An end of year message:
Happy holidays to you as a valued member of our Commons Community!
My name is Silje Sodal (pronounced Sil’-ya So’-dahl), and I’m thrilled to serve as the new Executive Director of Third Place Commons. Since July, I’ve been deeply honored to continue the mission of building “real community in real space” right here in Lake Forest Park—a mission that resonates personally for me as a resident of nearly 20 years.
I’m writing today to ask for your contribution to keep Third Place Commons going strong into its 25th year. Your tax-deductible gift today will directly support the Commons space, programs, and services, which are only possible with financial support from donors like you!
Everyone is welcome at the Commons! Today, the space is buzzing with conversation, craft-making, teens playing games, lunch meetups, and more. Our lively music nights with open dancing, all-ages events, language groups, and art and writing meetups bring together a vibrant mix of people, building relationships that strengthen our community. A quick look at our online calendar reveals the many programs and performances we host each week at the Commons and on the Commons Stage. Third Place Commons is your go-to spot for everyday connections, fostering social well-being in Lake Forest Park and beyond.
We also serve as a vital resource for nonprofits, local groups, and small businesses, donating use of our space, facilities, and tech support to help them carry out their good work. From ballet recitals and youth theater to civic education and town halls, the fabric of our community is embedded in the Commons.
And at the Lake Forest Park Farmers Market, we connect local farmers and artisans with our community while ensuring access to fresh, healthy food for those in need through programs like SNAP/EBT, WIC, and our own Market Bucks initiative. Many of the farmers have been with our Market since the beginning—a true testament to the strong community bonds and trust that make it a cherished gathering place year after year.
As we prepare for an exciting 2025 – celebrating the 25th anniversary of Third Place Commons and the 20th anniversary of the Farmers Market – we warmly invite you to contribute to keep this vital social hub humming!
All Commons events and resources are offered completely free to the public, welcoming more than 20,000 people to Commons events and nearly 70,000 to the farmers market and craft fairs each year. But every event, every market day, and every community gathering depends on the support of generous individuals like you.
Please send your gift by December 31st so this vibrant community center can continue to thrive and serve you and your neighbors! Make your donation online at www.thirdplacecommons.org/give, or mail your check to Third Place Commons, P.O. Box 8355, Kenmore, WA 98028.
Thank you for being such an essential part of our Commons Community! I’d love to meet you in person, so please feel free to stop by my office next to the Stadler Room when you’re visiting.
With deep gratitude,
Silje Sodal
Executive Director
P.S. We hope to see you at our upcoming Lake Forest Park Holiday Farmers Market on December 15th (10 AM – 2 PM). Stock up on last-minute gifts and holiday dinner essentials with a fantastic selection of food and artisan vendors. We hope to see you there!
P.P.S. Just a reminder that Third Place Commons is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, which means that your donation is 100% tax-deductible to the full extent permitted by law. Please make your gift today to help ensure a thriving community gathering space for years to come. Thank you!