Orcas Angels help in everyday ways. Their number 24/7 is 800-420-4542
Friday, Feb. 10 from 5-8 p.m. at American Legion Post Hall
Orcas Angels are among us. Maybe it’s because of their wings that they don’t take themselves too seriously, even as they help out in dead-serious situations. They quote Tracy Chapman, “I’ve seen and met angels wearing the disguise of ordinary people living ordinary lives.”
Their website www.orcasangels.org explains:
Orcas Angels is a community driven, local networking, nonprofit public charity that is dedicated to the well being and success of residents and business owners of Orcas Island.
We work with companies, both profit and nonprofit, to ensure that we have the resources to help out the people who sustain this island when they unexpectedly hit a time of need.
They maintain a 24-hour, 7 days a week helpline at 800-420-4542.
Orcas Angels founders, from left: Jill Blankenship, Lori Gates and Liz Longworth
In their brief, three-year existence, they have held ecological “fish-friendly” car washes, provided computers to college-going students, given disaster funds following a house fire — and won an award in the Chamber of Commerce Fourth of July parade!
Orcas Angel Board Officer Liz Longworth says, “Everybody involved in Orcas Angels is a ‘normal person.’ We’re not millionaires, maybe not homeowners but there are people who are worse off than we are and we are able to step in and help. That’s really important.
“There are people who work hard every day who struggle because it’s hard to live here. We saw a need that is not being met, for ongoing, extended support beyond the one-time help some programs can give. We help set people up with the Food Bank, provide firewood, help with budget counseling.”
In addition to their “ordinary,” public face, Orcas Angels has achieved federal non-profit status, setting up by-laws and electing officers: Jill Blankenship, Liz Longworth, Lori Gates and Drew Vandenburg. They have formed partnerships with Orcas businesses and agencies to refer resources to those in need. They have set up Crisis Relief , Student Family Support and Extended Support funds.
Dyan Holmes is the Orcas Angels’ Volunteer Coordinator. She can be reached through email, at 376volunteer@gmail.com .
The Angels hosted a sold-out prime rib dinner last fall, and are set to do it again this Friday evening, Feb. 10. This time they have supplies for 300 guests. Tickets cost $19 for adults, $12 for kids 8 and under, and may be purchased at Country Corner, The American Legion, and at the door.
Tax-deductible donations to Orcas Angels can be mailed to PO Box 1047, Eastsound WA 98245, or can be dropped off at donation boxes at Country Corner and other business sites on the island.
For more information, go to orcasangels.org or email Liz Longworth at liz@rockisland.com.
