Originally posted March 10; updated March 15

Friday Harbor Elementary School was filled with the sound of more than 300 drums March 8 in an event sponsored by the San Juan Island Prevention Coalition.

Kenya Masala and Maketa Wilborn, representatives of the Source Consulting Group, brought their community-building expertise to San Juan Island. The two utilize the music and symbolism of the drum music to build a stronger sense of community.

The school gym was full and the evening’s music went on for more than an hour.

Masala was brought to San Juan by the Prevention Coalition for the all-day Youth Leadership Summit at Friday Harbor High School. Some 108 students from San Juan Island and two from Lopez Island participated in a day of hands-on activities designed to build self-confidence, as well as friendships.

This is the second year the Prevention Coalition has offered this Youth Leadership Summit. The coalition works to reduce teen substance abuse.

“I thank (Prevention Coalition coordinator) Cynthia Stark-Wickman for creating such an experience for our students,” Debbi Fincher said. “She brings years of experience and enthusiasm to our community for healthy choices through healthy voices.”