OICF are fiscal sponsors and supporters of the following initiatives that are important to the health and stability of our community.

Early Childhood Education Initiative (ECEI)
The Early Childhood Education Initiative (ECEI) brings together lead educators and board members from Orcas Island’s three licensed preschools with other community members and expert advisors to develop strategies to strengthen access and quality of early childhood education and allocate funds to implement these strategies. ECEI has achieved dramatic results, creating affordable access to preschool for all families and significantly increasing kindergarten readiness. Strong, stable early childhood education and daycare programs are vital to the health of our island families and our economy. ECEI is seeking community members who are interested in getting involved – please check out their website and get in touch if you are interested.

Island Reproductive Health Initiative (IRHI)

The Island Reproductive Health Initiative (IRHI) is another important program expanding access to reproductive healthcare on Orcas. Confidential, affordable access to birth control and STI testing is critical, especially on our small island with limited healthcare services, and when reproductive healthcare is under threat in our country. IRHI is also empowering island youth with facts and skills through educational programs for middle schoolers and high schoolers. Please follow the links on the IRHI website to get involved or support these initiatives.

LIFT (Local Immigrant Family Treasury)

LIFT is a community-based, emergency fund organization devoted to keeping immigrant families together. The purpose is to increase the diversity of our island’s residents and protect the rights of immigrants who we consider to be one of our most legally vulnerable populations. LIFT provides information to immigrants regarding their legal rights and obligations; emergency immigrant legal assistance; and education regarding various opportunities relating to immigration.