Some people volunteer, some people serve, and then there are people like Terry Lippincott— a retired middle school teacher turned civic force of nature. Terry is one of Snohomish’s newest City Council members and a longtime champion of community life, having served 12 years on the Planning Commission. She’s also the president of Friends of the Library, a member of the Lions Club, the Carnegie Foundation, the Giving Circle of Women Taking Over the World—and that’s just what we managed to write down.

But titles only tell part of the story. Terry is a community connector, someone who understands the power of relationships and uses her social capital to bring the right people into the right rooms at the right time. In our conversation, she shares what she’s learned about volunteer stewardship, leadership, and how strong communities are built—not by a single hero, but by people who know how to invite others in.
If you’ve ever wondered how things actually get done in Snohomish, or what it takes to sustain volunteer-driven organizations, this episode is a masterclass.

Basically… if something meaningful is happening in Snohomish, Terry probably had a hand in it.

In this episode, we sit down with Melody Clemans, one of the founding members of the Snohomish Carnegie Foundation and a steadfast steward of one of our town’s most beloved landmarks. Melody’s story is one of quiet determination and deep love—proof that some things are worth fighting for, even when the timeline stretches longer than anyone expects.

After more than 20 years of dedication, Melody saw her vision realized as the Carnegie building once again became the heart of Snohomish—a place where core memories are made, the community gathers to celebrate, and legacy continues to live on.

This conversation reminds us why the work we do matters—not just for ourselves, but for generations yet to come. Our actions, care, and persistence ripple outward in ways we may never fully see, shaping lives and stories far beyond our own.

In this special FAQ episode of Snohomish Storytellers, we’re answering your most common questions about HDSA and downtown Snohomish. From events and advocacy to preservation, partnerships, and placemaking, we’re pulling back the curtain on how downtown works, why it matters, and how this community comes together to keep it thriving. Whether you’re a business owner, resident, volunteer, or just a curious Snohomie, this episode is your guide to the heart of downtown.