In March, representatives from the Whidbey Community Foundation (WCF) visited the Island County Historical Society Museum (ICHS) to see the impact of their Nonprofit Capacity Building Grant. Founded in 1949, ICHS is dedicated to preserving and interpreting Island County’s cultural heritage. Located in Coupeville, the museum serves as a vibrant hub for exhibitions, educational programs, workshops, and research. As the only year-round museum in Island County, ICHS attracts visitors from around the world.
Strengthening Digital Security and Promoting Best Practices
ICHS recently completed vital technology upgrades funded by the grant, addressing vulnerabilities identified after a cyber security breach. Improvements included replacing outdated hardware, installing a secure firewall, and providing cyber security training for staff and volunteers. The museum’s enhanced Wi-Fi network now supports the museum tour app, designed for visitors with vision or hearing impairments and those who prefer information in other languages.
By modernizing its digital infrastructure, ICHS is now better equipped to protect archives, donor information, and staff records while also enhancing the visitor experience. These upgrades reinforce the museum’s commitment to creating a welcoming and secure environment for all.
Cyber Security Tips for Nonprofits:
During the visit, we discussed the importance of digital security for Whidbey Island’s nonprofits. Based on ICHS’s experience, here are some key tips:
- Update Systems Regularly: Keep software, hardware, and security tools up to date.
- Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Add an extra security layer to reduce unauthorized access.
- Train Your Team: Educate staff on cyber hygiene, including recognizing phishing attempts and creating strong passwords.
- Secure Data Backups: Store backups securely, either offline or in encrypted cloud storage.
- Install Firewalls and Antivirus Protection: Use robust security tools to detect and block threats.
By adopting these practices, nonprofits can build digital resilience and safeguard sensitive information, just as ICHS has done.
Fostering Community Connections and Celebrating Milestone
ICHS is not just about preserving history—it’s about community connection. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the historic schooner SUVA, an essential piece of Whidbey’s maritime heritage. ICHS is hosting a special exhibit, 100 Years of SUVA, to honor the vessel’s legacy and its role in the community. This celebration reflects ICHS’s dedication to sharing Whidbey’s maritime story with residents and visitors alike.
In the past year, ICHS hosted over 800 students, delivered 28 public lectures, and participated in 21 community outreach programs. The museum continues to foster community involvement by partnering with local Indigenous groups and ensuring exhibits are accessible to a diverse audience.
Museum staff expressed their gratitude for the WCF grant, noting that these critical upgrades would not have been possible without it. Now, ICHS is better prepared to serve as a trusted steward of Island County’s heritage while maintaining a safe and welcoming space for all visitors.
WCF is proud to support the Island County Historical Society Museum as it continues to build resilience and strengthen community connections. Learn more about ICHS here: Island County Historical Society Website
Support Nonprofit Capacity-Building Grants
WCF’s Nonprofit Capacity-Building Grant Program strengthens the internal operations of Whidbey Island nonprofits, helping them grow and sustain their impact. By funding staff development, technology upgrades, financial planning, and strategic assessments, WCF supports long-term resilience. Investing in organizational infrastructure rather than program costs allows nonprofits to operate more effectively and expand their community impact.
WCF can offer grants like these thanks to community support. If you’d like to contribute to the Nonprofit Capacity-Building Grant Program, please consider donating to WCF’s Foundation Fund. Your support helps provide essential resources and training for nonprofits across Whidbey Island. WCF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and all donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
Learn about different ways to make a charitable contribution here.