Last week I mentioned the North Valley Community Foundation and the donations they are providing help to those impacted by the Camp Fire. It turns out that they are using the software Chris Sutton developed for OICF. They have been receiving donations from around the globe and have been processing gifts at an amazing rate–up to 480 per hour. This would overwhelm most systems and staff, but they are managing it, thanks to the software. You can check it out at www.nvcf.org.  I am grateful that our investment in this program has had a positive impact across the sector, especially during such a devastating event.

Ralph Kaplan passed away this last weekend (http://www.islandssounder.com/obituaries/ralph-m-kaplan-passages/ ).  I got to know Ralph when he commissioned the Heron sculpture that stands in front of the Historical Museum. Ralph and his wife Terrell also donated the hippo on the corner of Main and North Beach, as well as the numerous sculptures at Orcas Center. He leaves Orcas a more beautiful and engaging place–a lovely legacy for sure.

OICF’s Open House is next Friday, November 30, from 3-6.  Please join us to celebrate our new office and meet our new neighbors. This will also be the kick-off for the Give Orcas Holiday catalog starting with the opportunity to guess this years’ Flat Person.  If you guess correctly, you could win $500 for one of the nonprofits in the catalog.  Hints to follow!

I wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving. Know that I am so grateful for your friendship.
Hilary