The Funhouse Commons

The Funhouse was founded in September 2000 by local activist Jim Bredouw. He and his wife Anne wanted to construct a facility designed to inspire, teach & enchant kids, believing the philosophy that the best return on investment isn’t always measured in dollars. Investing in the future of children was the smartest investment they could make.

Originally, The Funhouse, a 501 c(3) organization, was designed and used as a children’s science museum. It served not just as a tourist destination, but as an educational workshop, a home-schooling center, a location for field trips, parties & community meetings, and as one of the primary hangouts of Orcas Island youth. It was a place where young people could enjoy each others’ company in a safe, stimulating & constructive environment.

In 2017, thanks to the generosity of the Henigson family, The Funhouse underwent a large building remodel, transforming it into what it is today: a youth-focused community learning center currently serving over 500 Orcas Island youth ages birth – 18 (that’s 70% of the Orcas youth population!). We never turn any families away due to lack of funds which means we rely solely on individual donations & grant support.