We recently visited Habitat for Humanity of Island County to see firsthand how a Nonprofit Capacity Building grant is strengthening the systems behind their retail operations in Oak Harbor and Freeland.
This grant supported the purchase and implementation of ThriftCart–an all-in-one thrift store point of sale system. Before ThriftCart, inventory tracking was entirely manual, requiring significant staff and volunteer time to process donated goods as they came in. The shift to an integrated system has resulted in substantial time and labor savings, freeing up capacity for staff to focus on customers and mission-driven work. ThriftCart also provides, for the first time, a comprehensive, real-time inventory system, giving Habitat better insight into what’s coming in, what’s selling, and how to manage resources more effectively.
This kind of operational upgrade may not always be visible on the surface, but its impact is far-reaching. During our visit, we talked about how other thrift stores across the island face similar challenges, underscoring how critical these types of investments are for nonprofit sustainability.
A big part of bringing this project to life was the leadership of Oak Harbor Store Manager Rocky Hall, who recognized the opportunity and championed the need for funding. His commitment shows up not only in operational improvements, but in the way he serves customers every day. He goes above and beyond to ensure people feel supported and respected.
That care is especially evident in Habitat’s role as a trusted vendor in our Essential Needs Program, administered in partnership with the Opportunity Council. For individuals and families navigating moments of transition, such as a parent leaving a domestic violence situation and moving into stable housing, Habitat’s stores can be a place to access critical items like beds and furniture. Staff like Rocky play an important role in helping stretch limited budgets to meet real needs with dignity.
Revenue from these stores directly supports Habitat’s mission to build and preserve affordable housing across Island County. Strengthening the systems behind that revenue stream ultimately strengthens the organization’s ability to serve the community.
This $7,500 capacity-building grant was made possible through $7,000 from the Foundation Fund and $500 from a donor advised fund. In addition, Habitat received $7,500 in unrestricted support last year from another donor advised fund, reflecting strong and continued donor investment in their work.
As we reflect on ten years of community philanthropy, it’s clear that investments in nonprofit capacity like this one are essential. When organizations have the tools and systems they need, they can operate more efficiently, respond more effectively, and deepen their impact in the community.
Support Community Grants
WCF is able to provide grants like these with broad support from our community. If you are interested in supporting WCF Grant Programs, we invite you to make a contribution to WCF’s Foundation Fund, which holistically supports our grant programs, nonprofit trainings/workshops, and WCF operations. Our Board of Directors allocates funding each year to ensure nonprofits have access to critical resources. WCF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to Whidbey Island; all donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Learn about different ways to make a charitable contribution here.