Fathoms of Fun has been an important part of Port Orchard’s history, but without new volunteers, the group itself could become history—putting at risk many community events that townspeople and visitors love.

There have been concerns about the future of the Fathoms O’ Fun Festival in Port Orchard for years due to a decline in volunteers.

The concern is even more dire now as two new board members are needed. If a new chairperson and treasurer don’t step up by the end of November, Fathoms will have to start the process of dissolution.

If no new volunteers step up then the Port Orchard Grand Parade, 4th of July fireworks, summertime Concerts By the Bay, and numerous other community events will be canceled indefinitely, along with the scholarship program for youth.

Anyone interested in helping can go to the Fathoms board meeting Nov. 20 at 6 p.m. at the Windermere Real Estate office, 1200 Bethel Road, and/or contact vice chair Jon Hohol at 360-990-5889.

Fathoms has been stalwart in Port Orchard for over 50 years. It organizes the July 4 fireworks at Sinclair Inlet, and the parade on the last Saturday of June. It helps local youth learn leadership and life skills through its Scholarship Royalty Program. Fathoms also is involved with summer concerts, the Easter Egg Hunt, numerous Port Orchard craft & vendor shows helping support the community’s small businesses, Santa Breakfast and much more.

Many of the same volunteers have been doing the work for years and are ready to retire. Some will still be available to help guide new volunteers.

”We are all willing to help those interested to step up, both with transitioning and understanding these roles, as well as providing all the support necessary to keep Fathoms going for years to come,” a Fathoms news release says.