Dear Friends of the OrcaSong Institute,

We are writing to update you on some important developments regarding our work on Orcas Island.  We have decided to temporarily “pause” the OrcaSong Institute while we reassess how the Institute and its funding can best contribute to the ever-growing challenges of climate change, soil regeneration and community resilience.

Until recently, OSI has been conducting online workshops & conferences on regenerative agriculture and climate resiliency themes, supporting and funding island entrepreneurs in their quest to realize their dreams, engaging community members in designing a resilience hub and participating in the local and national Transition Community Movement. 

Since the beginning of the pandemic, OrcaSong Institute has contributed over $350,000 to Orcas Island and its people through the operations of the Institute and direct grants to non-profits including the Food Bank, Orcas Resource Center, Community Fund, Film Festival, Innovation Fund, Orcas Island Chamber Music Festival and others. This charitable giving will continue despite the pause in operations of the Institute.

We are not closing down the Institute, only pausing it. There are many excellent organizations, non-profits and leaders on Orcas Island committed to responding to climate change, activating regeneration and building resilience. We will be looking to maximize our impact in the future by coordinating closely with other non-profits and initiatives already in place.

We will complete OrcaSong Institute classes and programs underway in a limited fashion. The Innovation Fund for new business support will continue. Kat Steele will continue to consult for social, environmental, economic and climate justice, and invites you to stay in touch.  

At OrcaSong Farm, while the pandemic has impacted operations and income, the farm is re-tooling and will be open for the season (store, garden and events) and will continue to grow lavender, produce farm products, and serve customers in our farm store.

We are grateful to all those who’ve participated in our events, contributed so much and worked so hard to meet the demands of climate change and fulfill the vision of the Institute. We plan to continue to work to benefit all of our Orcas Island residents, visitors and friends to create the future we cherish, and our descendants deserve.    

Sincerely, 

David Dotlich  (david.dotlich@orcasong.farm)