Thank you, Summer & Aurora!

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

This past week we had to bid farewell to our incredible year-long AmeriCorps members, Summer Orr and Aurora Smith. These ladies have done a tremendous amount of work despite (what felt like) continuous obstacles this past year:

  • They led the efforts for us to once again hold Green River Rocks!, our a free, educational event that is open to the public. Hosted annually in early Spring in Green River (except for two years during peak COVID) this three day long festival features guests speakers, field trips led by regional experts, and a pop-up market. Summer and Aurora worked with artist Alison Jean Cole, founder of the festival, to ensure it was our best year yet— we had the most field trips and vendors we’ve ever had!
  • They ensured the successful Spring Summit which brings creative practitioners together for a few days of fellowship and conversation over shared meals, performances, installations, hikes, and community service projects. Epicenter’s third Summit was held on March 30 – April 1, 2022. Speakers, featured artists, and participants included Joseph Kunkel & Matt Smith (MASS Design), Chip Thomas (“Jetsonorama”), Ken Layne, and many more folks. Aurora helped ensure the event ran smoothly including by recruiting a paramedic and an EMT for the event, a first! Summer recruited artist/designer Elpitha Tsoutsounakis to do a lecture and a workshop; and she helped artist Chip Thomas with his installation at La Pasadita.
  • Last but not least, they made incredible progress on Pearl Baker Park, our new public park located within our Canal Commons affordable housing development.
  • And so much more…

We know we’ll see them both again soon (heck, Aurora’s still in Green River for a bit longer working at the local Teen Center!) since we’ve known them for years, but it’s still tough to see them go for now. Thank you, Summer & Aurora for your year of AmeriCorps service to Green River!


If you are interested in doing a year of service yourself, visit AmeriCorps.gov for more information.