The Officers’ Spouses’ Club of Whidbey Island (OSCWI) recently awarded more than $11,000 at an awards reception to local non-profit organizations and military family members attending college in the coming year.

The reception wrapped up a year-long fundraising effort in which the OSCWI raised more than $20,000 for non-profits, scholarships and individual command spouses groups.

The OSCWI is a non-profit social group dedicated to promoting and preserving interest in the Navy, Marine Corps and other branches of the military assigned to NAS Whidbey Island, and to foster good community relations.

“One of the ways we do this is by raising funds to distribute to local non-profits who support the NAS Whidbey Island Community,” said Lynn Cryer, OSCWI president. “We also give away scholarships to family members of active duty, reserve, retired and deceased personnel. It’s a great tradition.”

Throughout the year, OSCWI has held various events to raise money for their charity and scholarship fund.

The largest portion of this year’s funds, more than $19,000, were raised at the OSCWI “Time and Talent” benefit auction in April at NAS Whidbey Island M.T. McCormick Officers’ Club.

“It’s hectic and crazy, but by the end of the night you know that you’ve helped local families and non-profits,” said OSCWI award ceremony event chair Loryn Clemons. “It’s amazing to see so many officers and spouses come out and put their time and effort into this event. I am very impressed.”

This year, OSCWI awarded a total of 10 scholarships to Whidbey dependents: eight to graduating high school seniors, and two for spouses who are continuing their education. Fourteen local non-profits received grants from OSCWI, including the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, IDIPIC, COMPASS, TAPS and many others.

“We had a large number of applicants this year, especially in the graduating seniors category. The awarding process was difficult, but the Charity and Scholarship committee is confident the most deserving awardees were chosen.” The Officers’ Spouses Club of Whidbey Island will begin their 2009-2010 year in August. The group hopes to raise even more money for charities and scholarships for next year.

For information, e-mail or visit http://www.oscwi.com{{PERIOD}}