room capacity is reached.
Samba Olywa dance workshop: The dance troupe is presenting a second workshop for dancers from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, with guest instructor Donna DonnaMation Pongetti, who has choreographed for Samba Olywa many times in the past. The workshop will focus on a dance set to a Brazilian 6/8 rhythm. All are welcome at this workshop, and no pre-registration is necessary. Dancers should wear supportive shoes, and be ready to sweat. The workshop will be held at Eagles Grand Ballroom at Fourth and Plum streets in downtown Olympia. Tuition for the workshop is $5 to $15, on a sliding scale. Teaching begins promptly at 1 pm, so all participants should arrive early to check in. Live music will be provided by Samba Olywa drummers. This new dance will be used in Samba Olywa’s routine for Procession of the Species in April.
Superb Owls at the WET Science Center: It’s owl nesting season! Nesting in the winter means the owlets are hatched and ready to hunt when other baby animals are born in the spring. Come learn all about these spectacular birds through hands-on activities and crafts from 10 am to 4 pm Saturday at the WET Science Center, 500 Adams St. NE, Olympia. Admission is free and activities are for all ages.
Olympia Symphony Orchestra presents Beethover vs. Gulda: To celebrate the Super Bowl the next day, join the Olympia Symphony for a musical matchup: Beethoven vs. Gulda. Featuring cellist Nathan Chan, this concert pits the classic elegance of Beethoven against the dynamic flair of Gulda. The program includes Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3, Eroica, and Friedrich Gulda’s Concerto for Cello and Wind Orchestra (1989) featuring Chan. There will be a Q&A session with conductor Alexandra Arrieche and Chan immediately following the concert, which begins at 3 p.m. Saturday at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts, 512 Washington St. SE, Olympia. Tickets are $17.50 to $91 plus service fee.
Emerald City Music presents Spanish Journey concert: Emerald City Music presents this culturally immersive and musically colorful program titled Spanish Journey, featuring several artists from New York’s Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. The program features Emerald City Music’s artistic director and violinist Kristin Lee, along with Grammy Award–winning guitarist Jason Vieaux, soprano Vanessa Becerra, cellist Clive Greensmith, and pianist Soyeon Kate Lee. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the Minnaert Center for the Arts on South Puget Sound Community College’s Olympia campus, 2011 Mottman Road SW. Tickets are $14 to $55.
25th Anniversary Comedy Show with John Keister: Promoter Baurice Nelson is celebrating 25 years of producing comedy shows in South Sound with this show featuring the original comedians that started it all, including John Keister, a Seattle comedian, writer, rock critic, commentator and motivational speaker, best known as the host of the Seattle TV comedy program Almost Live! from 1988 to 1999. Other comedians included are Chris Alpine, Duane Goad, David Crowe and Teina Manu. Tickets are $25.50 and $35.50 for the show that starts at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at Ricardo’s Kitchen + Bar, 676 Woodland Square Loop SE, Lacey. Ricardo’s will have a snack food and adult beverages available for purchase. If you would like to have dinner, make reservations with Ricardo’s for dining before the show at 5:30 pm or earlier; call 360-413-9995 and let them know you are attending comedy. Doors open at 6:30 pm; please arrive for seating no later than 6:45 pm. Show starts at 7:30 pm and will last about 75-90 minutes.
Would you like to have your event included in our weekly What’s Happening calendar? Email the details to [email protected] at least 10 days before the event. Please put What’s Happening in the subject line.
This story was originally published February 1, 2025 at 12:00 PM.
The holidays are a perfect season to spend some extra time giving back. Maybe it’s a family tradition or one you would like to start! There are a lot of different ways to volunteer too. You can ring a bell, help with food drives, adopt a family and more. No matter what way you choose to give back, the nonprofits and the community members they serve will be extremely grateful. If you are looking for holiday volunteering near Olympia and throughout Thurston County, here are some ideas.Adopt-A-FamilyThurst...
The holidays are a perfect season to spend some extra time giving back. Maybe it’s a family tradition or one you would like to start! There are a lot of different ways to volunteer too. You can ring a bell, help with food drives, adopt a family and more. No matter what way you choose to give back, the nonprofits and the community members they serve will be extremely grateful. If you are looking for holiday volunteering near Olympia and throughout Thurston County, here are some ideas.
Thurston County Adopt-A-Family programs are a wonderful way to give back during the holiday season. They are great for those with busy or unusual schedules that may not fit into regular volunteering hours. You can shop anytime you wish for your family!
Some local Adopt-A-Family programs include Gabi’s Kids, Tumwater Lions Club and ROOF Community Services.
ROOF Community Services always needs volunteers for their Thanksgiving Turkey Baskets and Operation Santa – where you can help collect and distribute clothing and toys. Maybe you want to organize your own holiday food drive – they welcome that too! Find out more on the ROOF website.
Salvation Army has extra volunteer needs during the holiday. Bell ringers are needed in Thurston County! They are looking for both groups and individuals. Sign up on the RegisterToRing website. You can contact Lt. Michael Mott at 360.352.8596 ext. 103 or via email at [email protected] with questions.
The South Sound YMCA’s annual Giving Tree will be up on November 29, 2024! As usual, they would love extra volunteers to help deliver the toys to local families. To get signed up, contact Clara Robbins at [email protected].
Would you also like to donate a toy? You can visit the South Sound YMCA Giving Tree webpage, which has links to their Amazon and Target wish lists. You can have the items shipped directly to the Family Support Center at 3545 7th Avenue SW, Olympia 98502.
Love holiday decorating and spreading cheer? Volunteer with the City of Tumwater’s Christmas Tree Lighting event on December 7, 2024. They need people to help set up, clean up, assist with Santa photos and help people get around the event. Shifts are three hours long. Email [email protected] to sign up.
Whether you help distribute food, pick up food donated at locations throughout Thurston County, or organize a food drive – there are plenty of ways to get involved. The Thurston County Food Bank is grateful for any and all help. You can email [email protected] to ask any questions and find out how you can get involved this holiday season, or visit the Thurston County Food Bank volunteer webpage. There you can see when their next Volunteer Orientation dates and volunteer needs.
Many of us have strummed a ukulele at one time or other, but in the skilled hands of Jake Shimabukuro, it takes on a whole new life and virtuoso sound. On Friday, November 15, 2024, kick off your holiday season with a virtual trip to the land of sand, surf and sea when Jake Shimabukuro takes center stage at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Olympia. His “Holidays in Hawai’i” show celebrates joy, warmth and the infectious charm of his signature instrument.
Shimabukuro is considered to be one of the world’s best ukulele players but he doesn’t simply showcase traditional songs of Hawai’i. For this holiday season, he’ll transform such classics as “We Three Kings” and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” as well as reimagining the contemporary works of 2024’s top musicians.
Alongside traditional Christmas carols and hymns, during his Washington Center visit, Shimabukuro will play selections from his newest album, “Grateful.” This is a follow-up to an earlier record which showcased duets with Willie Nelson, Ziggy Marley, Bette Midler, Jimmy Buffett, Jack Johnson and Kenny Loggins.
Playing with these respected icons helped Shimabukuro find inspiration to showcase the musicians of Hawai’i who have connected with him along his musical journey.
For November’s fusion concert, Shimabukuro will be joined on stage by bassist Jackson Waldhoff and singer/songwriter Justin Kawika Young.
Waldhoff grew up in Japan before moving to Hawai’i at the age of 15. He used his musical abilities as a way to bridge social gaps while he learned English and settled in. Waldhoff has played and recorded with Mick Fleetwood, Mac McAnally, Alan Parsons, Sonny Landreth, Keb Mo, Sam Bush, Taku Hirano, Fiji, Henry Kapono, Mark Yamanaka, Conner Johnson and others.
Kawika Young is a Hawai’i native with 11 number one hits on local island radio. He later moved stateside and toured extensively with Colbie Caillat. His music can be heard on the soundtracks of Point Break, Wild Horses and The Walking Dead.
Tickets to Jake Shimabukuro’s Holidays in Hawai’i show are on sale now. You can purchase them through the Washington Center’s website or at their box office, which is open from noon until 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday or two hours before any ticketed event. Call 360.753.8586 or email [email protected] with questions.
While you’re grabbing the best seats, check out the Center’s other fabulous holiday shows, concerts, performances and events. The uber-funky “The Hip Hop Nutcracker” takes place on November 12 thanks to a cast of all-star dancers, live DJ, musicians and MC Kurtis Blow.
Studio West Dance Theatre’s “The Nutcracker” runs from November 29 through December 1. Kids are invited to “Clara’s Nutcracker Party,” beginning one hour before each matinee performance. They can make a holiday keepsake, delight in a reading of The Nutcracker story, visit and take pictures with characters from the ballet and enjoy holiday refreshments.
In December, get the giggles with the “God is a Scottish Drag Queen: Christmas Special.” If you want to try different versions of “The Nutcracker,” Ballet Northwest’s runs Friday through Sunday December 13 to 22. Or mix it up altogether with “A Magical Cirque Christmas”, which has two shows on December 29.
We can’t always escape during the hectic holiday season. But it’s important to take breaks, refresh and recharge. Thanks to Jake Shimabukuro, you can revel in a Holiday in Hawai’i without the packing, airport traffic or sandy swimsuits. Don’t miss out on the next best thing to tropical nights, crashing waves and the smell of island flowers.
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