A Celebration of Humanity: Philanthropy Takes Center Stage with Bainbridge Community Foundation
Last night, Bainbridge Community Foundation (BCF) proudly celebrated its 2025 Philanthropy Awards, and each award recipient shared at least one defining characteristic – they took action when they saw a need in our community. In a time when we’re facing unprecedented challenges, working together as a community is more critical than ever.
Every day, BCF puts into action the true meaning of philanthropy, a word derived from Greek to mean the “love of humanity.” During last night’s celebration, that spirit filled the room in a way that was truly palpable. The Foundation produced four tribute videos to honor each recipient, showcasing the remarkable impact of community members across Bainbridge Island.
One of the award recipients, The Buy Nothing Project, 
was recognized as the Outstanding Philanthropic Organization. Starting here on Bainbridge Island, the initiative has grown to serve more than 245,000 communities, promoting sustainability and reducing waste at the local level. As Rebecca Rockefeller, one of the founders, explained, the movement was born to reflect the values of this community by “doing what this Island does best, which is taking care of each other. It empowers neighbor-to-neighbor generosity. Philanthropy is not defined by scale or structure; it is defined by our spirit.”
The night celebrated those who have moved mountains and created waves to build the foundation of the community we enjoy today. From volunteering their time to shaping policy to donating to causes they care about, each award recipient said “yes” over and over again, and they did it with joy.
Jake Clemens, a long-time supporter of BCF and other local organizations, said about the event, “Especially now, this network of people is paramount, and the support of nonprofits is the safety net our community relies on.” She continued, “What BCF does is nurture and feed our community with exactly what it needs. It has never been more inspiring to see what people give to shape our future.”
Below are the 2025 Philanthropy Awardees:
Outstanding Youth Philanthropist | Jack Van Derrick
Born in Maine and raised partly in Costa Rica, Jack Van Derrick has called Bainbridge Island home for the past decade. A student in the BISD Adult Living Program, Jack embodies service and compassion, contributing over ten volunteer hours weekly at Helpline House, Bloedel Reserve, local libraries, and more. Inspired by early mentorship at the Ordway Library, he views helping others not as an obligation but as a joy that builds confidence, friendships, and life skills. An avid photographer and Minecraft fan, Jack believes commitment and kindness create purpose, making him a quiet yet powerful force for good in our community.
Outstanding Philanthropic Organization | The Buy Nothing Project
The Buy Nothing Project, founded in 2013 by Rebecca Rockefeller and Liesl Clark on Bainbridge Island, began as a simple idea. Sparked by their discovery of plastic waste washing onto local beaches, they created a Facebook group where neighbors could give and receive freely. The concept spread rapidly now impacting more than 245,000 communities, according to recent reports. Promoting a gift economy, Buy Nothing builds community, reduces waste, and redefines value through generosity. Rooted in Bainbridge’s spirit of sustainability and connection, it reminds us that sharing strengthens both people and the planet.
Philanthropic Spark Award | Tom McCloskey
Tom McCloskey has dedicated his life to service, learning, and connection. With degrees from Notre Dame and the Monterey Institute, he shaped environmental policy in Pennsylvania, authored federal oil and gas regulations, and founded a consulting firm that guided energy and wildlife recovery projects, including the Exxon Valdez response. Since moving to Bainbridge Island in 1994, Tom has led with heart as Rotary Club President, three-time Rotary Auction Chair, and Bainbridge Youth Services Board President. Guided by humility, humor, and the Rotary motto “Service Above Self,” Tom’s legacy is simple yet profound: make Bainbridge Island a little better every day.
Outstanding Philanthropists | Sallie and Andy Maron
For more than 40 years, Sallie and Andy Maron have quietly shaped Bainbridge Island through steadfast service, philanthropy, and leadership. Married for 56 years, they “go where they’re needed,” building community through connection and collaboration. Andy, an attorney and longtime civic leader, helped establish Bainbridge’s city government, its first Comprehensive Plan, and expanded open spaces and trails. Sallie’s leadership has advanced conservation, sustainability, art, and social justice—helping found BIJAEMA, Sustainable Bainbridge, and BARN. Guided by kindness, honesty, and respect, the Marons’ shared belief in saying “yes” has inspired generations to serve, and strengthened the island they call home.
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David Harrison, a BCF Board Member, stated in his remarks that despite the significant challenges we face today, “The power of community and our belief in the community have not wavered. That is where we are in 2025.”
View BCF’s videos highlighting each awardee.
Every honoree at this event has shaped our community in remarkable ways. You can do the same. All it takes is figuring out how, and we’re here to help. Join us today to make the impact you want to see by emailing media@bainbridgecf.org, or learn more about Bainbridge Community Foundation.
