Submitted by The San Juan Island Community Foundation

The San Juan Island Community Foundation is excited to launch the annual SJI Cares Fair Matching Grant campaign at the 2024 San Juan County Fair. Running from August 15-18, this year’s campaign will shine a spotlight on 30 local nonprofit organizations and the SJICF Women’s Fund, all committed to enhancing and sustaining a healthy community on San Juan Island.

The SJI Cares campaign is a unique opportunity for community members to engage with local nonprofits, learn about their work, and contribute to meaningful causes. Donations can be made online, via check, or directly at the SJICF fair booth, located in the main exhibition building.

SJICF will continue its tradition of matching the first $1,000 raised for each project with a chance to win bonus grants totaling $2,500 through a variety of games held during the 4 days of the fair. This matching opportunity amplifies the impact of every gift and helps these organizations reach their goals faster. There is no minimum for in-person donations. The online donation minimum is $5.

“We love visiting with our community members at the fair, and we’re thrilled to be supporting the vital work of these incredible local nonprofits,” said Amy Saxe-Eyler, Executive Director at SJICF. “The SJI Cares campaign showcases the breadth of nonprofit work within our community and gives everyone the chance to participate in supporting their favorite nonprofits. The online catalog portal is helpful for residents who may not be able to attend the fair. The bonus games are designed to include the entire community; we even have a game for children. If you do come out to the fair, don’t forget to stop by to see us!”

To learn more about the 2024 SJI Cares featured nonprofits and to donate online, visit sjicares.org. The catalog to accept donations will go live on Aug. 15, the opening day of the county fair.

Saxe-Eyler added, “Join us to learn more about these remarkable organizations, share the SJICF social media content, and see how community support can make a profound local difference. Let’s celebrate and elevate the sacred work these nonprofits provide to our community year after year.”