Patricia Benton
Orcas Island Community Foundation, Treasurer
Orcas Community Resource Center, Chair
Can you share a little bit about yourself?
My husband, Bruce, and I moved to Orcas full-time in 2020 (no not because of COVID) after spending time here since 2016. We lived in Maryland for over 30 years and wanted a new adventure after I retired. We spent two years looking throughout the west and knew Orcas was for us after our search. We are lucky that three of our four children live in Seattle and hope to entice the fourth and his wife to move closer someday.
I have had an amazing career as a Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer for several international companies and non-profits, covering telecommunications, health, and social convening. My jobs took me all over the world, and now all I want to do is stay on Orcas. While the travel was amazing, the most meaningful part of my work was mentoring young professional women and watching them grow in confidence and leadership.
I love running, hiking, kayaking, and exploring with my husband and dog, Mara. We are busy trying new experiences whether it is Tai Chi, yoga, or Spanish classes—our days are incredibly rich with new adventures.
Tell us a little bit about the organization you volunteer at.
I am currently the Treasurer on the Board of Directors for the Orcas Island Community Foundation (OICF) and the Chair of the Board for the Orcas Community Resource Center (OCRC). I first became involved with OICF by serving with incredibly knowledgeable people on the Investment Committee. I was really taken by their commitment to the organization and when asked to join the Board, I was excited to serve alongside a strong enthusiastic group of board members.
I am drawn to OICF because the organization and staff are dedicated to supporting and strengthening the non-profits on Orcas. The support is not only through grants, fundraising or managing funds, but also trainings and guidance. OICF sees issues in our community and is focused on helping find solutions through community engagement or assisting other non-profits in the community. I truly love working with the staff— they are amazing.
What does volunteering do for you?
Volunteering for me is a way to say thank you to the community where I live. It helps me make connections to the special people who are giving their time to support our island and who share the same interests and values that I share. It also is a way for me to channel all my excess energy!
Take a look around while you are on our site to learn more about OICF and visit the Orcas Community Resource Center to learn more. Reach out to us or them if you would like to get involved.
If you would like to learn about other volunteer opportunities on Orcas, please email Ed. He would love to get together for tea/coffee to chat about your interests.