Building a legacy of hope and opportunity

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

||| FROM LINDSAY JENNINGS for ORCAS ISLAND COMMUNITY FOUNDATION |||

During these continued dark times in our country, with threats to the safety of our communities and our democracy, islanders are proving that when we show up with light and love, we can make a positive difference and protect what matters. Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient community, with ripple effects that spread in ways we can’t yet imagine.

Last year, nearly 1,500 donors made more than 5,000 donations to and through OICF, totaling more than $10 million, and OICF granted more than $8 million to benefit community driven initiatives and programs. Dozens of community members also volunteer their time and expertise throughout the community to put these resources to work and create lasting solutions to local challenges and build a legacy of hope and opportunity.

We lost a few such cherished and dedicated community members last year, who will be remembered not only for their warmth and generosity, but also for the profound legacy they leave behind on Orcas Island.

We will remember Mary (Midge) Kraetzer, a past trustee of OICF whose positive energy and determination inspired so many. We will remember Robert (Bob) Volk who, together with his wife Carolyn, made a transformative living legacy gift to OICF by donating the building that now serves as the heart of our Foundation. We will remember Robert (Robbie) Macfarlane, who devoted much of his life to philanthropic activity and, in recent years, provided support to OICF to research and publish a report of the community response to the COVID pandemic and impacts of the nonprofit sector in the community. 

Are you thinking about how to make a lasting impact in our community and updating your charitable giving goals for the year? Whether you’re curious about starting a monthly giving plan, opening a donor advised fund, or thinking about leaving a legacy gift to the community through your will or estate plan, we are here to help. Please reach out anytime at lindsay@oicf.us or 360-376-6423.

LEAD Grants
Applications are now being accepted for the Winter 2026 Leadership, Excellence, Advancement, and Development (LEAD) Grant Program. The LEAD Grant Program, which first launched in Summer 2025, was created in an effort to support professional development for Orcas Island-based nonprofit organizations. Nonprofits are encouraged to apply for financial support for continuing education and professional development programs that will strengthen their team’s leadership skills and promote organizational excellence. 

Thank you for showing up for fellow islanders!