On your mark, get sSubmitted by the Orcas Island Community Foundation.

On your mark, get set, GIVE! The 2019 GiveOrcas campaign opened Wednesday, May 1 and runs through May 17 at http://www.giveorcas.org/.

View the 25 proposals in this year’s catalog that support a wide variety of programs serving the full span of the community. The campaign kicks off with a game on May 2nd – Ben Franklin Day. The proposal that garners the most $100-donors on May 2 (from 12:01 am until 11:59 p.m.) will receive a bonus $1000 from OICF.

Director Hilary Canty said, “Last year, we had 374 donors who collectively contributed $234,000, funding 92% of the total requested. The total this year is $266,000 and I am hoping we can top 500 donors. The minimum donation is $10 and OICF covers all of the credit card fees (thanks to our Cornerstone donors!), so every dollar donated goes fully to the programs you support. Please help us spread the word by inviting your friends and neighbors to participate.”

OICF allocates a portion of the earnings from its community endowment to the GiveOrcas campaign, however the total requested far exceeds the funds available. This is where you can shine as a Partner in Philanthropy! To participate as a Partner, simply make a donation of any size at GiveOrcas.org. (Donations can also be made by cash, check, or stock; mail your donation — made out to OICF — to PO Box 1496, Eastsound, WA 98245, or drop by the OICF office). A donation of just $10 or more carries our island tradition of neighbors helping neighbors forward.

Join us for the 2018 Awards Celebration from 4-6 p.m. on May 22 at the Parish Hall to honor the people and programs that keep Orcas a wonderful place to call home.