What A Great Ride!
Today is my last day as the Executive Director of the Orcas Island Community Foundation. After 18 years, I am stepping down to enjoy retirement with my family. When speaking with folks about my time with OICF, the focus has often been on how much we have grown financially. While we certainly have, more important to me is how we have helped build community over the years.
I look around the island and see so many projects that have been supported through OICF. The Track, the Library Expansion, the Senior Center purchase, so many OPAL housing projects, expanded opportunities at the schools, the free dental services, the Food Bank building and the Early Childhood Education initiative- just to name a few! Behind every one of those efforts is a team of Board members, volunteers, hard working staff and generous donors. Working together, this community has tackled some big issues, we’ve jumped at some amazing opportunities, and we have pitched in to make some crazy ideas a reality. Finding paths to collaborate strengthens the community as a whole.
Building and maintaining community takes patience, tolerance and attention. We may disagree with each other on some things, but we will support each other when truly needed. I feel deeply fortunate to have had the opportunity to get to know so many neighbors through my work at OICF. I look forward to continuing to connect in retirement.
Thanks to all who have supported me, and OICF, over the years. Together, we made a difference!
Best-
Hilary