A Community-Driven Initiative: Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park
- Julie McVey

- Dec 15, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: 58 minutes ago
If you don't know about Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park (FLSSP), you should. They are a community-driven force behind some of Seattle's most inclusive outdoor programming. Events like Spring Into Adventure, Walk N Wags, Camp S'more, and Winterfest bring together hundreds of families, dog lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and neighbors. These events allow everyone to experience the park in ways that foster real connections.
The Mission of FLSSP
FLSSP's mission goes beyond recreation. It focuses on access, community, and creating spaces where everyone belongs. They have built something rare: a year-round calendar of events that meet people where they are. Whether you're a hiker, a dog parent, a family seeking overnight camping adventures, or someone who simply wants to enjoy the outdoors with neighbors, FLSSP has something for you.
Our Exciting Partnership
And we get to be part of that!
Throughout 2026, Wicked Rae's will be embedded in their major events. We will bring texture-based art workshops that complement what FLSSP already does so well. Our goal is to create moments where strangers become neighbors, where families connect across generations, and where community truly means something.
Workshop Highlights
We'll be designing workshops that:
Celebrate the outdoor focus of Spring Into Adventure with nature-inspired textures.
Honor our four-legged family members at Walk N Wags with paw print art.
Create family memories during the overnight Camp S'more experience.
Bring seasonal magic to Winterfest with tactile holiday creations.
Building Community Together
What excites us most is that FLSSP has been building community foundations for years. They have proven that when you create accessible, inclusive, and meaningful experiences, people show up. Their hard work in trust-building, consistency, and understanding community needs is commendable.
We're honored to support that vision by adding a creative dimension to what they've already built.
This partnership isn't just about us bringing art to their events. It's about amplifying the connection, preservation, and healing that FLSSP is already creating through outdoor community programming.
The Power of Connection
When you combine tactile creation with the outdoor experiences FLSSP designs, something powerful emerges. People put their phones down, get their hands dirty, and engage in real conversations. Culture gets preserved. Generations connect. Communities become unshakeable.
That's the work Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park has been doing. We're just adding texture to it, literally 🤗
A Heartfelt Thank You
To the FLSSP team: thank you for trusting us with this opportunity. We see what you've built, we respect the community you serve, and we're committed to supporting your mission in 2026 and beyond.
To everyone else: if you're in the Seattle area and you're not following Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park yet, you should be. They are building the kind of community infrastructure we all need more of.
Join Us at the Park
We invite you to join us at the park. Together, we can create lasting memories and strengthen our community bonds. Let's make 2026 a year to remember! 🌲🎨
The Importance of Community Engagement
Community engagement is vital for any thriving society. It fosters relationships and encourages collaboration among residents. When people come together, they share ideas and resources. This leads to a stronger, more resilient community.
Benefits of Outdoor Activities
Outdoor activities are not just fun; they offer numerous health benefits. Fresh air and physical activity improve mental well-being. They also promote social interaction. Events organized by FLSSP provide a perfect platform for this.
Creating Lasting Memories
Memories created in nature often last a lifetime. The laughter shared during a family camping trip or the joy of a dog-friendly event can be cherished forever. These experiences shape our lives and strengthen our connections with others.
The Role of Art in Community Building
Art has a unique ability to bring people together. It encourages self-expression and creativity. Our workshops will enhance the outdoor experiences offered by FLSSP. They will allow participants to create something tangible that represents their connection to nature and community.
Looking Ahead
As we move into 2026, we are excited about the possibilities. Our partnership with FLSSP will continue to grow. Together, we will explore new ways to engage the community. We aim to inspire more people to connect with nature and each other.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the collaboration between Wicked Rae's and Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park is a beautiful example of community-driven initiatives. By combining art with outdoor experiences, we can create lasting connections. Join us in making 2026 a memorable year filled with creativity, connection, and community spirit!



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