— from Kate Long for Orcas Island Community Foundation —
The Orcas Island Community Foundation (OICF) GiveOrcas campaign distributed $229,100 to 13 programs plus $92,720 to the Community Emergency Response Fund (CERF). This year was indeed unusual as we face unknown challenges in the months ahead. For that reason we selected the organizations that seemed most critical to the health and well-being of our community. The grants are unrestricted to be used for their best purposes.
The following programs were fully funded in this 2020 GiveOrcas grant cycle:
- Orcas Island Food Bank: $25,000
- OPAL Community Land Trust: $25,000
- Orcas Community Resource Center: $25,000
- Orcas Island School District: $25,000
- Orcas Senior Center: $25,000
- SAFE San Juans: $25,000
- Kaleidoscope Preschool: $16,000
- Orcas Center: $15,000
- Orcas Island Education Foundation: $12,500
- Orcas Montessori: $11,000
- Orcas Animal Protection Society: $10,000
- Orcas Island Children’s House: $9,600
- Salmonberry School and Learning Center: $5,000
The Community Emergency Response Fund was also listed as a donor option in the Campaign. It’s there for those that do not want to give to a specific organization but would rather entrust the team of community leaders to guide the money to our important needs. This fund continues to take donations.
One of the highlights of the Campaign is always the announcement of the Youth Philanthropy Awards. The senior class at the Orcas Island School District received $10,000 from a local donor and was given the opportunity to give back to the community. They will conduct their own process and navigate selection as a class. This year’s seniors will be announcing those in May… stay tuned to our FaceBook page for the recipients.
To learn more about the Community Foundation, visit www.oicf.us or contact 360-376-6423.
I’m so proud of this community. ❤️