It’s all connected

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

It struck me how interconnected we are this week, and how much progress – and joy – can come from these connections. 

The many nonprofits on Orcas exist because a few neighbors got together at some point to find solutions to problems and create opportunities to enrich our lives and our community. Some are fledgling, just starting out, others have grown into thriving, sustainable organizations, and many are somewhere in between – navigating changes, transitions, and challenges. 

I visited with leaders and toured the buildings of two organizations, the Orcas Animal Protection Society and Orcas Center this week. Although each of these organizations serves very different needs, they had similar beginnings – with the dedicated ingenuity of just a few volunteers. Then they each grew, constructing buildings, expanding programs, and evolving with the needs and interests of the community. Each organization collaborates with other organizations and has dozens of dedicated volunteers to support their missions. 

The time and resources we dedicate come back to us multiplied – world-class performing arts and access to pet adoption and affordable vet care right here on our island are just two examples. Two of the most enjoyable moments of my week were picking up my daughter from an after-school art class held at the Orcas Center – she did NOT want to leave; she was having too much fun! Later in the week, we visited the kittens at the animal shelter. Again, she did NOT want to leave. What a gift.

Twenty (20!) community members attended the Introduction to Board Service workshop OICF hosted on Wednesday. They will serve many different causes – and all will experience similar challenges, and need similar resources and tools to support growth and success in their organizations.  

Last Thursday, I spent the day at a regional convening for Community Foundations, focused on Economic Mobility. In one of the most compelling sessions, we explored Urban Institute’s Upward Mobility Framework, which identifies interrelated conditions within a community that have the power to propel people and families out of poverty and narrow racial inequities. Rewarding work, high-quality education, opportunity-rich communities, a healthy environment and access to healthcare, responsive and just governance. Again, it’s all connected. I’m excited to share this framework and other learnings with the OICF Board and other nonprofits, to support us in further exploring the power of connectivity.

This weekend, we have lots of opportunities to get outside, connect with neighbors, and celebrate the bounty of our community. The new Northshore Preserve opens for public access with tours on Saturday. Harvest Festival is this Saturday at the Farmer’s Market at the Village Green. Saturday is also National Public Lands Day and the weather looks perfect to enjoy free parking at Moran or Obstruction Pass State Parks.

I hope you get out there and make more connections!

P.S. Applications for nonprofit organizations to be included in the Holiday GiveOrcas Campaign are now open! Get all the details here.