solutions for small island sustainability
STRENGTHENING, CONNECTING, PLANNING, TOGETHER
ELEUTHERA
small island BIG future
Since 2012, One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) has been on a mission to empower our local island communities, transforming them into thriving self-sufficient ecosystems. We are a community-based, people-centric, non-profit organization operating with the best interest of our local communities close at heart.
OEF was born out of a need to protect Eleuthera, our island-home, from large scale developments that threatened to forever alter the pristine natural landscape, disrupt fragile marine and land ecosystems and further disempower our people by perpetuating the cycle of over-dependency on foreign direct investment.
Our response is to unite and build a sustainable and equitable community development model, focused on the holistic well-being of those we serve. This model encompasses economic ownership, meaningful educational advancement, pathways to wellness, and environmentally sustainable communities centered around our island’s unique cultural identity. Read our full Shared Vision.
Today, we’re courageously reimagining our future. Through OEF’s consistent dedicated efforts, the tenacity and resourcefulness of our legacy community, and the support of donors and partners, we are creating change.
We are entering a new and accelerated phase of strategic growth, excited by the vista of progressive projects underway. Discover how these dynamic initiatives are creating sustainable growth, economic empowerment, and opportunities for our local communities to flourish and succeed.
One Eleuthera Foundation
Working together to own and sustain our economy
OEF was born out of a need to protect Eleuthera from large-scale developments that would forever alter the landscape of our island and continue the cycle of foreign investment as a necessity for a viable future. We set out to forever change this unsustainable cycle of dependency and empower our local communities into a model of ownership and self-sufficiency. These are our islands, and the time has come to educate, train, and fund our island communities to grow into thriving economies. We want to ensure that all Bahamians are participating, contributing, and benefiting from homegrown driven commerce. When we work together and support each other from a place of knowledge, we become ONE.
Vision Statement
Our Vision is for Eleuthera to become a thriving, inclusive, and equitable community-driven ecosystem for sustainable social and economic empowerment and development.
Mission Statement
Planning, strengthening, and connecting with people and organizations to create sustainable change on Eleuthera.
- Planning and preparing for the future.
- Strengthening communities, organizations, and partners throughout Eleuthera.
- Connecting communities, people, and spaces to enable open dialogue, promote a shared vision and facilitate access to the resources required to create positive and effective changes.
Your donation helps
One Eleuthera Foundation to
SUPPORT
Support innovative programs that train people to provide for themselves and their families.
PROTECT
Protect our island’s most vulnerable people and natural resources.
SUSTAIN
Sustain local agriculture, sustainable tourism, and non-profit enterprises.
Our commitment to our small island community
Key
areas
of focus
Inspired by the Shared Vision, OEF’s work centers around promoting, protecting and preserving within these Five Key Areas of Focus.
Economy
OEF believes that Eleutherans should own their own ECONOMY and sponsors a variety of programs designed to accomplish this goal.
Education
OEF believes that EDUCATION is key to Eleuthera’s future success and offers a variety of programs designed to give persons the skills and knowledge they need to thrive.
Environment
OEF believes that the protection of the ENVIRONMENT and its natural resources must be a high priority and promotes a variety of programs focused on conservation and sustainability.
Health
OEF believes that the HEALTH and well-being of Eleutherans is essential and offers and supports a variety of programs to promote healthy living.
Heritage
OEF believes in preserving Bahamian HERITAGE AND CULTURE and supports a number of efforts so that it can be celebrated by locals and guests for years to come.
A Shared Vision for
South Eleuthera
The formation of One Eleuthera was inspired by A Shared Vision for South Eleuthera, first commissioned by Friends of Lighthouse Point to develop a sustainable plan for Lighthouse Point and other special heritage and conservation sites on Eleuthera. These principles were developed by a wide range of stakeholders and are still relevant guideposts for the growth of our community today.
Strengthening Communities
Building upon the unique qualities inherent in each community.
Connecting the Island
Connecting the settlements and branding the Eleuthera experience through Island-wide heritage tourism.
Planning for the Future
Planning and setting guidelines for future sustainable development.