Island Institute

I joined the Board of Directors of this non-profit last week. I’d like to talk about it :-).

My retirement needs to be fulfilling, like most people say. I would like to insert myself in helping non-profits whose cause are important to me. Those causes include racial justice and diversity, kids and education, and Maine.

I have been involved with Junior Achievement since about 2005 (18 years) and Chair the Board of this non-profit in Connecticut. This scratches a couple of itches for me – kids, education and diversity. We prioritize helping kids in communities in need.

I also do pro bono consulting for non-profits in Ct. This doesn’t always tick my priority list, but I do get to use my experience to help some local non-profits, like Community Colleges, and the Catholic ‘Church (not sure how I got involved with them, but…).

What I was seeking next was a way to help my local community in Maine. I am helping introduce Junior Achievement to our little island, but then my online research led me to the Island Institute (www.islandinstitute.org). Their mission is to help waterfront communities on 15 islands up the coast of Maine. These local economies are under pressure from climate change, pressure on the lobster industry, educational needs, workforce and workforce housing challenges. They have a very interesting focus on aquaculture.

The mission attracted my attention and then getting to know the people involved solidified my commitment. I was elected to the Board last week at their annual meeting. More on this as I get a bit knowledgeable.