THE VINE: Where Community Pours, Connection Grows, and Hope Stays Warm

If you arrive at the Lake Chelan Community Center early enough, you might find owner, Holly Moody, behind the counter at The Vine, warming her hands around a simple cup of straight black coffee — her favorite, even with a wall of flavored syrups behind her. The smile on her face and the energy in her eyes tell you immediately: this isn’t just a coffee stand — it’s a calling.

Standing alongside the bold block letters that spell out THE VINE, Holly appears right at home — relaxed, grounded, and exactly where she believes she is meant to be

A Yes When It Was Only a Dream

Holly wasn’t just an early supporter — she was one of the very first to say “I’m in,” back when the Lake Chelan Community Center existed only as a concept built on faith, sketches, and perseverance. 

She and her husband, Ryan (a key member of the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office), moved to Chelan 16 years ago, raising three boys and eventually bringing multiple generations of family to follow. What started as a relocation became a legacy decision. 

When unanticipated delays and COVID slowed construction, Holly didn’t pull back — she built forward anyway. Her friends, Burke and Jen Bordner, owners of Lakeside Surf and Slidewaters, suggested exploring a temporary option to help people discover the new surf park and build Holly's customer base.

She said yes and opened The Vine inside a bamboo tiki hut — an unexpected and wildly successful launch that is now headed into its sixth season. So much for temporary!

More Than a Coffee Bar — A Front-Row Seat to Real Community

From the counter of her now second location — just steps from the play area, open seating, and central gathering space of The Community Center— Holly sees what many don’t: the building is working.

Every day she witnesses:

• Moms relaxing while kids safely play
• Homeschool families finding structure and warmth
• Older women mentoring young moms
• The longtime knitting group is finding its new home
• Men’s meet-ups are growing again
• The Hispanic community utilizes the center confidently and joyfully
• New families integrating into Chelan through a simple daily rhythm

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

Purpose Over Popularity

The Vine’s menu may read like a familiar list of lattes, teas, smoothies, and Lotus drinks, but Holly’s approach is anything but ordinary.

She chooses quality over volume, mission over competition, and people over product. She openly celebrates other cafés, researches every ingredient, and considers her employees an extension of her family — not a roster.

‍“We aren’t here to be ‘another coffee shop.’ We’re here to help build community.” ~ Holly Moody.

And people return — even though her café requires intention rather than convenience.

The Next Chapter She Can’t Wait For

While some are most excited about a future swimming pool or large-scale events, Holly’s eyes are fixed on the gymnasium and performance space.

As the mom of three boys who practiced winter sports in unheated packing sheds, she knows precisely what year-round, indoor space can mean for youth, athletes, dancers, performers, families, and school partnerships. 

To Holly, the gym isn’t a luxury — it’s a community changer.

Belief, Gratitude, and Invitation

Holly, Ryan, and The Vine have never stopped supporting The Community Center’s mission — financially, personally, and publicly. She believes the best way to change minds isn’t to debate but to extend an invitation. Her approach is simple: come in, share a cup, take a tour, experience the heart of this place, and then decide — because, as she says, once someone walks through the doors, the conversation changes.

Let’s Build the Future Together

The story is working, so let’s continue to write the next chapter. Join those who believed early by giving now or on a monthly basis. Holly reminds us that many people simply haven’t seen what’s happening inside the center yet — “they don’t know what really goes on down here. I hope they’ll accept the invitation and come take a look.” 

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

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