The Holistic Homestead, a beloved community hub in Gilpin County, celebrated its annual Member Appreciation Event on Friday, September 8, 2023, from 1 to 5 p.m., and it was nothing short of a tropical delight. The venue was transformed into a Hawaiian paradise, complete with leis, a vibrant luau theme, and a laid-back tropical vibe that set the stage for an unforgettable afternoon of fun and camaraderie.

As members and patrons gathered at the Holistic Homestead’s cozy location at 972 Golden Gate Canyon, they were greeted with a fun and welcoming celebration, including extra discounts and freebies. The menu featured a variety of delectable treats, including fresh watermelon, crisp salads, a potluck assortment of sides, and the star of the show, Plum Ginger Buddha Bowls adorned with edible flowers that brought a burst of color to the event.

One of the highlights of the day was the presence of the talented massage therapist, Bonnie Albrecht, who operates out of an office within the same building. With 15 years of experience, Bonnie offers a range of massage techniques, including Integrative, Swedish, Deep-Tissue, and Sports Massage, while also delving into the world of Myofascial Massage. Her focus is on pain relief and online booking services make her 30, 60, or 90-minute appointments easily accessible.

The event’s soundtrack was provided by DJ Datura, who played reggae tunes that had attendees swaying to the rhythm, adding to the island ambiance of the luau.

An exciting hula-hooping contest was held, with participants of all ages taking part in the spirited competition. Arwen Ek emerged as the victor, showcasing her skills and earning smiles from the crowd.

Ek is the founding director of the Holistic Homestead and has a passion for feeding people. She has a colorful background in herbs, homeopathy, teaching, and freelance writing. She has engaged with both the Gilpin and Nederland communities to create health fairs in the past and incorporated in 2016, gaining a non-profit status in 2017.

“I love this non-profit, I love our membership. They’re like family,” Ek gleamed.

The Member Appreciation Event is an annual tradition at the Holistic Homestead, designed to celebrate the community’s loyal members and patrons. To join this thriving community, individuals can sign up in person or online for a basic annual membership fee of $25 or donate more. Members enjoy a 10% discount on purchases, and those who volunteer receive an impressive 20% off.

The Holistic Homestead is not just about fostering a sense of community but also about supporting local farms and businesses. They proudly collaborate with over 15 local farms and partner with Five Freedoms Farms during the summer to provide members with high-quality dairy products like yogurt and milk. Moreover, the Homestead actively participates in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), ensuring that the market remains accessible to all members of the community.

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic when they first opened their doors in 2020, the Holistic Homestead has grown steadily, signing up 2-3 new members each week and currently boasting nearly 400 members. Members receive exclusive access to a members-only