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 nonprofit organizations. Anniversaries are a good time to reflect upon and celebrate the past, clearing the way for renewal and fresh energy. With this 30th anniversary, the OICF Board of Trustees is embarking on a new strategic planning effort, and we are excited to launch new initiatives and programs in the coming months.
I am thrilled to announce that 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.
One of the Foundation’s longtime strategic goals is to grow community capacity by strengthening Orcas Island nonprofits. Providing access to professional and leadership development is critical to meeting this goal. At a time when nonprofit budgets may be stretched, we hope to make continuing education opportunities more accessible.
Nonprofit organizations are encouraged to apply for financial support to attend programs that will strengthen their team’s leadership skills and promote organizational excellence. LEAD grant applications will be accepted for funding of up to $2,000 per individual, and a maximum of $6,000 per organization, annually. 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.
This inaugural LEAD grant cycle will take place mid-July through mid-August, with grants awarded by late September 2025. Going forward, OICF plans to open applications twice annually in January and June.
LEAD Grants are made possible by generous donations to the Hilary Canty Leadership Fund, which was established to provide educational and experiential opportunities for those interested in improving their understanding of the leadership skills practiced by successful nonprofits, and the Marilyn Anderson Excellence Fund, which was established to promote nonprofit excellence. Contributions are welcome to help us sustain the new LEAD Grant Program.
Do you work or volunteer with a nonprofit? OICF is seeking ideas and feedback from the nonprofit community regarding workshops and resources that would help support staff and board development and training. Please take our survey.
Lindsay
Lindsay Jennings
Executive Director
Orcas Island Community Foundation
lindsay@oicf.us
360.376.6423