Filipino Community of Bainbridge Island & Vicinity

Filipinos on Bainbridge Island have been engaging in Community support since their arrival in the 1930's. At the time of the Japanese internment, many Filipino farmhands cared for the property and harvests of those taken from their home. Upon their return, many Japanese landowners offered parcels of property to the Filipinos as a show of appreciation.

The Filipino Community Hall is a favorite gathering place for celebrations of all types. Establised in 1943 the "Hall" has been a location to convene for decades of Islanders. The hall is open to the public, and has hosted everything from weddings and funerals to Class Reunions and Rummage sales.  Community groups such as Weight Watchers, Bainbridge In Bloom, and Studio Tours have regularly used the Hall for their weekly and annual events.

Community members are always ready to offer a helping hand to anyone in need.  It is not uncommon for someone to show up unannounced with an offering of food and a warm smile to share.  

Fil-Am has partnered on numerous occasions with Fil-Am Kitsap, Filipino Womens Club of Kitsap, the Suquamish Tribe and recently the National Society of Filipino American History. The unique history of Filipinos in the Pacific Northwest has garnered national attention.

The Filipino American Community of Bainbridge Island & Vicinity (Fil-Am) is a non profit 501c3 organization located on Bainbridge Island. The Filipino American Community Hall is listed on the National Register of Historic sites and is said to be the oldest formation of its type in the country. 8.1 acres of the original parcel of land was sold to the US Government to facilitate an Army NIKE anti-aircraft missle battery.  The land was later surplused and acquired to form Strawberry Hill Park.