Plans and Reports
Making Progress
Our Mission
Friends of Onancock School (FOS) is a 501-c(3) non-profit dedicated to preserving the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future through inclusive community engagement. FOS achieves its goals by empowering and connecting our community by fostering inspiration and creativity through dynamic programs, exhibitions, the arts, and recreational and educational initiatives that strengthen cultural ties and promote meaningful cultural exchanges.
Our Vision
Our vision is to be the welcoming heart (or hub) of a vibrant and connected community where heritage and diverse traditions are honored, identities are strengthened, and all people —locals and newcomers—across generations are united, inspired, and engaged, through continued development of the facility and diverse program offerings.
Our Values
Our values are the principles that guide our decisions and behavior. They include the following:
Community Engagement: Creating opportunities for shared cultural, recreational, educational, and artistic experiences that strengthen social bonds.
Cultural Heritage and Preservation: Honoring the past while making it relevant for future generations.
Inclusivity and Diversity: Embracing all backgrounds and voices to build a sense of belonging and cultural richness.
Creativity and Expression: Fostering artistic exploration and innovation to inspire and connect our community.
Education and Lifelong Learning: Supporting personal growth and understanding through arts, recreation, education and cultural programs.
Collaboration and Partnership: Working together with other organizations, government officials, and community members to create lasting community impact.
Inspiration and Innovation: Balancing tradition with forward-thinking ideas to keep our
cultural center dynamic and evolving.
Strategic Plan 2022-25
A four year strategic plan that was developed in 2021 and voted and approved in January 2022. This plan will guide our efforts to improve the building and open spaces and to increase the value of the Historic Onancock School as a cultural and community center. Major goals include:
Continue to improve the building and open space of the Historic Onancock School
Ensure sufficient income to cover operational expenses and to increase contingency/capital funds
Cultivate greater community support and outreach to increase usage of facility
Maintain and grow active tenants who support the FOS mission