OPAL Recognizes Helen L. Bee, Champion of Affordable Housing

OPAL Community Land Trust leadership and supporters gathered at the Bee Lane street sign in April’s Grove to recognize
Helen L. Bee for her long-term efforts in support of affordable housing on Orcas Island. A plaque was set into a glacial greenstone to honor her contributions to April’s Grove rental neighborhood, in particular, and to OPAL and affordable housing steadily since 2002. 

“Helen Bee is a champion of affordable housing on Orcas Island,” said Lisa Byers, Executive Director since 1996. “She took on OPAL’s mission with purpose and made a significant difference for the wellbeing of our community. She truly believes in the power of a stable home to give islanders a chance to live their best possible lives – and contribute back to the community.”

Helen served on the OPAL Board of Directors from 2006-2015 and was a strong leader for the organization’s fundraising efforts. Those who attended OPAL’s gala events of yesteryear will remember Helen’s capacity for fun, for breaking into song – to make a point – and her dedicated approach to connecting OPAL supporters with the community benefits that affordable housing provides to ALL islanders.