My dog Zoe enjoying the view of Crow Valley farmland
Over and over again, we hear that nonprofits are feeling uncertain. Uncertain about funding, uncertain about policy changes, uncertain whether progress made will unravel, and uncertain about the ability to reach the people that need their services most. At the same time, the community continues to gather, form a web of support, and spark creativity in addressing challenges together.
Earlier this week, I participated in the retreat attended by organizations involved in supporting and sustaining agriculture in the San Juan Islands. Hosted by the Agricultural Resources Committee of San Juan County and San Juan County Ag Guild, the meeting was attended by representatives from island food banks, family resource centers, community land trusts, conservation groups, and others. I learned about how interconnected these organizations are and how central farmers and farmland are to our island communities. Many of these organizations have lost federal grant funding that has been relied upon for years, and there’s growing uncertainty about funding the future of our local food system.
Together with Amy Saxe-Eyler of the San Juan Island Community Foundation and Melora Hiller, who led a successful capital campaign recently on Lopez Island, we discussed successful fundraising strategies and the importance of collaboration and coordinated efforts to raise awareness, strengthen local food resilience, and preserve farmland on the islands. It was eye opening for me, and I’m looking forward to continuing to learn more. If you’re interested in joining me in this journey, I invite you to read the 2025 San Juan County Food System Plan, support organizations involved in preserving farmland, supporting farmers, and ensuring food access, or simply buy locally grown produce and goods whenever possible – it’s certain that we all benefit when we support each other.
New LEAD Grant Program
Applications are now being accepted for the Foundation’s new Leadership, Excellence, Advancement, and Development (LEAD) Grant Program in an effort to strengthen and support professional development for Orcas Island-based nonprofit organizations. Grant funds may be used to cover the cost of continuing education and professional development programs, including registration fees for online and in-person training, conferences, and/or related travel expenses. Detailed eligibility criteria and information about applying for grants can be found on our website.
With gratitude,
Lindsay
Lindsay Jennings
Executive Director
Orcas Island Community Foundation
lindsay@oicf.us
360.376.6423