Fostering philanthropy to enhance and preserve the quality of life on Orcas Island
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The Orcas Island Community Foundation (OICF) was founded in 1995 to help build and strengthen our community by encouraging and supporting local philanthropy and by connecting people and organizations who want to make a difference by improving the quality of life on Orcas Island.

 

The Council on Foundations’ 2023 national survey ranked the Orcas Island Community Foundation (OICF) #1 for Gifts per Capita and #18 for a 25% distribution rate, reflecting the community’s truly remarkable generosity. While Orcas Island is often seen as a wealthy enclave, nearly 25% of residents require financial support due to the ever growing affordability gap. Local nonprofits like OPAL, the Food Bank, the Community Resource Center, and the Senior Center provide essential services, relying on community donations to meet increasing needs. OICF is honored to support both donors and nonprofits in ensuring all neighbors receive the help they need. View the full results to learn more. 

Looking for ways to support Orcas Island?

There are many ways to give back. It’s our goal to make it easy for you to invest in the nonprofits you care most about, get involved in projects that tackle community challenges, help meet critical needs and improve the quality of life for all on Orcas Island.

Orcas Island Dental Clinic
A small village nestled in conifers from the water.

Read the report on OICF’s and the community’s response to the Covid pandemic.

Learn more here

Arial view of map of property for sale with bible diagram overlaid

OICF helped to purchase the Pea Patch Property which will serve as a nonprofit campus.

Learn more here

Mural on fence at Salmonberry

Take a look at our Annual Report. It’s full of pictures and great stories. Working together. Helping each other.

See the Annual Report 

Lance and Janet at OIEF Auction

Donors

Learn how to donate to a fund, how to set one up, the funds that we have and much more.

OISD Art Class

Nonprofits

Learn about capacity building, annual grants awarded, GiveOrcas and other resources we offer.

Seniors in a computer class

Community Programs

Learn about some of the resources that are available to the members of our community.

OICF Welcomes You cover image with Turtleback Mountain, fog and sheep in field

Welcome Home.

We are delighted to have you as a neighbor and look forward to getting to know you. 

Thank you for the opportunity to introduce you to the Orcas Island Community Foundation (OICF). This Packet gives you a brief look into the community, the work of OICF and the local nonprofits. We encourage you to stop by our office to say hi.

Most Recent Blog Posts

Help Shape Our Foundation’s Future

Help Shape Our Foundation’s Future

Let's Grow Something New Together   Dear Orcas Island Community, The Orcas Island Community Foundation is embarking on an exciting strategic planning process to guide our work over the coming years, and we need your input to make it meaningful and impactful for...

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How Was Your Summer?

How Was Your Summer?

Summer Sunset Over Orcas Island In these final weeks of summer, a common question we ask each other is “how has your summer been?” Often the answer includes a mix of exhaustion and joy, and a bit of sadness and excitement for the turning of the season. Summer is the...

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The Arts Keep Us Connected

The Arts Keep Us Connected

Musical Artist Delighting the Orcas Community Even in challenging times, the arts have a way of reminding us who we are as a community. They bring neighbors together, spark conversations, and open doors to new perspectives. They nourish our spirits when headlines feel...

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