During this challenging period of uncertainty for the nonprofit sector, and for many, financial upheaval and destabilization, the Whatcom Community Foundation is supporting local nonprofit partners in a variety of ways:
Technical Assistance
Community Foundation staff are a safe place for staff and board to share challenges and concerns. Staff are helping organizations and leaders navigate:
Funding
Information Gathering
We are currently gathering information through a sector-wide survey to understand the current and anticipated impacts, needs, and other challenges as a result of Federal funding and policy shifts. We are sharing that information with policymakers, donors, and other funders, and doing what we can to help address them. Learn More HERE>
Communications
Whatcom Nonprofit Network Newsletter (WNN)
Whatcom Nonprofit Network (WNN) strengthens local nonprofits by building relationships, sharing resources, and communicating the vital role of the sector in our community. Our monthly newsletter is packed with local, state and national opportunities and resources.
To receive WNN monthly, sign up here. Send content to wcf@whatcomcf.org by the first Friday of each month.
Read the latest WNN News HERE>
THRIVE
Each issue of our quarterly newsletter, THRIVE, does a deep dive on one community opportunity or challenge. It’s a way to help inform people about issues, what the Community Foundation is doing about them, and provides information about what individuals can do. Each issue includes links to organizations doing work related to the topic area. The April 2025 issue is focused on the current dynamic and perilous landscape in which nonprofits are operating.
Read the latest issue of THRIVE HERE>
Media
Staff is reaching out and responding to media to illuminate the impacts on nonprofits and the communities they serve as well as actionable steps individuals can take, including giving to the organizations and issues that matter to them.
“I continue to hold so much appreciation for the incredible, adaptable, and powerful ways WCF is responding to community needs, and supporting us as we serve to do the same. Your trust-based philosophy and nimble and rapid responses are admirable, and this leadership is a beautiful model for others to aspire to.”
– Moonwater | Executive Director,
Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center
Nonprofit Resources
501 Commons
Provides expertise to nonprofits through 30+ services, including a full range of management consulting; technology consulting (IT planning and database development); outsourced HR, accounting, IT infrastructure, and database management services; professional development and board training; and free information and referral services
Washington Nonprofits
Some great resources include: “Boards In Gear” and Finance Unlocked for Nonprofits (FUN), actionable information and practical tools.
Bellingham Public Library
Nonprofit Resource Center
Information and tools to help grant-seekers find funds and to help nonprofits grow into vital community organizations.
Guide to Public Service Careers
Includes government, nonprofit, education and NGOs.
