Social Connections
GICCA’s goal of enriching and connecting our island community seems even more important during this time when we are unable to gather socially in large groups due to COVID restrictions. Experts have expressed concern that during fall and winter, isolation and depression can be serious issues for many who are being COVID-careful.
GICCA, along with leaders from the Church, GIVE, Guemes Connects, and Groundfloor Guemes, has gathered ideas for COVID-safe activities that will help us all stay connected as well as mentally and physically healthy. We anticipate these ideas and activities to evolve over time. We plan to share these new developments on this page and in the GICCA monthly newsletters. Stay tuned!
Looking for ways to connect? Check out "What's Happening?" at the link above for COVID-safe ideas and activities relating to Food, Friendship, Education, and more.
With walking as one of the easiest and most beneficial forms of exercise, and with Guemes Island being surrounded by the natural beauty that beckons us, GICCA has put together a series of walks designed to bring friends together safely in the great outdoors. Most walks are easy-to-moderate loops with opportunities to challenge yourself by walking faster or further. Whether you end up walking solo, with a partner, or in small groups (of 5 or fewer, please), you’re sure to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul! So, put on your walking shoes and your mask... and let’s meet at the trailhead. Well-mannered, leashed dogs are welcome.
- Walking schedule - See Island Happenings Calendar
- Tips for walkers
- Route maps
- Suggested Self-Guided Walks

Ted Talks & Virtual Learning
Pick a podcast from our list of recommended Ted Talks or choose a link to a virtual learning topic. Ted Talks are short powerful, influential videos/podcasts from expert speakers with topics from education, science, environment, business, art, politics, and more. Choose one of the learning links to travel destinations, humor, music, and more.
Virtual Learning Options on Your Phone
When you're enjoying a walk somewhere on Guemes Island… you may hear a bird or observe a plant and wonder, "What is that?" Fun and informative "apps," available in the App Store on your smartphone, can help answer the question! You can identify the call of the Morning Dove or learn more about the type and uses of Oregon Grape (Mahonia) - for free (or almost). Here's a sampling:
- Song Sleuth, Automatic bird song identification (Free)
- Picture This, Identify flowers, leaves, trees, and herbs with just a click of the phone (Free Trial and $30 year)
- PlantNet, Plant identification (Free)
Feel free to offer your personal virtual learning suggestions by emailing 4Gicca@gmail.com
There are several interesting speakers lined up for a Guemes Island virtual lecture series, but we're still are looking for a few volunteers to help with the technical part of this project to coordinate and manage large presentations on Zoom.
Check out the link above for ideas on how you can connect with others and share your interests or talents.