Advancing the Common Good

When you hear us talk about “advancing the common good” we

are talking about ways we can make sure everyone in our commu·

nity has the basic building blocks for a good life-an education, good

health, and financial security that lasts through retirement There are lots of

folks and organizations here in Kitsap who are working to advance the

common good by volunteering or through providing direct services. But who

would think that an architectural firm would be on that list

Rice, Fergus, Miller Architecture and Planning (RFM) should not be known just

for the buildings they design. They should also be recognized for how

involved their employees are in the community.

Everyone volunteers on a routine basis on their own and as a team for Habitat

for Humanity, Rebuild Together Kitsap and United Way’s Day of Caring. The

three principals of the firm are involved in Rotary, sit on the Central Kitsap

Fire Commission and the Harrison Foundation Board. The staff sponsors

families and kids during the holidays and puts together a team for the March

of Dimes walk each year. In 2008 they made charitable contributions to 10

different ~on·profit organizations. RFM also sponsors two scholarships each

year. One is for an Olympic College student who is either overcoming a dis·

ability or going into a field related to supporting those with a pediatric dis·

ability. The second scholarship is for a high school student who is planning

to study architecture or a related field.

As for all their architecture and planning, that involves non·profits too.

Some of the current and past clients include the Red Cross, YWCA, Boys and

Girls Club, Holly Ridge Center, St Vincent de Paul, Girl Scouts, YMCA, Harrison Medical Center, and Olympic College.