OUR HISTORY

Founded in 2010 with a single part-time staff member, the Orcas Community Resource Center has grown into a vital pillar of support for our island community. Our initial focus on enhancing parenting skills and improving outcomes for young families has expanded dramatically over the years.

By 2012, we had become a trusted administrator of state, county, and regional programs, including home weatherization, Medicaid and county transportation, energy assistance, and mental health services. Our impact grew rapidly, with the number of families served doubling from 125 in 2013 to 250 in 2014.

A transformative strategic planning process in 2015, supported by the Orcas Island Community Foundation, led to the appointment of a new nine-member board and set us on a path to become a leading social services organization. This evolution included forging close partnerships with other service providers, expanding our staff, relocating to a more suitable facility, and developing additional programs to meet our community's evolving needs.

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 dramatically increased the demand for our services. Prior to the pandemic, we provided approximately 30 services per day. As both new and long-standing community members sought assistance, our reach expanded significantly. By August 2024, we were providing 1,500 services to 563 clients, averaging 68 services daily.

Today, the Resource Center operates with a $1,234,140 budget and is guided by a team of 10 seasoned professionals and a diverse 10-member board of directors. Our board brings expertise in administration, finance, fundraising, governance, health, technology, law, strategic planning, and advocacy. Many of our board and staff members have personal experiences that align with the challenges faced by our clients, enhancing our ability to provide empathetic and effective support.

Thanks to the ongoing support of the Orcas Island Community Foundation, private donors, and community partners, we've developed a comprehensive safety net that is crucial to the well-being of Orcas Islanders. As we look to the future, we remain committed to adapting and expanding our services to meet the evolving needs of our community.