We are now accepting applications for the 2015 competitive grants program. Trustee Coleen O’Brien will chair the committee, whose members include both OICF Trustees and community members. In last year’s grants cycle, OICF, together with its Partners in Philanthropy, awarded over $133,000 to 28 different Island organizations including requests to help Islanders with health insurance and housing assistance through Orcas Family Connections, support the new Youth Conservation Corps, and sponsor the Orcas High School leadership training program.
While all grant applications will be considered, OICF will prioritize proposals that increase our capacity as a community to address specific ongoing and emerging needs. To this end, we encourage grant applicants to submit requests that:
Increase coordination and cooperation of programs and services
Develop pathways of communication to enhance outreach and support
Serve a large number of islanders
Have measured impact on those served
Address how funding will add to the sustainability of your project/program
Organizations are encouraged to contact OICF to discuss grant ideas; applications are available at www.oicf.us. Please contact Kate Long or Hilary Canty at OICF (376-6423) or e-mail info@oicf.us with questions.
Early Childhood Education Iniative
The Orcas Island Community Foundation is delighted to assist with organizational and fiduciary support for the Early Childhood Education Initiative. Initiated by local donors, this program makes access to high quality early education a reality for all Orcas children regardless of ability to pay. Working with all four local preschools -- Children's House, Kaleidoscope, Orcas Montessori, and Salmonberry School -- the initiative is also focusing on increasing the quality and long term sustainability of the early learning programs.
This project may very well be the first in Washington State to explore the effects of universal access and the investment in higher quality instruction on preschoolers within an economically diverse, rural community. Once again, Orcas is out in the forefront thanks to caring and committed community members.
Capital Campaigns
Partner with OICF
The new deck at the Artworks Building in Olga, due to re-open this spring!
OICF is pleased to lend a hand to growing organizations. It is interesting to see how the the economic climate affects projects on our small island. Currently there are three major capital campaigns -- all in different stages. The Olga Strawberry Council is nearing the completion of their remodel after the devastating arson destroyed the building in 2013. The Orcas Public Library is embarking on an expansion plan to add more space and services to our thriving library. And Orcas Recycling Services continues in the planning phase after laying groundwork with San Juan County to rebuild of The Exchange.
Each of these organizations holds a fund with OICF where donations can be made directly to fund their efforts. To donate visit: https://oicferp.smalldognet.com/erp/donate.
Orcas Island Community Foundation (OICF) fosters philanthropy to enhance and preserve the quality of life on Orcas Island. In 2013 OICF ranked #5 in the US in gifts per capita based on a nationwide survey.
