The COVID crisis has caused many things in our lives to be postponed. And although activities like swimming at state park beaches, community pools, and boating may be off the table for many of us this summer, this doesn’t negate the critical need for a place where our island kids can safely learn and practice swimming skills.
We understand that pressing community needs for services and support take precedence right now. We are inspired by the generosity of those stepping up to help others in need. We believe we’ll come out of this time with a deeper appreciation for what really matters: that we might consume less and connect more; that we might take better care of ourselves and view health through a new lens. That’s one of the reasons we’re more determined than ever to reach our funding goals and build the pool.
Pool construction can begin as soon as we reach our fundraising goal. Being able to break ground will provide much-needed jobs on Lopez, and will help ensure a safer future for our kids and a healthier future for our community.
Because we feel a strong obligation to continue the important work you have entrusted us with through your donations of time, energy, and money, we want you to know how we are moving forward.
We are building on tremendous progress made last year. In 2019, FLIP streamlined plans, value-engineered the construction budget, and “pressure tested” our business plan to create the capacity to complete our campaign. We also received a state award of $1 million; an anonymous stock donation worth over $500,000; a surprise $100,000 pledge for a Scholarship Fund to ensure all children, regardless of income, can swim; and more than $130,000 from our year-end appeal from 187 donors. Because of strong community support from more than 700 donors responding to our annual appeals and farmers market presence, we’ve raised $4.3 million and are more than halfway to our fundraising goal!
We are focusing our fundraising efforts on foundations and major donors. We’re also hiring an Executive Director to help guide our all-volunteer board and complete the capital campaign as quickly as possible.
YOUR SUPPORT IS AS VITAL AS EVER and there are still many ways to give. Your donations will bring our community closer to building a swim center for all.
Double YOUR GIFT and help us match a $10,000 donation from a generous supporter! Visit us at lopezislandpool.org/donate today, or go to givebigwa/friends-of-Lopez-Island-Pool/ to donate during GiveBIG WASHINGTON, May 5th & 6th. Early giving starts now through May 4th.
Stay safe and stay healthy!
Bill LeDrew, President; Robin Bergstrom, Vice President; Micki Ryan, Secretary; Tom DiGiorgio, Treasurer (interim); Linda Barton; Pedro Costa; Lisa DiGiorgio
Editing by Carolyn McGown