From the beginning, it was our intention to create this sustainable demonstration site downtown for our community. We believe people need to see what's possible in order to emulate it. We do a lot of tours for local people and enjoy a steady stream of regular visits from neighbors, supporters and curious passers-by.
In the 1990's, when the state of Washington chose the City of Olympia as a model city for sustainability, it seemed like an exciting opportunity to really go Green. Our city council and public officials have been working to make that dream come true. (City Council's Goals for 2006)
Since 1998, our response has been to create this lovely demonstration site. Because we needed some way to sustain ourselves as we developed, we began operating the Fertile Ground Guesthouse in 2000. In 2005, we incorporated as a state non-profit, Fertile Ground Community Center and became a project of A.W.I.S.H. (A World Institute for Sustainable Humanity), our 501(c)3 fiscal sponsor.
Now we are operating both businesses at once. We demonstrate and educate sustainable living practices through green lodging, tours, classes and workshops. If you're planning a visit to Olympia, check out our calendar to see what else might be happening during your stay. You are welcome to participate in any way that makes your stay here more enjoyable
