About Us
The Beaver Island Community Center – Heart of the Island, Home for All
A Place Where the Island Comes Together
Nestled in the heart of St. James, just a short walk from the harbor, the Beaver Island Community Center (BICC) stands as more than a building—it’s a cornerstone of island life. It’s where we gather to celebrate, to learn, to laugh, and sometimes, to lean on each other.
Whether it’s the cheerful chatter of kids during summer art camp, the hum of a local band tuning up before a concert, or the quiet comfort of a movie night in the depths of winter—this is where community happens. And it has been, for years.
We welcome you to learn more about who we are, where we came from, and why the BICC remains one of the most vital parts of Beaver Island life.
Our Story: Built by the Island, for the Island
The dream of a community center on Beaver Island began like many of the best island ideas do—around kitchen tables, in casual dockside conversations, and during long ferry rides with friends. Island residents recognized the need for a shared space that could serve everyone—from longtime families to newcomers, from children to elders, from year-rounders to summer visitors.
In 2006, after years of planning, collaboration, and a lot of hard work, the doors of the Beaver Island Community Center opened to the public.
Since then, the BICC has grown into a place that reflects the heart and spirit of the island itself: creative, welcoming, resilient, and deeply rooted in the idea that we are all better when we’re connected.
Our founding values remain the same today:
- Community above all
- Open to everyone
- Powered by people
- Responsive to need
- Celebratory of the arts, culture, and lifelong learning
Our Mission
The Beaver Island Community Center exists to foster community, creativity, education, and enrichment for all who live on or visit Beaver Island.
We strive to:
- Bring people together across generations and backgrounds through shared events, experiences, and traditions.
- Support youth and families by offering safe, engaging, and educational activities.
- Promote the arts and culture as vital components of island life.
- Serve as a reliable resource during times of need and celebration alike.
- Strengthen the bonds of community through every season, year after year.
We believe a community center should be as dynamic as the people it serves. That’s why our programs evolve, our walls change with rotating artwork, and our doors are open to both ideas and individuals.
What We Do
Whether you live here year-round or come ashore each summer, there’s always something happening at the BICC.
Our Programs and Services Include:
- Live Performances – From island musicians to touring artists, our concert series brings high-quality entertainment to our small island.
- Youth Programs – After-school activities, seasonal camps, teen movie nights, and creative workshops keep our younger islanders engaged, learning, and connected.
- Movies & Film Events – Our upstairs theater offers a regular lineup of family movies, indie films, and community-favorite classics.
- Special Events & Celebrations – Talent shows, holiday gatherings, art fairs, and island history nights bring our shared culture to life.
- Public Resources – Free Wi-Fi, computer stations, printing, information desks, and clean public restrooms make the BICC a hub for everyday needs.
- Meeting & Gathering Space – Local groups, clubs, and visiting organizations use the Center as a place to meet, collaborate, and plan.
When weather turns or the ferry doesn’t run, the BICC becomes even more essential—a place of shelter, of internet access, of familiar faces and shared warmth.
Meet Our Team
We are fortunate to be run by a small but mighty staff, a dedicated Board of Directors, and an ever-growing team of volunteers.
Our Staff
- Executive Director – Mary Ellen Rodgers
A lifelong summer resident turned year-round islander, Mary Ellen brings passion, patience, and vision to everything she does. She ensures the Center remains responsive to community needs while championing the arts and youth programs. - Program Coordinator – Joe McDonough
Joe has a background in music and education. He’s the driving force behind many of our concerts, classes, and youth events. His energy and creativity are infectious. - Operations Manager – Tanya Marks
The glue that holds the daily operations together. From scheduling to stocking supplies, Tanya makes sure the BICC runs smoothly and feels like home. - Youth Lead – Tyler (Ty) Shaw
Ty’s connection with kids on the island is unmatched. Whether he’s leading a LEGO club or running a dodgeball tournament, he’s creating a safe and welcoming environment for all.
Board of Directors
Our Board is made up of island residents, part-time homeowners, and local leaders who believe deeply in the mission of the BICC. They volunteer their time, expertise, and heart to guide the center forward.
Current Board President: Lori Haggerty
Vice President: James “Jim” Malloy
Treasurer: Deborah Nichols
Secretary: Ray Bennett
Additional Members: Sara Green, Oliver McKenzie, Jenna Moore, Carol Howell
Our Volunteers
We couldn’t do this without them. From running concessions to planting flowers out front, volunteers give thousands of hours each year to make this community center thrive. They are truly the soul of the BICC.
Why the BICC Matters
On Beaver Island, we know what it means to depend on one another. We don’t have the conveniences of a big town or city—but what we do have is community. And the BICC is a big part of how we care for that community.
- For some, it’s the first stop after getting off the boat.
- For others, it’s the place to see familiar faces in the heart of winter.
- For kids, it’s a safe and fun space to grow, play, and dream.
- For artists and musicians, it’s a stage and an audience.
- For everyone, it’s a place to feel at home.
When you support the BICC, you’re supporting everything that makes island life richer, kinder, and more connected.
Looking Ahead
As we plan for the future, we’re focused on expanding our programs, improving accessibility, strengthening our building, and reaching more people—both on the island and beyond.
We’re currently working on:
- Upgraded audio/visual systems for film and events
- Expanding youth summer programming
- Sustainable energy and heating improvements
- More inclusive programs for seniors and new islanders
- Growing our volunteer network and community partnerships
Our dream is to ensure the Beaver Island Community Center remains a beacon of togetherness for generations to come.
Come Be Part of the Story
Whether you’re attending a show, dropping off your teen for movie night, helping plant spring flowers, or simply stopping in to say hello, we want you to feel at home here.
The Beaver Island Community Center exists because of people like you—people who care about making our island a little brighter, a little stronger, and a lot more connected.
We invite you to get involved—come visit, volunteer, donate, or just enjoy what we have to offer. Every smile, every hour, every dollar helps keep this place beating with life.
From all of us at the BICC,
Welcome. We’re glad you’re here.
“Together is a wonderful place to be.”