Our Blog

New Leaf‘s mission is to promote independence and quality of life through employment. Housing isn’t its core work, but stable housing had become such a critical need for some employees that New Leaf decided to address it directly. In 2025, after years of planning, the organization purchased six apartment units in Oak Harbor to house employees in severe need of stable housing.

Ryan’s House for Youth serves Whidbey Island’s youth and young adults experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Through emergency shelter, transitional housing, outreach, case management, and supportive services, the organization creates a safe place for young people while helping them build stability, independence, and hope for the future.

In 2025, the Whidbey Community Foundation was proud to support Ryan’s House through four grants totaling $17,000, reflecting both the breadth of their work and the interconnected needs of the young people they serve.

One of the greatest joys of our site visits is meeting the people who quietly hold communities together. At Mision Emanuel, that person is Pastor Maria Francisco.

Since 2009, Pastor Maria has been the heart and soul of this small Oak Harbor congregation of about 40 members. Yet the church’s reach extends far beyond its walls. Every month, volunteers provide food, household essentials, and home deliveries to approximately 300 local families, creating a trusted source of support for neighbors who may not otherwise know where to turn.

Founded to provide lifelong care for rescued and neglected farm animals, Ballydídean Farm Sanctuary is a South Whidbey nonprofit that combines animal welfare with environmental stewardship. Home to approximately 80 rescued animals, the sanctuary demonstrates how compassionate care and sustainable practices can work hand in hand. One of its most innovative programs transforms surplus food from local businesses into nutritious animal feed, reducing food waste while lowering the sanctuary’s operating costs.