The Vine owner Holly Moody backs Lake Chelan Community Center from vision to reality

CHELAN  — Holly Moody, owner of The Vine coffee shop, has been a supporter of the Lake Chelan Community Center since its earliest days, backing the project before construction began and long before the building became a daily gathering place for residents.

Moody was among the first community members to commit to the center when it existed only as an idea. She and her husband, Ryan, a key member of the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office, moved to Chelan 16 years ago, raised three sons and later saw additional family members relocate to the area.

During construction delays and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Moody continued to invest in the vision. At the suggestion of friends Burke and Jen Bordner, owners of Lakeside Surf and Slidewaters, she agreed to open a temporary coffee stand to help introduce visitors to the surf park and build her customer base.

She launched The Vine in a bamboo tiki hut, a “temporary” experiment that proved successful and is now entering its sixth year of operation.

Moody later opened a second location inside the Lake Chelan Community Center, near the play area and central gathering space. From that vantage point, she said, the center’s impact is visible every day.

“When it’s full and busy — we love it,” Moody said. “This is what it was meant to be.”

Moody said she regularly sees families, homeschool groups, seniors, men’s groups and members of the Hispanic community using the space, as well as new residents finding connections through daily activities.

The Vine offers coffee, tea, smoothies and specialty drinks, but Moody said her business model is centered on community rather than competition.

“We aren’t here to be ‘another coffee shop.’ We’re here to help build community,” she said.

Moody said she is particularly focused on the future development of the community center’s gymnasium and performance space. As a parent of three sons who trained for winter sports in unheated packing sheds, she said year-round indoor space can have a lasting impact on youth, athletes and families.

Holly and Ryan Moody have continued to support the community center through financial contributions, public advocacy and personal involvement. Moody said she believes firsthand experience is often what changes perceptions.

“They don’t know what really goes on down here. I hope they’ll accept the invitation and come take a look,” she said.

She said community support will help expand opportunities already taking place inside the center.

“Your gift will help more people experience the life, energy, and belonging already growing here — and help build what’s needed next,” Moody said.

Those interested in supporting the Lake Chelan Community Center can make a tax-deductible contribution through its fundraising page or contact Executive Director Maribel Cruz at maribel@chelancommunity.org.