Archipelago Collective has significantly enriched the San Juan Island community through its annual Chamber Music Festival, supported by a $4,200 grant from the San Juan Island Community Foundation. This initiative not only delivered beautiful music but also integrated educational elements that resonated deeply within the local schools and families. Achieving Musical Outreach Last year’s festival… Read More »Impact Stories: Harmonizing Community and Education through Chamber Music

The San Juan Islands Agricultural Guild (Ag Guild) recently completed the first phase of their ambitious project, Sunshine Plaza at Brickworks, significantly funded by a $10,000 grant from the San Juan Island Community Foundation. This initiative has helped transform Sunshine Plaza into a dynamic community space that celebrates local culture, agriculture, and art. Project Milestones… Read More »Impact Stories: Creating a Vibrant Social Hub for San Juan Island

A Commitment to Stability in San Juan Island’s Housing Crisis The San Juan Island Community Foundation proudly supported the Joyce L. Sobel Family Resource Center (JLSFRC) with a grant of $25,000 aimed at providing emergency rental assistance to local households amid the ongoing affordable housing crisis. JLSFRC’s efforts have made a significant difference in the… Read More »Transforming Lives with Emergency Rental Assistance at Joyce L. Sobel Family Resource Center

In 2023, Mt. Baker Planned Parenthood received a crucial $4,982 grant from the San Juan Island Community Foundation, aimed at sustaining and expanding essential sexual and reproductive health services at their Friday Harbor clinic.  Grant Objectives and Results The grant enabled the clinic to continue offering comprehensive health care services amid rising demands and operational… Read More »Impact Stories: Vital Services at Mt. Baker Planned Parenthood

At the San Juan Island Community Foundation, we believe that supporting theatre extends beyond just funding performances—it also means ensuring that the spaces where these performances occur are safe and well-maintained. That’s why we are proud to have supported the San Juan Community Theatre in their critical Backstage Safety Upgrade project, a vital initiative aimed… Read More »Ensuring Safety Behind the Curtains: Supporting the San Juan Community Theatre’s Backstage Safety Upgrades

Compass Health has made strides in enhancing the well-being of youth in San Juan County through its Camp and Recreational Activities project. This initiative, funded by a grant from the San Juan Island Community Foundation, aims to support children and youth engaged in the organization’s family programs by covering costs associated with camp tuition, fees,… Read More »Compass Health Elevates Youth Engagement Through Camp and Recreational Activities

The San Juan Island Community Foundation is proud to share the positive impact of a recent project – Neighborly Nourishment Wall at Friday Harbor Food Bank. This project is supported by a grant from the San Juan Island Community Foundation and has become yet another valuable resource for island neighbors to find assistance information in… Read More »Transforming Lives: The Neighborly Nourishment Wall at Friday Harbor Food Bank

The Technology Student Association (TSA) at Friday Harbor High School has undergone a dramatic transformation, thanks to a generous $2,500 grant that has significantly enhanced its initiatives. This support has empowered students to excel in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) competitions, fostering a thriving community of young innovators.   Catalyzing Growth and Innovation   The… Read More »Impact Spotlight: $2,500 Grant for Friday Harbor High School’s TSA Program

The San Juan Island Community Foundation (SJICF) is taking significant steps to enhance our community impact. As part of our ongoing commitment to community enrichment, we have restructured our staff roles to better serve local nonprofits, donors, and community members effectively. New Executive Leadership In March, Amy Saxe-Eyler joined the foundation as the new Executive… Read More »Strengthening Our Community: Our New Leadership and Enhanced Roles

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, the SJICF Women’s Fund received $10,741.25 in membership contributions. Since 2003, the Women’s Fund has provided grants to island nonprofits for family support, education, conservation, arts, science, jobs, housing, and more.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, Spring Street International School received $3,051.89 to fund the Spring Street Commons building’s terraced landscape, which will include room for indoor/outdoor performances, more outdoor seating, and accessible pathways to the new building.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, the Orca Behavior Institute received $2,773.23 to fund a new website that will provide up-to-date information on Southern Resident and Bigg’s orcas through videos, photos, stories, and scientific findings relating to their orca encounters.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, Kwaiht received $2,482.48 to help fund its free tick testing program, promote tick awareness, and give lab support to island health professionals and veterinarians.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, The Whale Museum received $4,392.58 for their Emergency Vessel Repair Fund, which helps repair vessels for the Stranding Network & Soundwatch.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, On Sacred Ground received $3,041.27 to fund a volunteer program to engage the community in supporting the recovery of the federally endangered island marble butterfly.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, Island Haven Animal Sanctuary received $6,235.02 to fund medical services and medications for their senior animals.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, APS-FH received $8,116.60 to support their Pet Food Pantry, (Pet) Meals on Wheels, and Village programs.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, the Friday Harbor Film Festival received $2,280.10 to fund the costs of their year-round film series, including venue rental, promotion, filmmaker travel, equipment, and staffing.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, the Rainshadow Quilting Arts Guild received $3,853.44 to fund the room rental at the Mullis Center, supplies, services, and a class supporting the ongoing skill development of members.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, the WSU San Juan County Extension received $3,258.44 to fund the 2024 SJC Agricultural Summit, which connects 150+ people to share, learn, and build a better food system.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, the San Juan Islands Agricultural Guild received $5,774.83 to fund general operations that support trainings for 40+ farmers, direct food assistance with the Island Grown Food Access card for 20 low-income households, and outreach to 1,000+ islanders.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, the San Juan Public Schools Foundation received $4,275.62 to fund operational costs that help support the Foundation’s mission to energize the San Juan Island community and secure funding for public school curriculum, supplies, and programs that would not happen otherwise.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, UW’s Friday Harbor Laboratories received $2,790.62 to fund the Science Outreach Program, upgrading the microscope camera to enhance the ability to share live images with students and improve their educational unit on marine plankton.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, The Madrona Institute received $2,627.43 to fund the Coast Salish Youth Stewardship Corps, which empowers inter-tribal indigenous youth through programming such as the annual Challenge Paddle in the San Juan Islands, a self-sustained canoe journey honoring ancestral seafaring.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, the San Juan County EDC received $4,482.20 to fund the trades training program, aiming to provide classes in high-wage, high-demand skills like carpentry, roofing, plumbing, electrical, and more, with a focus on offering a comprehensive construction course leading to the completion of a tiny home,… Read More »Economic Development Council of San Juan County $4,482.20

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, Leadership San Juan Islands received $4,057.86 to fund the launch of a Peer-to-Peer Network for NPO Leaders on San Juan Island, consisting of in-person and virtual convenings to identify capacity-building interests and inform program design.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, the San Juan Historical received $6,958.08 to fund the exterior painting of the nearly 100-year-old Fairgrounds “Pioneer’s Cabin.”

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, Compass Health received $485.28 to fund basic needs such as utilities, transportation, food, personal items, clothing or medicine for up to 50 individuals engaged in mental health care.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, the SJI Prevention Coalition received $2,085.60 to fund efforts in promoting health and wellness as countermeasures to youth substance use, including expanding messaging efforts at community events and sustaining the annual County Fair booth featuring the free VOICES4HealthyChoices t-shirt design activity.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, the Joyce L. Sobel Family Resource Center received $5,431.00 to fund The New Day Recovery Café, providing inclusive support to islanders recovering from mental health struggles, substance use, grief, and loss through free meals, educational activities, and peer-based supports delivered in a spirit of compassion… Read More »Joyce L. Sobel Family Resource Center $5,431.00

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, Peace Island Volunteers received $4,166.79 to fund their efforts in maintaining the cancer care garden at PIMC and supporting chemotherapy patients by providing resources such as cancer care kits, hats, quilts, cookbooks, iPads and earphones.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, the San Juan Islands Museum of Art received $2,084.64 to fund Family Art Days, providing children and adult family members with free, hands-on art activities in an art museum setting.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, the Mullis Community Senior Center received $6,148.61 to fund the continuation of San Juan Island’s Meals on Wheels program, ensuring nutritious home-delivered meals, friendly check-ins, and supplemental frozen meals for homebound seniors.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, Mt. Baker Planned Parenthood received $4,982.32 for the Friday Harbor Clinic to fund evidence-based sexual and reproductive health care services, technology upgrades, and accountability measures for MBPP.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, SAFE San Juans received $3,193.90 to fund increased emergency and longer-term shelter options, emergency client aid, and school-based violence prevention education.

Happy Friday! I hope you’ll take a moment to read this new feature where I’ll be sharing the latest good news and work from your community foundation – all made possible by you, our generous supporters and friends. This week, we wrapped up another season of our annual scholarship program! We’re honored to be able… Read More »Beaming With Pride: 2024 Scholarship Recipients Announced

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, the San Juan Community Theatre received $5,464.81 to fund a new lightboard.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, the San Juan Island Sailing Foundation received $2,430.25 to fund a new safety boat.

As part of the 2023 San Juan County Fair Campaign, Alchemy Art Center received $ 9,010.82 to fund upgrades to current pottery wheels and new wheels to make pottery more accessible to all San Juan Island residents.

  St. David’s Day School received $2,700 to fund a playground remodel required for state licensing that will allow the school to add an all-day preschool option.

The San Juan Island School District received $2,500 to assist the FHHS Chapter (12 students) of the Technology Student Association in attending and competing at the state-level STEM competition in SeaTac, WA.  

San Juan Community Theatre received $5,000 to fund critical backstage safety upgrades that will help maintain structural integrity and greatly reduce the risk of falling items.

Compass Health received $2,500 to provide financial assistance for tuition/enrollment fees and transportation to camp and recreational activities for San Juan Island youth who are engaged in their behavioral health therapy programs.

Alchemy Art Center received $12,800 for its Artists in Community program, which brings 10-12 artists-in-residence and interns from all over the country to share diverse skills and perspectives with the island community in collaboration with Island Rec and the Family Resource Center.

Wolf Hollow received $5,000 for their Harbor Seal Pup Program, which will purchase pup formula, large quantities of fish, medication and a water filtration system.

The SJI Library received $2,000 for their Youth Book Groups.  The grant will provide participants with copies of the selected titles for the Middle School and Upper Elementary book groups.

San Juan Islands Conservation District received $2,500 in support of their “Enhancing Zero Emission Forestry” project for the purchase of electric chainsaws, which will increase the effectiveness of forest restoration and fire prevention activities while reducing emissions.

FANS received $5,000 for their swim program expansion, which will allow them to expand the number of students in beginner swim lessons by an additional 55 youth.

The SJI Agricultural Guild received $10,000 in support of the construction of the new Sunshine Plaza at Brickworks including a performance stage.

Animal Haven Island Sanctuary received $2000 for its Horse Powered Reading Pilot Program which assists children experiencing reading difficulties in learning to read through interaction with horses.

Archipelago Collective received $4200 for its 2023 Chamber Music Festival which offers concerts and outreach into the public schools.

Animal Protection Society of Friday Harbor received $6000 to help fund its Community Pet Support Services which provides a pet food bank for lower income island pet owners.

Wolf Hollow received $5000 to fund the foundation of a tiny house for use by seasonal employees.

SJI Conservation District received $3258 for its Islands Conservation Corps with upgraded field-based technology equipment.

PADS for Parkinsons received $5300 to fund the submittal of the research findings of PADS for scientific publication following seven years of research on Parkingson’s Alert dogs.

Compass Health received $3650 for Youth Mental Health First Aid Training designed to give community members the skills to help youth experiencing mental health difficulties.

Alchemy Art Center received $10,000 for its Artists in Community program which brings 12 artists in residence and interns from all over the country to share diverse skills and Perspectives with the island community in collaboration with Island Rec and the Family Resource Center.

SJI Library received $2217 to purchase equipment for its Hybrid Meeting Technology Upgrade for use in the Community Meeting Room.

The Mullis Community Senior Center received $10,000 for itd SJI Caregiving Connections Project including the development and maintenance of a website to assist island residents in search of home health care providers.

The Joyce L Sobel Family Resource Center received $4708 for its “Young Adult Association of San Juan” (YAAS!) for disability education community training Program to better equip island service providers for working with clients with disabilities.

San Juan Island Library received $2500 in funding for their Youth Book Groups.

San Juan Community Theatre received $5000 for installation of Outdoor Safety Lighting for the theatre’s actor’s entrance.

KWIAHT received $2000 to help fund its SJI Tick Distribution, Vectors and Pathogens Research.

Island Museum of Art received $3000 to provide supplies for its Live Family Art Days and Take Home Art Packs.

Friday Harbor Athletic Association received $11,124 in support of its Youth Football and Cheer program.

Alchemy Art Center received $8756 for its Artists in Community program which works to bring diverse perspectives to island residents.

San Juan Island Community Foundation Board Chair Emeritus Charles Anderson is the 2022 recipient of the national Distinguished Service Award for his many decades of community and philanthropic work to improve the quality of life on San Juan Island.

When 30 nonprofit organizations on San Juan Island asked for the community’s help last month, islanders responded in a big way. Nearly 500 people came together to donate over $180,000 in just four days in support of critical local projects as part of the San Juan Island Community Foundation’s 2022 County Fair Giving Campaign.

For the first time in three years, San Juan Islanders will get together in person next week for four days of community celebration, education, and entertainment at the San Juan County Fair. To help translate that community spirit into action in the weeks and months that follow, the San Juan Island Community Foundation is preparing… Read More »County Fair Giving Campaign brings islanders together in support of 30 community projects

It was a busy spring of grant making at the San Juan Island Community Foundation. In response to the devastating April 7 fire in downtown Friday Harbor, the Community Foundation and its donors awarded an emergency grant to the Joyce L. Sobel Family Resource Center. These funds provided temporary rental and mortgage assistance for business… Read More »SJICF awards $57,000 in grants to seven nonprofits

The San Juan Island Community Foundation is pleased to announce that Philip Johnson has joined the Board of Directors. Phil first discovered San Juan Island over 20 years ago and soon became a resident along with his spouse, Peg Gerlock. During his 40-year career as a market research professional, he was an owner and the… Read More »Philip Johnson joins Board of Directors

Thanks to the sustained generosity of island donors, the San Juan Island Community Foundation has awarded 38 students more than $169,000 in scholarships for the 2022-2023 school year. The recipients include 15 graduating high school seniors – 11 from Friday Harbor High School and four from Spring Street International School – along with 23 students… Read More »SJICF awards scholarships to 38 island students

The San Juan County Health & Community Services in partnership with Medical Teams International, received a grant for $8,600 to support the mobile dental van program on San Juan Island.  

The SJI Library received $900 to support another year of a successful program to promote healthy aging for seniors. 

The SJI Library received $1,720 to offer 3 story walk programs in partnership with Island Rec and the Land Bank.

The SJ Islands Conservation District received $2,440 to help expand their capacity to address San Juan Island’s (and the archipelago’s) forest health and fire risk concerns without producing carbon emissions. 

KWIAHT received $1,726 to acquire acoustic equipment to record upland wildlife at Lime Kiln State Park. This is a partnership program with local secondary school students. 

The San Juan Island Community Foundation is pleased to announce that Dr. John Moalli, Michael Soltman and Duncan Wilson have joined the Board of Directors.

The Animal Protection Society of Friday Harbor was awarded a grant in the amount of $7,000 for the exercise yard safety & hygiene project.

Compass Health was awarded a grant in the amount of $3,300 for youth mental health first aid training.

The Whale Museum was awarded a grant in the amount of $6,000 for scientific research, diving and education program.

Wolf Hollow was awarded a grant in the amount of $2,500 for website redesign.

The San Juan Island Community Foundation is thrilled to announce an incredible $118,720 was donated during our annual County Fair Matching Grant campaign. 643 donations were made by generous community donors during the “virtual” fair days through SJICF’s online giving catalog.

Alchemy Art Center was awarded a grant in the amount of $5,500 for the Community Art Access program.

The San Juan Islands Museum of Art was awarded a grant in the amount of $1,150 for Family Art Days.

The San Juan Island Library was awarded a grant in the amount of $1,000 for the English Language Learning program.

The San Juan Historical Society was awarded a grant in the amount of $1,000 for a large format digital scanner.

Salish Sea Sciences was awarded a grant in the amount of $3,000 for summer program tuition assistance.

Kwiaht was awarded a grant in the amount of $1,400 for the Investigating Tick Ecology project.

The San Juan County Economic Development Council was awarded a grant in the amount of $1,952 for the Woodworking Basics course.

The San Juan County Economic Development Council was awarded a grant in the amount of $1,916 for the Youth Trades program.

The San Juan Community Theatre was awarded a grant in the amount of $5,000 for the Summer Performance Series.

The San Juan Island Library was awarded a grant in the amount of $3,042.54 for their Tech To Go pilot program.

The San Juan Islands Conservation District was awarded a grant in the amount of $2,000 for Islands Conservation Corps branding.

The Joyce L. Sobel Family Resource Center was awarded a grant in the amount of $17,251 from the SJICF Emergency Response Fund for the COVID Learning Pod.

The San Juan Islands Conservation District was awarded a grant in the amount of $4,594.41 for Conservation Corps stake-out gear.

The Friday Harbor High School PTA was awarded a grant in the amount of $4,500 for Grad Night 2021.

The Animal Protection Society of Friday Harbor was awarded a grant in the amount of $5,000 for the animal transport program.

The Animal Protection Society of Friday Harbor was awarded a grant in the amount of $3,000 to make improvements for dog safety.

Alchemy Art Center was awarded a grant in the amount of $2,500 for a community mosaic project at the SJI Sculpture Park.

The following grants have been made from the SJICF Emergency Response Fund: 4/1/2020 – $22,000 to the SJI Family Resource Center for Emergency Funds 4/15/20 – $3,800 to the SJ Island Ag Guild for the Food Hub 4/16/20 – $20,000 to the SJI Family Resource Center for Emergency Funds 4/23/20 – $2,000  to the SJI… Read More »Grants Made From the SJICF Emergency Response Fund: Update

SAFE San Juans was awarded a grant in the amount of $4,775 for therapeutic safe spaces.

The San Juan Community Theatre was awarded a grant in the amount of $5,000 for equipment upgrades. 

The San Juan Public Schools Foundation was awarded a grant in the amount of $2,029 for a donor database.

The San Juan Islands Museum of Art was awarded a grant in the amount of $2,200 for community awareness & marketing. 

The San Juan Islands Museum of Art was awarded a grant in the amount of $1,000 for take-home family art days packs. 

Leadership San Juan Islands was awarded a grant in the amount of $1,200 for tuition assistance. 

The San Juan Islands Conservation District was awarded a grant in the amount of $3,000 for Youth Conservation Corps safety & equipment.

The San Juan Island Sailing Foundation was awarded a grant in the amount of $1,400 for new boats. 

Each year, the San Juan Island Community Foundation hosts an exciting matching grant program in their booth at the San Juan County Fair. This tradition gives local nonprofits heightened visibility in the community and a chance to raise funds for current projects. More than $65k was awarded to 9 nonprofits following the 2019 county fair!

Alchemy Art Center was awarded a grant in the amount of $2,000 for the Community Art Assistance Fund.

The San Juan Island Library was awarded a grant in the amount of $4,166 for the English Language Learning & Children’s Enrichment Program.

The San Juan Island Library was awarded a grant in the amount of $3,910 for the WiFi Hotspots Lending Program.

The San Juan Island Library was awarded a grant in the amount of $1,688 for the Middle School Book Club.

The San Juan County Economic Development Council was awarded a grant in the amount of $3,330 for a Plumbing Basics class & apprenticeship match.

The San Juan County Economic Development Council was awarded a grant in the amount of $1,800 to offer a Business Management & Leadership Course.

The San Juan Island Grange #966 was awarded a grant in the amount of $2,080 for a new membership software database.

The San Juan Islands Agricultural Guild was awarded a grant in the amount of $2,500 to start up the San Juan Islands Food Hub.

The San Juan Islands Shuttle System was awarded a grant in the amount of $4,103 for rebranding, web site upgrade, and a direct mail campaign.

SAFE San Juans was awarded a grant in the amount of $4,798 for technology upgrades in order to meet security and privacy standards.

The Animal Protection Society of Friday Harbor received a grant in the amount of $2,580 to fund the PetPoint Data Management System.

Although 2020 has been an incredibly challenging school year, the San Juan Island Community Foundation carried on its tradition of awarding annual scholarships to local students. Over the last few months, SJICF has awarded just under $150k in college scholarships and awards to 39 local students for the 2020-2021 school year. 9 graduating seniors from… Read More »SJICF Awards Nearly $150k in Scholarships, Academic Awards

The school year has officially ended and there is a familiar – yet uncharted – switch to a COVID-19 style summer on San Juan Island.

In June, SJICF launched an ad campaign designed to reach members of our island communities who may not be comfortable asking for help.

Islanders uniting to assist fellow islanders have provided a bright spot during the COVID epidemic. Immediately following the outbreak of the disease in Washington state, the San Juan Island Community Foundation created an emergency response fund has generated $181,445 in less than eight weeks.

The following grants have been made from the SJICF Emergency Response Fund: 4/1/2020 – $20,000 to the SJI Family Resource Center for Emergency Funds 4/15/20 – $3,800 to the SJ Island Ag Guild for the Food Hub 4/16/20 – $20,000 to the SJI Family Resource Center for Emergency Funds 4/23/20 – $2,000  to the SJI… Read More »Grants Made from the SJICF Emergency Response Fund

The SJI Community Foundation continues to work closely with nonprofits and other county services to ensure a coordinated response to the COVID-19 crisis. To create a publicly accessible resource for both residents and nonprofit services, SJICF has launched the San Juan Island Community Response Hub website.

In the last three weeks, SJICF has raised $145k for the newly established SJICF Community Emergency Response Fund. The fund was created to meet the increasing community needs as a result of COVID-19 response.

At an emergency board meeting last week, the San Juan Island Community Foundation solidified its commitment to providing additional emergency funding and nonprofit support for the duration of COVID-19 response.

The San Juan Island Community Foundation has established the SJICF Emergency Response Fund to meet critical needs in the San Juan Island community resulting from an emergency or crisis affecting San Juan Islanders.

SJICF is pleased to be partnering with SJI Grange #966 to provide a pass-through grant for funds donated to upgrade the Grange commercial kitchen!

SJI Family Resource Center received $1,100 to fund the annual Kindergarten Kickoff event to help incoming kindergarten students become familiar with their school environment.

San Juan Public Schools Foundation received $3,060 for a website upgrade.

San Juan Islands Museum of Art received $2,500 for program education, enrichment and community awareness.

Leadership San Juan Islands received $1,200 for adult leadership training tuition assistance.

Salish Sea Sciences received $10,000 for a new high school scientific diving certification program.

SJC Economic Development Council received $3,275 for the SJI Electrical Basics trades training class offering.

SJC Prevention Coalition received $1,000 to fund outreach materials at their county fair booth.

SJI Compass Health received 2 grants – $1,000 to purchase specialized child therapy equipment and $2,500 to send 10 child clients to Camp Orkila.

SJI Family Resource Center received 2 grants – $1,420 to fund the existing Island Neighbors program and $1,653 to fund a new college mentoring program.

San Juan Community Theatre received $5,000 for safety upgrades.

SJC Arts Council received $1,250 for Summer Arts Festival marketing.

Wolf Hollow Wildlife Rehabilitation Center received 2 grants – $2,500 to replace the roof on their intern housing unit and $700 to replace an antiquated phone system.

Archipelago Collective received $2,633 to cover costs of the 2019 Chamber Music Festival.

SJI Prevention Coalition received $2,000 to support their National Youth Leadership Initiative training.

Friday Harbor Film Festival received $2,250 to help make equipment upgrades for digital manipulation of curated films.

Alchemy Art Center received $1,500 to offer cost assistance for their Youth Education Program.

SJC Arts Council received $2,500 to help with costs of re-branding and marketing materials.

The SJC Economic Development Council received funding for one-quarter of the expenses for their upcoming Plumbing Basics course offered on San Juan Island in March 2019.

Salish Sea Sciences received funding to cover costs of marketing for their new summer and semester school program.

The SJI Library received funding to offer WiFi Hotspots to the public to check out. Internet access can be difficult for SJI residents for a number of reasons. Providing hotspots through the lending library makes sense due to the increasingly dependence on internet access for work, education and recreation for people of all ages.

The SJI Library received funding to provide for a children’s specialist to be present during two evenings per week while volunteer tutors work with adult English language students so that parents can concentrate on English and their children can enjoy and benefit from their time in the library. The program runs from March to December… Read More »San Juan Island Library, English Language Learning Children’s Enrichment Program, $3,646

Maude Cumming has been working around the local public school system for the past 20 plus years. She has moved

Norm, Kathy and their son, Spencer, have an abiding connection to the cultures, places and residents of the

Barbara and husband, George, have owned a home on San Juan Island since 2000. They spent many summers here

Rebecca was introduced to the San Juan Islands in 2001. She splits her time among Minneapolis, Palm Desert

A forty-year resident of San Juan Island, Charles Anderson served as the Foundation’s chairman for 12 years. During

As a third-generation San Juan Islander, Steve is a very familiar face on San Juan Island. He grew up on a cattle ranch

A native of the Pacific Northwest and originally hailing from Port Angeles, Madelyn has enjoyed being a

Pamela traveled around the world on a 31’ sailboat for 10 years before settling in Friday Harbor in 1997. Highlights

A long-time donor and resident of San Juan Island, Carolyn moved from Southern California to San Juan

Having grown up in the Midwest, Philip Johnson first discovered San Juan Island in 1999 as the result of a visit to sail and kayak this unique island.

John Moalli, his wife Allison, and their daughter Gianna moved to San Juan Island in 2014, where they sought a safe

Laura is a sixth-generation islander who became a full-time resident of San Juan Island in 2009. A Graduate

Michael Soltman is recently retired from public education and many Islanders will remember him as Superintendent

Duncan Wilson is a familiar face on San Juan Island. Duncan is an attorney and has served as the Town of Friday

Eric and his wife Janet have owned a home on San Juan Island since 2006 and made it their permanent residence in

Carrie was born and raised in beautiful Leavenworth, WA, before attending Central Washington University to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Community Health Education. After graduating in 2007, she moved to San Juan Island to work at Inter Island Medical Center. Carrie transitioned to Peace Island Medical Center upon its opening in 2012, and worked

The Friday Harbor Elementary School was awarded a grant to purchase supplies for the Primary Intervention Program. The Primary Intervention Program is a one-on-one play classroom that serves Kindergarten to 3rd grade students at FHES who need to work through school adjustment issues, gain social emotional skills and/or overcome trauma.

The University of Washington Friday Harbor Labs was awarded a grant to support the Science Outreach Program. Funds will be used to purchase a collapsible imagine catcher (allows students to visualize and take photos of stained DNA images) and other equipment used for school Science Outreach programs as well as 1 school-year worth of copying/printing… Read More »K-12 Science Outreach Program – UW Friday Harbor Labs, $2,759

The Archipelago Collective was awarded a grant to fund the 2018 SJI Chamber Music Festival. They will be organizing an ensemble of nine world-class musicians and providing them the opportunity to delve into their creative process and present music to the community through concerts and school programs. Grant funding will be used to cover housing and… Read More »SJI Chamber Music Festival – Archipelago Collective, $2,000

The San Juan Island Library was awarded a grant to fund the Middle School Book Club. Designed for students in 6th-8th grades, the Middle School Book Club is held monthly during the school year. Each participant receives a paperback copy of a selected book title, then meets together one Saturday evening for a discussion and to… Read More »Middle School Book Club – SJI Library, $1,688

WA Vocational Services was awarded a grant  to fund the Middle School Dream Builders program. This program is designed to help young adults with disabilities and their parents to gain independence and transition smoothly into adulthood. Students learn to communicate and understand their own dreams and goals and how to be self-advocates who interact successfully… Read More »Middle School Dream Builders – WA Vocational Services, $4,747

The San Juan Island Family Resource Center received a grant to fund the Household Critical Needs Assistance program. Funds will be used to provide local low-income community members with one-time emergency assistance in the form of rental assistance, prescription assistance and help with ferry tickets for critical off-island travel.

The San Juan Island Community Theatre was awarded a grant for the Up Close project. The Up Close project pairs local artists with elders in the community. The artists gather stories and engage their elder-partners directly in the creation of original creative work. Funding is for the performances that will take place at the Theatre September 13-16,… Read More »Up Close Program – SJ Community Theatre, $500

The San Juan Island Community Theatre was awarded a grant for facilities improvements.  This includes HVAC and kitchen updates for the Theatre building.

Friends of Lime Kiln (FOLKS) received a grant to build and updated multimedia display for their interpretive center. This project will update educational displays with modern media and accurate, compelling content to support the most visited destination on San Juan Island.

Mt. Baker Planned Parenthood received a grant to fund advertising and to purchase equipment for the Friday Harbor Center. This funding would support a desktop computer station, portable heater for the client reception area, compact refrigerator, office chairs and monthly online and print ads in the Journal to more effectively reach and serve local clients.

Wolf Hollow was awarded a grant to help fund an upgrade to its diagnostic imaging system. This upgrade to a digital system will vastly improve the quality of images for quickly diagnosing illness and injury to wildlife while eliminating harmful chemicals, which pose a risk to staff and the environment.

The Animal Protection Society of Friday Harbor has been awarded a grant to upgrade technology equipment in their new building. New desktop computers will result in increased efficiency for animal care and donor database tools. An interior building security system will also be added for monitoring of secure areas as well as animal care areas… Read More »Technology Grant – Animal Protection Society of FH, $4,000

The San Juan Islands Agricultural Guild has been awarded a grant to facilitate an islands-wide survey of ag producers willing to commit to an online ordering system that will supply schools, restaurants and grocers by the end of 2018. The Agricultural Guild is collaborating with project partners to develop linkages between farmers, businesses and schools… Read More »Ag Producer Engagement for SJC Food Hub – SJI Ag Guild, $3,000

The San Juan Islands Museum of Art has been awarded a grant to renovate their database, security system and computer programs.  The hardware, software and tech support requested will increase efficiency throughout the organization.

The San Juan Island EMT Association has been awarded a grant to fund the Every 15 Minutes program, a nationally recognized experiential anti-drinking/drugging/texting driving event, that will educate the community on the hazards of driving under the influence/driving while distracted. This request will fund the filming (videography) of the event, a lasting educational tool.

The San Juan Island Family Resource Center was awarded a grant to help fund expenses incurred at the annual Kindergarten Kickoff event for families with children who are about to enter Kindergarten. The event provides dinner, an informational presentation for parents and enrichment activities for children, all with the goal of familiarizing families with Friday… Read More »Kindergarten Kickoff Event – SJI Family Resource Center, $1,000

The San Juan Island Family Resource Center was awarded a grant to help support parents who have children with special needs. This community has a rapidly growing population of children with special needs. Due to our small community size, limited resources and geographic isolation, parents of children with special needs encounter barriers to accessing appropriate services… Read More »Parent Support Program – SJI Family Resource Center, $870

The San Juan Island Family Resource Center was awarded a grant to offer a 26-week evening Spanish class for human services professionals and volunteers working on San Juan Island. The two-hour weekly evening class will provide instruction in beginning conversational Spanish.

The San Juan Island Library was awarded a grant to support English classes at the library for immigrants and non-native speakers of English. Adult learners will have the opportunity to study and practice English to help these adults integrate into community life. The program includes a partnership with the Family Resource Center, providing a children’s… Read More »English Language Learning – SJI Library, $5,354

Island Stage Left was awarded a grant to purchase a trailer and update lighting and audio equipment to make moves from venue to venue more efficient and less likely to damage costumes, props and technical equipment.

The Family Umbrella Group was awarded a grant to help provide preschool scholarships for individuals on their waiting list. Priority will be given to 4-year-olds who will be entering Kindergarten next year.

Friday Harbor Elementary School was awarded a grant to provide summer school at FHES in 2017, providing thirty 1st-4th grade students with twelve extra days of instruction.

The Washington Vocational Services has been awarded a grant to provide a semester long curriculum to help 7th & 8th grade students with disabilities, and their parents, gain independence and transition smoothly into adulthood. Funding will provide a variety of tools from goal setting and self-management to building self-esteem, teamwork, communication, problem solving and more.

The Friday Harbor Labs were awarded a grant to provide a laptop, three micropipettes, electrophoresis power supply and a year’s worth of Xeroxing for the K-12 Science Outreach Program. Over 745 local students and 25 teachers from the SJI School District and Spring Street International School benefit from this program each year. The Friday Harbor… Read More »K-12 Science Outreach Program – UW Friday Harbor Labs, $3,150

The San Juan Island EMT Association was awarded a grant to provide printing and mailing costs for a bulk mailing to educate the community of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.

The Friday Harbor Elementary School PTO pie booth structure was built in the 1970s as a means for the organization to fund-raise in the summer during the County Fair. The booth must be rebuilt as a mobile structure that can be driven on to the fairgrounds for the County Fair each year. A grant was… Read More »Pie Booth Remodel – Friday Harbor Elementary School PTO, $1,500

Wolf Hollow was awarded a grant to resume its rehabilitation program for small marine mammals in 2017. The funds will be used to purchase fish, vitamins, specialized formula and medical supplies to treat 5 injured and orphaned harbor seal pups. The majority of injured and orphaned animals, such as harbor seal pups, come to Wolf… Read More »Harbor Seal Pup Rehabilitation – Wolf Hollow, $4,010

PADs stands for Parkinson’s Alert Dogs. PADs for Parkinson’s was awarded a grant for financial support for Phase II of the project, which is to pay for training materials, brochure prep and printing and rent expenses. The project depends on having a contained physical location in which to work the dogs and store training samples… Read More »Training for Canine Detection of Parkinson’s Disease – PADs, $4,500

For the last 16 years, Paideia has had 30 families in need of financial aid. For 10 years, they have utilized a third-party evaluator (Family Financial Needs Assessment) and Independent School Management Financial Aid for School Tuition (ISMFAST) to provide the school with financial aid recommendations. Paideia has been providing ISMFAST’s scholarship recommendation, up to… Read More »Scholarship Funds – Paideia Classical School, $4,000

Up Close is an art project that pairs local artists with elders on San Juan Island. Composers, playwrights, choreographers, and poets will meet weekly with elder partners. The artists gather stories and engage their elder-partners directly in the creation of original creative work. The Community Theatre was awarded a grant for the process itself and… Read More »Up Close – San Juan Community Theatre, $1,500

Hospice of San Juan regularly provides caregiver training to its volunteers, since one of its primary services is caregiver respite. While providing caregiver respite, they have witnessed non-licensed, or informal, caregivers in homes who need such training to protect themselves and their clients from injury. Additionally, they receive frequent requests from families for paid caregivers,… Read More »Caregiver & Volunteer Training – Hospice of San Juan, $1,945

A grant was awarded to the San Juan Island Agricultural Guild to upgrade audio/visual equipment so the facility can accommodate and support a wider range of users.

Unpaid caregivers are individuals who care for a family member or friend, often 24/7, due to a health condition, disability or age-related need. The Mullis Senior Center was awarded a grant to continue to offer a facilitated, support and resource group for unpaid caregivers. This program has previously been funded by the Foundation and, with… Read More »Unpaid Caregiver Support Group – Mullis Senior Center, $6,000

The San Juan Island School District was awarded a grant to support the Deferred Action of Childhood Arrival (DACA) & Deferred Action of Parents of Americans (DAPA) Update. The district hosted a program at the San Juan Community Theatre to inform community members about the Supreme Court’s decision regarding President Obama’s executive orders protecting non-criminal… Read More »DACA/DAPA Update – San Juan Island School District, $2,000

The WA Vocational Services was awarded a grant to support Dream Builders 7th & 8th Grade. This program, originally designed to help young adults with disabilities, and their parents, gain independence and transition smoothly into adulthood; has been expanded to younger teenagers to help them transition smoothly into high school. Students learn how to communicate… Read More »Dream Builders – WA Vocational Services, $9,000

Spring Street International School was awarded a grant to support the professional production of marketing materials for their capital campaign to add a new studio building to the campus.

The Friday Harbor Film Festival was awarded a grant for projection equipment that provides for a quality film viewing experience. Funding this project benefits over 5,000 film showings at the Friday Harbor Film Festival each November.

The Islands Oil Spill Association was awarded a grant to assist with the costs of replacing a 29-year-old motor for one of the primary spill response vessels, which is stationed at the Port of Friday Harbor. This vessel is designated to be one of the two primary boats prepared to meet the state’s required 2 & 3 hour response time-frame… Read More »Green Heron Vessel Motor – Islands Oil Spill Association, $5,000

The University of Washington Foundation was awarded a grant in partnership with the Friday Harbor Labs for the following three items: 30 loupes for a 1st grade Scientific Inquiry/Investigation Loupe Project called EYE SPY-Magnify Your World 5Xs, 18 youth and 3 adult lifejackets for a 3rd grade Diver for a Day Project and 5th grade… Read More »FH Labs Science Outreach Program – UW Foundation, $1,807

The San Juan Island Prevention Coalition was awarded a grant to provide a four day motivational interviewing training for providers of the newly launched SafeCare family support and educational program as well as to other professionals working in the physical and behavioral health fields. 20-30 individuals will receive this training between July and October 2016.

The San Juan Preservation Trust was awarded a grant, in partnership with Spring Street International School, for print production of 1,000 books featuring SSIS student drawings of birds found in the San Juan Islands. Sale proceeds will help support the Mount Grant fundraising campaign.

The San Juan Island Family Resource Center was awarded a grant for a new project called Island Neighbors. Its purpose is to provide much needed support to older and physically challenged adult neighbors to keep them active and well within their own homes and community. This program will provide an array of helpful services to be delivered by… Read More »Island Neighbors – SJI Family Resource Center, $5,000

The San Juan Island Family Resource Center was awarded a grant to provide one-time emergency rental assistance to local households at risk of eviction due to non-payment of rent. The funds will be used specifically to help families and/or individuals who live at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.

The San Juan Island Library was awarded a grant to purchase a laptop, digital projector, portable screen, speaker, camera, cables, adaptors, and jacks that will be available to loan to resident Library card holders.

The San Juan Nature Institute was awarded a grant to provide funding for science activities for K-1st graders during Island Rec’s Summer Program, Camp Eagle Rock. Science activities are provided to two groups, one day a week for ten weeks. Areas of study include salmon, marine invertebrates, solar power, island watersheds, soils, botany, and PEAK (Promoting Environmental… Read More »Science at Camp Eagle Rock – SJ Nature Institute, $1,500

Spring Street International School was awarded a grant to fund startup costs for a Summer Marine Science Program.  This program will be an immersive 8-week long summer program devoted to marine sciences and maritime ecology pursued in conjunction with scientists and educators affiliated with the University of Washington’s Friday Harbor Labs, SeaDoc Society, National Parks… Read More »Summer Marine Science Program – SSIS, $17,000

The EMT Association was awarded a grant which will be used for Wilderness Training. This training provides local EMT with supplemental skills to handle medical situations in more remote island areas. This will positively affect outcomes for community members in need of EMS services.

The Whale Museum has been awarded a grant to produce narrated museum tours in multiple languages.  This project will provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the museum exhibits and inspire stewardship actions to help restore and protect the Salish Sea.

The San Juan Nature Institute was awarded a grant to present stewardship messaging that focuses on the uniqueness and vulnerability of the island habitats.  This campaign will increase the chances that visitors will consider changing behaviors that have negative ecological impacts and consequences.  Messaging will be displayed on the WA State Ferries.

Leadership San Juan Islands was awarded a grant to broadcast the TEDx San Juan Island speaker presentation to a broader community audience through an internet simulcast. The videographer and live streaming allowed greater access to the speaker presentations. An additional 150 people who might not have otherwise have had an opportunity to attend, watched the… Read More »Leadership San Juan Islands Expanded Access to TedX

The Mullis Senior Center was awarded a grant which will be used to bridge funding sources for the Unpaid Caregiver Support program which enables the continued support for unpaid caregivers. This program provides support with a group facilitator, education materials and on-site respite caregivers for those attending the support group.

San Juan Island Family Resources has been awarded a $1,000 grant to provide ferry tickets to low-income individuals and families for one time or short-term critical ferry transportation needs.

San Juan Nature Institute was awarded a grant of $4,800 for their Introduction to Watersheds program. This SJNI program will develop a strong sense of responsibility and stewardship for kids in Grades 1-6 through thematic lessons about watersheds, soil and water conservation. This project is a part of the San Juan Island school program “Partners… Read More »Intro to Watersheds, San Juan Nature Institute

The Madrona Institute has received funding to provide Wilderness First Aid training offered through the local San Juan Island EMS to the SJI Conservation Corps high school crew and its team leaders. Local youth crews work on local lands for two months over the summer learning environmental stewardship, leadership and job skills. Certification in WFA… Read More »Wilderness First Aid Training for SJI Conservation Corps

Due to changes by the NW Interscholastic Sailing Association, the San Juan Island Sailing Foundation is seeking to replace their current sailing fleet of Vanguard 15s with Flying Juniors (FJs) dinghies. These new boats will provide the San Juan Island high school sailing team with the opportunity to competitively practice their sailing skills. In addition,… Read More »Replacement Boat for the FHHS Sailing Team

The Peace Island Medical Center Cancer Care Center has received funding to launch a support group for cancer patients and survivors on San Juan Island. The “Our Common Bond” program addresses the needs of cancer patients and survivors, giving them the opportunity to gather in a supportive and caring environment over shared meals. It is… Read More »Our Common Bond – PIMC Cancer Care Support Group

Launched in 2013, the Friday Harbor Film Festival has presented both island residents and tourists with documentary films that entertain, enlighten, and inspire. This year, the Friday Harbor Film Festival will be establishing the FHFF Film Society, a membership-based program to enable self-sustainability of the annual festival and its programs into the future. This grant… Read More »Friday Harbor Film Festival Launches Film Society

The San Juan Island Family Resource Center has received funding for a pilot project that will provide household cleaning and personal hygiene supplies for 50 vetted low-income families with young children. This new program will also serve as an information gateway to assess the family needs for other services such as free/low cost health insurance,… Read More »Friday Harbor Household Essentials Program

WA Vocational Services has been providing workforce development services in Washington State since 1976. Dream Builders will offer transition services and career education for Friday Harbor Middle School special needs students and their parents. Students will learn to communicate and understand their own needs and goals, as well as those of others. Parents will also… Read More »Dream Builders – A Program for Special Needs Students

This grant supports a San Juan Island Family Resource Center program to provide emergency funding for prescription medications for uninsured and low-income residents. At the time of assistance, clients are also helped to enroll in low-cost or discount prescription plan for their needed medication, when available.

This program, administered by the SJI Family Resource Center, provides low-income island residents with a one-time emergency rental assistance in situations of homelessness or potential eviction. This program receives annual funding from the SJC Housing Bank. In 2015, funds available from the Housing Bank will be diminished by $4,000. This grant will help alleviate that… Read More »Emergency Rental Assistance Support

The UW Friday Harbor Labs has developed a set of hands-on projects specifically designed to complement and enhance the current science, technology, and math curriculum at local schools. This grant provides funding for the support of two marine science education programs for high school students, and one program for fourth graders.

The San Juan Island EMT Association has received funding for a program to conduct a real-life enactment of a DUI (driving under the influence) motor vehicle accident and involve all high school juniors and seniors. This exercise, patterned after the nationally recognized “Every 15 Minutes” program, challenges the students to think about drinking, driving, personal… Read More »Every 15 Minutes – A Nationally Recognized Program

Hospice of San Juan has received funding for monthly education programs about self-care and the care of people with life-limiting illness. The yearlong training is open to hospice volunteers and the at-large community. Hospice leaders believe that ongoing training and education has a positive impact on end-of-life experience and use of the health care system… Read More »Hospice of SJ Increases Training Opportunities

The San Juan Island Library provides English Language Learning to help students learn to speak, read, and write English as well as meet each student’s individual goals – such as U.S. citizenship, a driver’s license, or a better job. During classes, the Library provides children’s enrichment programs to help children with reading and homework so… Read More »Adult English Language Learning & Children’s Enrichment Program

The west side of San Juan Island presents some unique challenges for responding to oil spills. Islands Oil Spill Association will hold a drill to specifically address crucial response training and site-specific concerns such as access points, open water booming, and rock bolt attachments.

Hazardous Waste Operations & Emergency Response (Hazwoper) training is mandatory for oil spill responders and our island is potentially at risk for such spills. This training provides Islands Oil Spill Association volunteer responders and staff with the required skills to respond to and address the dangers from an oil spill.

Several of the supply trailers used by the Islands Oil Spill Association to store critical oil spill response gear have been in service for over 20 years and a new trailer is desperately needed for the Roche Harbor site. Supply trailers keep critical equipment ‘at the ready’ and reduce valuable response time to get oil spills contained and… Read More »A New Supply Trailer

Islands Oil Spill Association’s trailer at Roche Harbor stores 1100′ of boom for quick deployment during an oil spill. It has come time to perform repairs on this 20 year old trailer in order to keep the gear in working condition.

The Whale Museum’s orca adoptions and memberships have increased significantly since the launch of their new website last year and their membership database is stretched to manage this growth. An additional license will allow for greater efficiency and capacity for the organization.

Finishing touches – flatware, dishes, glasses, tables, chairs – for Brickworks are needed to enable the Ag Guild to rent  the building and provide a sustainable source of income.

Professional training for Sheriff deputies and Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault advocates. The training will cover victim assistance, how to respond to children at the scene, and building a community coordinated response to domestic violence.

Support for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services to create, provide and distribute public awareness brochures and safety and educational posters and other public relations materials for the San Juan County community.

Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services of the San Juan Islands will staff a booth at the County Fair to provide a variety of materials that distribute educational and contact information to as many homes as possible. These materials will raise awareness about domestic violence as well as publicize the crisis response number.

Island residents that must seek social and healthcare services on the mainland are often those who can least afford it. The Ferry Discount Program provides tickets that enable low-income individuals to travel to the mainland for medical appointments, unemployment, and other social services.

Critical facility repairs include installation of a sump pump, bringing insulation up to code, and converting to an energy efficient heating system. Parents and their children will be able to use the playroom safely and comfortably, and the Family Resource Center will save hundreds of dollars on utility bills which can be put toward programming… Read More »Family Resource Center Facility Weatherization & Repairs

The Elementary School Safety Project will improve classroom safety for children, teachers and staff.  Upgrades will help ensure a safer school for all.

The festival aims to entertain, inspire, and enlighten island residents by screening quality documentary films from accomplished film makers and local students that relate to the Pacific Rim. Advertising and marketing materials will help increase attendees for the festival so the project can be self sustaining into the future.

Music plays an important role in a well-rounded education.  Many of the instruments the students rely on are in need of repair, other instruments need to be replaced.  Music education will be further expanded with access to digital recording studio equipment – very exciting!

Student work crews perform maintenance and stewardship tasks on public lands, some of which are remote and without cell-phone communication. First aid supplies, communications & monitoring equipment and proper tools are needed to ensure a safe and productive learning experience.

The Whale Museum’s exhibits are housed on two floors of a historic building, with a long steep staircase that prevents elderly and mobility-impaired guests from enjoying the majority of the museum. The stair lift will allow all members of each tour group to experience the entire museum.

In order to better serve island high school students and nonprofit organizations, San Juan Island Service Scholarship (formerly Dollars For Scholars) is transitioning away from their parent organization. The new website and brand will allow the organization to operate more efficiently and facilitate communication between students, schools, and local charitable organizations.

High quality preschool materials are long-lasting and provide unique experiences for children that are different from their toys at home.  St. David’s Day School utilizes these materials to keep students engaged and facilitate participation, communication, and problem solving ability – essential components of preschool education.

St. David’s Day School is a highly regarded preschool with excellent teachers.  Scholarships enable the school to enroll students who will benefit greatly from the program but otherwise would not be able to attend.

UW Friday Harbor Labs has developed a set of hands on projects that involve students in conservation monitoring and introduce them to biotechnology equipment and procedures.  The Invasive Mussel study program includes four biology courses in which the students work with mussel DNA to assess the spread of the non-native farmed mussel into the wild… Read More »K-12 Science Outreach Program – Invasive Mussels

The Family Resource Center provides ferry tickets to low income people for necessary trips off island for medical, unemployment, and other critical appointments.  Many of the people required to go off island for these services are those who can least afford it: those on Medicare, Disability, and the unemployed.

Wolf Hollow Wildlife Rehabilitation Center sent two staff members to the International Wildlife Rehabilitators Council (IWRC) conference to enhance their professional skills.  Their exposure to the lectures, workshops, and discussions led by veterinarians and wildlife biologists will improve Wolf Hollow’s standards of animal care and operations.

Wolf Hollow’s rescue truck is essential for everything from picking up injured and orphaned animals to returning them to their release sites to hauling food and equipment.  It is used to help rescue every kind of animal from eagles to fawns.  It carries seal pups to a sheltered bay and hawks back to their woodland… Read More »Rescue Truck Repairs and Equipment Support

Donations received at the County Fair for the following programs were matched 50% by the Foundation. Thanks to the generosity to well over 100 fairgoers, over $20,000 has been granted in support of the following featured projects:

A collaborative partnership between the Islands Museum of Art and the San Juan Island School district is ensuring the preservation of visual arts education for every school-aged child in spite of severe budget cuts. The program provides an alternative, community-based model of experiential arts instruction. Support is for art supplies and teaching artist stipends. Other… Read More »Art, K-12 Education program

With a goal to help pre-schoolers transition more successfully to kindergarten, the Family Resource Center will host a family meal and activity event to recruit more participants to their ‘Summer Transitions’ program and introduce families to the school staff and school protocols related to kindergarten entry. This program is a partnership with the library, local… Read More »Preschool to Kindergarten Transitions program

In-depth education and training is critical to prepare volunteers to support and care for those with debilitating, chronic or terminal illnesses so that they may live as fully and comfortably as possible. Continued education and training also helps to renew the compassionate spirit of the volunteers.

Textbooks and workbooks for students of English Language Learning program. These evening English language classes include volunteers who help students with workbook assignments, conversation and reading. The structure of the program supports families with children and builds relationships, confidence and hope.

For students of the Friday Harbor High School Sailing Team to participate in WIND, a 3-day, comprehensive, immersion training clinic for sailors, ages 12-18 who are interested in developing skills to compete at a high level.

Continuing in its leadership role to provide better access to healthcare, the Foundation awarded $10 million in grants to the PeaceHealth Peace Island Medical Center for the construction of the new integrated medical center that is located in Friday Harbor.  The Community Foundation is proud of its role in championing this significant accomplishment and all… Read More »Peace Island Medical Center

Students at Friday Harbor’s, Spring Street International School created and published Time Was Volume II, a composition of their childhood memories. Readings from the book were made at the Mullis Senior Center, The Village at the Harbor assisted living center and Life Care Convalescent Center by students who are also members of Rock Solid, a youth driven… Read More »Book: Time Was, Volume III

Rock Solid, a youth driven program that supports drug and alcohol-free behavior among teenagers and adults, has put together a program to learn dance and music from the seniors in our community.  A multi-generation community dance event, Dance of the Ages, celebrates, showcases and shares the dances and music from the 40’s and 50’s.  This festive and colorful… Read More »Dance of the Ages

Families & Neighbors Support Island Rec, FANS  is moving into its second year.  The organization grew from a desire to help fill the financial gap between the San Juan Island community’s park and recreation needs and what the junior tax supported organization, Island Rec can afford to address. Funds will be used to increase membership and continue to establish… Read More »Phase II Start-Up Funds for FANS

Proper tools and equipment are essential for the students of the San Juan Island Conservation Corp who, through partnership and leadership, are learning about and caring for our local natural resources and environment.  These students are learning skills that may translate to future employment, especially within the environmental community.  They are learning about the San Juan… Read More »Safety Equipment for Youth Conservation Corp

To follow-up on a successful pilot program offered in 2011, Hospice of San Juan is now able to continue to offer professionally facilitated, Grief Support and Education groups that are open to all and at no charge thanks to a partnership between Hospice of San Juan, PeaceHealth Peace Island Medical Center and the Community Foundation.… Read More »Grief Support and Education

To culminate a year of studying marine invertebrates, 3rd graders go on a field trip aboard the research vessel “Centennial”.  The “Diver for a Day” program involves sending scuba divers, with a communication system and video cameras, off the boat.  Students interact with the submerged scientists, ask questions and learn about the environment beneath our seas.… Read More »Friday Harbor Labs Science Outreach Program: “Diver for a Day” program

The ability to speak English is a fundamental prerequisite for the integration of immigrants into society. For the 2012-’13 school year two, fifteen week sessions of English Language Learning classes for adults are being offered at the library. A children’s literacy/enrichment program is offered simultaneously for children of the adult students. 22 adult students are… Read More »English Language Learning Classes

Students at Friday Harbor High School are required to give 30 hours to a meaningful community service project. Many excellent student ideas have not been completed because of expenses. The application process for students to obtain funding is stringent and has been time-tested for 10 years. It  involves written proposals, oral defenses and extensive commitments.

Islanders, their guests and visitors have enjoyed the festive and friendly Island Artisans Holiday Market at the Friday Harbor Elementary school every year since 1978!   This annual and colorful event provides a venue for more than fifty local artisans to sell their creations –  glasswork, paintings, ceramics, photography, clothing, jewelry, woodworking, and much more… Read More »Island Artisans Holiday Marketplace

Island Stage Left performs at several different venues and set-up for each performance requires the coordination of many hands and a lot of equipment. One of the more challenging elements has been the theatre platforms for audience seating which over time have molded, rotted and needed ongoing work to maintain safety.  The acquisition of safe,… Read More »Island Stage Left: Safe & Stable Theatre Seating

Friends and Neighbors is a program run through the Senior Services Council of San Juan County for island residents who have a need for home support which is practical and social but not medically focused.  The program works by assisting those who are aging or disabled and who may not have family or close neighbors… Read More »Friends & Neighbors, Senior Services Council of San Juan County

Families and Neighbors Support Island Rec, FANS is a new non-profit organization that sprang from a desire to help fill the financial gap between the San Juan Island community’s park and recreation needs and what the junior tax supported organization, Island Rec can afford to address. FANS is in a start-up phase and is working to establish the… Read More »Start-Up Funds for FANS: Families & Neighbors Support Island Rec

The Youth Positive Behavior Program is an expansion of the existing and successful Challenge and Youth Leadership Program.  The program is targeted toward students in grades 3 to 8.  The participants will develop essential life skills to promote their own physical, emotional/mental and social well-being.  The intent is to ultimately enhance their overall health, school… Read More »Youth Positive Behavior Program

The Culinary Arts program needed text books that represent what is currently taught.  This popular and efficient program funds consumables through student fees and the Culinary Arts budget.  Baked goods and other products are sold to purchase more ingredients and supplies.  New textbooks is a one-time expenditure. An innovative program extra gives photography students the opportunity… Read More »Culinary Arts for Students

Every public high school student is required to complete a community project.  Many projects are easily executed without a need for funding (creating websites, promoting a community event, coaching youth athletics etc…) but sometimes, a good idea requires supplies and/or materials. Funds for this program were exhausted in 2011. Fund requests undergo a rigorous process… Read More »Connecting Schools & Community

Arts education promotes creative problem solving and critical thinking, benefiting all areas of core learning. Leading the way, the Island Museum of Arts (IMA) saw arts classes for elementary and middle school students threatened by budget cuts and championed a program to retain and improve these classes. With the help of Foundation donors, art courses… Read More »Restoration of Arts Education in our Public Schools

There was a long overdue and real need to create an efficient way for high school students to better connect with community organizations looking for volunteers.  A well-designed, interactive website has enhanced and improved this process, better matching student volunteers with community needs.  Please visit their new website www.dollarsforscholarssji.org, click on ‘calendar opportunities’ and see how efficiently students and… Read More »Interactive Website: Dollars for Scholars

Finding professional, touring artists who bring the interest, capacity and areas of expertise that can resonate with students is a challenge. The San Juan Community Theatre, in partnership with Friday Harbor, Spring Street and Paideia schools, has identified two preforming art programs.  With the support of the Community Foundation, two vibrant, interactive educational theatrical programs will… Read More »Performance Art for students

Rachel Scott, the first person killed in the Columbine High School tragedy on April 20, 1999, left behind a challenge to treat others with kindness and compassion.  She wrote an essay ” code_of_ethics” , for a school assignment which inspired the Rachel’s Challenge program.  This special program grew from her dreams to “inspire, equip and empower every person to create a… Read More »Building Kindness & Compassion: Rachel’s Challenge

For support of the creation of a county-wide Arts Council whose Vision is – where arts flourish, community prospers and lives are enriched – and whose Mission is to work to promote and integrate the artistic resources of the county for the creative economic development, education and overall well-being of the community.  http://www.sanjuanartscouncil.org  

A partnership between the San Juan Nature Institute, The San Juan Preservation Trust and the Whale Museum. Environmental education for 60 students at Camp Eagle Rock as part of its summer program.

For secondary and post-secondary nurse assistant on-island education. Friday Harbor High School/Skagit Valley College.

Transportation support for low-come residents, including seniors who have necessary medical, unemployment and other types of appointments on the mainland.  San Juan Family Resource Center.

To purchase books to distribute to children from low and moderate income families as part of the San Juan Family Resource Center “Read to Your Child 20 minutes a Day” initiative. 

The Foundation’s Critical Needs Task Force Broadband Group received a grant to hire a local consultant to develop a funding plan that will support the installation of high-speed infrastructure with the goal of over 95% coverage for the islands.