Orcas Island Community Foundation earns top recognition

Out of more than 270 community foundations nation wide, the Orcas Island Community Foundation is number one for gift distribution per capita.

Out of more than 270 community foundations nation wide, the Orcas Island Community Foundation is number one for gift distribution per capita.

“This amazing recognition is certainly the result of Bob Heningson’s legacy gifts,” said Director Hilary Canty.

Additionally, OICF ranked 21st in active grantmaking. The ratings are a recognition of the flow of philanthropic dollars through OICF into the community as tallied by The Foundation Center in its annual assessment.

“We are truly one of the most generous communities in the country,” said Canty. “It is a sweet recognition as we celebrate Bob Lundeen.”

OICF will present its Report to Community on Thursday, Sept. 15, 4:30–6:30 p.m. at the Oddfellow’s Hall. The theme will be “Building Community,” and OICF will be honoring Joyce Burghardt.

Burghardt and her husband ran the Crescent Beach Resort and donated a portion of their property to the Land Bank, which expanded public beach access near Eastsound. She also started the local March of Dimes campaign and was a founding member of the Eastsound Planning Review Committee, OICF and Music Advocacy Group.

“She has quietly and consistently pitched in and helped shape the community we love,” said Canty.

OICF will present displays on current building projects from the Library, OPAL, the Exchange and the school district as well as the visioning project from Jim Jonasson and the EPRC.