Blog
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...
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...
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...
One Thing is for Certain
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...
Now Accepting Applications for New LEAD Grant Program
I am so excited for local nonprofits to experience professional development opportunities like this one I attended last spring. For 30 years, the Orcas Island Community Foundation has focused on encouraging and supporting local philanthropy and strengthening...
Comings and Goings at OICF
Our Board and Staff Make Our World Go 'Round! Earlier this month, the OICF Board of Trustees held its annual meeting to elect new trustees and officers to the Board, and recognize retiring trustees for their valuable service. Each of the retiring trustees...
Focus on the Good Stuff
The school year is coming to a close, marking a shift in seasons and exciting transitions ahead. On behalf of the OICF Board of Trustees, I’d like to congratulate the Orcas Island graduating Class of 2025! It's been quite remarkable to learn about their...
Summer is Calling
Daytime low tides are a highlight this time of year! The first few days of warmer weather have finally arrived and the summer calendar of community events is filling up. I love this feeling of anticipation of what’s to come - the school year ending, spring greens...
Celebrating Community and Youth Philanthropy Awards
The community came together for a beautiful day at Parish Hall and the Labyrinth to celebrate the nonprofits that make a difference on Orcas Island every day. With strong local participation and support from the Orcas Island Community Foundation’s Partners in...
Together, We Thrive!
When we come together as a community and give what we can, it’s amazing what we can accomplish. Thank you for standing with local nonprofits during this Spring’s GiveOrcas campaign and supporting what makes Orcas Island truly extraordinary. The spirit of giving was...