Gratefully Building a Dream: Scott Hutchinson Reflects on The Community Center’s Construction Journey

When I sat down with Scott Hutchinson, I knew I was talking with someone who had lived nearly every step of the Lake Chelan Community Center’s creation — from bare ground to grand opening. For seven years, Scott has served on the board, helping guide both the finance and construction committees. I wanted to hear his firsthand reflections — what it took to turn an idea on paper into the 44,000-square-foot hub we now call The Community Center.

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‍“Some donors gave early; others waited until they could see the building open and in use. But they all share the same spirit — gratitude that inspires giving.”

From a Rectangle on Paper to a Community Hub

Scott joined the project when it was little more than a sketch — a 20,000-square-foot rectangle imagined as a simple gym. But early conversations changed everything. Meetings with schools, youth programs, and local residents revealed a broader vision: a true gathering place for the entire valley.

The design expanded quickly — adding multipurpose rooms, a commercial kitchen, and event space. “What started as a small box became something meant for everyone,” Scott said.

As the plan grew, so did the need for a better location. The first site on Anderson Road proved too restrictive, so the board made a pivotal move to Bighorn Way, conveniently situated between Manson and Chelan, and right in the heart of our community. That decision, Scott recalled, “was one of the most important we ever made.”

Building Through a Pandemic

By early 2020, permits were approved, fundraising was strong, and optimism was high — until COVID hit.

Construction stalled. Materials were delayed for months, and entire crews had to quarantine. “We had times when nobody was on site working,” Scott said. “People wondered if it would ever get done. But we never gave up.”

The team adapted, adjusting schedules, ordering materials months in advance, and dividing the project into phases — focusing first on the main building so it could open and generate income while fundraising continued for the gym. “It wasn’t the plan we started with,” Scott said, “but it kept us moving.”

Milestones and Lessons

Early on in our fundraising efforts, a $2.5-million grant gave the project a major boost — and a few new challenges. It required LEED certification and prevailing wages, both of which substantially increased costs. “It didn’t stretch as far as we hoped,” Scott admitted, “but it gave our project credibility and put us on the map.”

Over time, donor support made the difference. The community raised $10 million for Phase One — a remarkable achievement for two small towns. “People stepped up because they believed in what this could mean,” he said.

Another early challenge was perception. Because members of Real Life Church first envisioned the effort, some assumed it would be a church facility. In reality, Real Life helped launch the vision and then wisely spun it off into an independent nonprofit so it could serve everyone. “That decision was critical,” Scott said. “It allowed people from all walks of life to be part of something bigger than themselves.”

A Building That’s Alive

Today, Scott works in an office inside The Community Center — and he wouldn’t have it any other way. “It’s bright, clean, and full of life,” he said. “Some days I can hear the footsteps and laughter of kids upstairs at the Boys & Girls Club — including my son.”

He loves watching the programs flourish, like the Club’s youth golf program, which introduced 30 local kids to the game. “That’s what this place is about — opportunity and belonging,” he said.

What Comes Next

Now attention has turned to Phase Two — completing the gymnasium and performing arts center. Contractors are walking the site, bids are coming in, and much of the infrastructure — plumbing, electrical, and fire systems — is already in place.

“If everything goes as planned, construction should start in early 2026 and finish within a year,” Scott said. “This time, we’re applying every lesson we learned from Phase One — simpler design, smarter sequencing, and better communication.”

Gratitude That Keeps Growing

As we wrapped up our conversation, I asked Scott what he’d say to those who have supported The Community Center — especially as we approach Gratitude Tuesday, our reimagined version of Giving Tuesday.

“I’m so grateful for the people who believed in us when others doubted,” he said. “Some donors gave early; others waited until they could see the building open and in use. But they all share the same spirit — gratitude that inspires more giving.”

After seven years of effort, Scott takes quiet pride in what stands today — and even greater satisfaction in what it represents.

“Volunteering my time to the Seven Acres Foundation,” he said with a smile, “is the most meaningful unpaid work I do.”

Closing Thoughts

Stories like Scott’s remind us that great buildings are made of far more than steel and concrete — they’re built on community, perseverance, and gratitude.

If you haven’t visited the Lake Chelan Community Center, stop by for coffee at The Vine, visit the Boys & Girls Club, or tour the facility that hundreds of volunteers and donors helped create.

Gratitude truly builds on gratitude — and the story of the Lake Chelan Community Center proves it.

To learn more or make a tax-deductible contribution, visit chelancommunity.org or contact Executive Director Maribel Cruz at maribel@chelancommunity.org.