Welcome to the Sanibel Community Association. We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization governed by a volunteer board of directors. The funds we raise through membership dues, fundraisers, special events, donations and room rental income are used to operate The Community House.
Established in 1927 as a local gathering place for all residents and visitors, The Community House was the birthplace for many civic groups and the incorporation of Sanibel as a city. We invite you to explore the links below and learn more about our rich history and exciting future.
The Early Days | Who & What We Are | About SCA, Inc. | Our Staff | Careers At SCA
The Early Days
Our Founder - Curtis Perry
A confirmed bachelor and resident artist, part-time Captiva resident Curtis Perry, of Brunswick, Maine, (at 60 years of age), walked the length of Captiva and Sanibel and convinced residents a community center was needed. Going door to door, he not only got them to believe in the idea, he asked them to contribute money, labor and materials to make the center a reality.
Who & What We Are
Who We Are
OUR MISSION STATEMENT:
"To enrich community spirit through educational, cultural and social gatherings in our historic Community House."
The Sanibel Community Association (SCA) operates “The Community House." Read more about the SCA.
The Community House is considered to be "The Heart of the Island", with it's rich history as serving islanders as both a gathering place for island activities as well as a rental space for private events.
Built in 1927, The land upon which the SCA sits was donated by one of Sanibel's original residents, Cordie Nutt. Keeping The Community House in service to the community is a Sacred Trust carried on by the board of directors.
The Community House is considered to be the birth place of most island organizations and clubs, providing meeting space as well as a space for Fund raisers. Most of these clubs and non profit organizations exist today and still consider The Community House to be their "Home".
History is rich within the walls of The Community House. The Historic "North Room" has been open to the public since 1927.
We invite you to stop in for a tour, and see for yourself where it all began.
What We Are
- The Community House serves as the historical heart of the island. Within the walls, any public, private, individual or group is welcome.
- Whether it's a public, private, or civic event/meeting/educational program/or social gathering, we can assist you with your needs.
Today, We Are
- A vibrant, growing and expanding center hub of the island.
- In order to meet the continued needs of our community, updating to our house is needed.
- Plans are underway to not only bring The Community House up to current building codes, but we are currently exploring all opportunities to become an eco-friendly home.
- Plans will expand and update the much-used kitchen with high efficiency appliances, along with environmentally friendly bathrooms, a new roof, electric and plumbing upgrades, all the while keeping our commitment to honoring our rich history by preserving our historic rooms.
About SCA, Inc.
Independent, 501(c)(3) Organization
The Sanibel Community Association (SCA) is an independent, 501(c)(3) organization that operates “The Community House,” a place that not only serves as an event location but also offers rental space. The Community House is composed of 3 rooms that can be rented separately or altogether (the entire building). Churches, civic organizations, clubs, non-profits, and island families have used The Community House for their parties, weddings, fundraisers, and other special events. Located conveniently on the west end of Periwinkle near Dunlop Road, The Community House is close to all the shopping on Sanibel and is the place to meet neighbors and friends!
As a 501(c)3 organization we rely solely on donations, events, memberships and facility users. We do not receive City funding.
Historically, The Sanibel Community Association was one of the first non-profits on the island; and after 85+ years, The Community House is still the gathering place of Sanibel. Many social organizations, civic groups, and clubs that first found a home here at The Community House are still here to this day! Though the Sanibel Community Association and therefore the Community House are not part of the City of Sanibel government or properties, the city actually has its roots here; the famous referendum of 1974 that incorporated the City of Sanibel was held here! The historic North Room was also the meeting place for the very first City Council meetings. The Community House also hosts many large events and festivals including the Annual Shell Show and Festival, which is one of the largest and longest running Shell related shows in the world; and it funds a large portion of SCA’s operations within the community.
We invite you to be a contributing partner and help support events in our historic building, the only island venue that is uniquely Sanibel. There is always something happening at The Community House. Come join us and see!
Sanibel Community Association Inc. FEIN#59-1060466
