Incorporated in 2020, the Oak Harbor Creative Arts Foundation (OHCAF) was formed with a bold vision: to unify and uplift Whidbey Island’s vibrant but often fragmented arts scene—particularly in North Whidbey. What started as a group of passionate artists and advocates has grown into an emerging force working to build a thriving arts ecosystem that reflects the full diversity and creativity of the Oak Harbor community.
In 2024, OHCAF received a Nonprofit Capacity Building Grant to develop its first-ever comprehensive fundraising plan—a foundational tool that will shape how the organization sustains its mission over time. As the organization builds momentum, the timing couldn’t be better. Community interest is growing, stakeholders are energized, and new collaborations with partners like the City of Oak Harbor and Whidbey Island Arts Council are forming.
The project includes hiring a fundraising consultant, researching potential donor bases, and crafting strategies that are as creative as the organization itself. From diversifying revenue streams to strengthening donor engagement, OHCAF is focused on creating the kind of long-term financial sustainability that will allow it to dream—and build—bigger. That includes goals like a large-scale performance and maker space to serve North Whidbey and beyond.
The anticipated outcomes are not just about dollars raised, but about impact multiplied. A strong fundraising infrastructure will help OHCAF increase visibility, expand programming, and deepen community connections. Most importantly, it will allow the organization to stay true to its mission: ensuring that all Whidbey residents—regardless of background—can access and contribute to a flourishing arts community.
From workshops to performances, from murals to makerspaces, OHCAF is laying the groundwork for something lasting. And with a solid plan in place, the creative spark they’ve ignited in Oak Harbor is sure to keep growing.
Learn more about OHCAF at https://www.ohcaf.org/.
Support Nonprofit Capacity-Building Grants
CF’s Nonprofit Capacity-Building Grant Program strengthens the internal operations of Whidbey Island nonprofits, ensuring they have the tools to grow and sustain their impact. By funding staff and board development, technology upgrades, financial planning, and strategic assessments, WCF helps organizations build long-term resilience. Investing in organizational infrastructure rather than direct program costs allows nonprofits to operate more effectively and expand their impact in the community.
WCF is able to provide grants like these with broad support from our community. If you are interested in supporting the Nonprofit Capacity-Building Grant Program, 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.