Community Support

Community Support

One of my neighbors has breast cancer. She was pretty scared when they discovered it. She works as a caregiver, so becoming the one cared for was challenging, but she eventually opened up to the support of many friends. Every other week, a volunteer flies her over to...
Blue Skies

Blue Skies

Finally, the smoke has cleared, and perhaps more exciting, there is a chance of rain in the forecast!  We can hope it actually comes to pass, as it has been one long dry summer. OICF is planning a series of focus group meetings to further develop our Children’s Saving...
Donor Advised Funds at OICF

Donor Advised Funds at OICF

There have been a few articles about Donor Advised Funds in the news lately, spurned by the amazing growth of the Silicon Valley Community Foundation. They have amassed over a Billion dollars under management, but do not have a great record of getting those dollars...
August is underway!

August is underway!

The thousand days of August are upon us. Both Doe Bay Fest and the Chamber Music Festival get underway this weekend, the park campground is on overload, and the ferry reservations are as well.  Ah, Summer. Fortunately, the lake is perfect for swimming and the...
Thank you, Lahari

Thank you, Lahari

Aging in a rural and remote community presents unique challenges. Access to health care can be difficult and care providers may be both limited and quite costly. Frequently, transportation becomes an issue when driving is no longer an option. Orcas is very fortunate...
Music to my heart

Music to my heart

One of the joys of living in a small community is that you get to know so many people. I have especially enjoyed watching the youth of Orcas grow into adulthood and seeing what sparks their passion. It seems that Orcas is fertile ground for many to blossom. One such...