Crockett Creates Foundation to Revitalize Tangier Island Community

By Miles Layton

Addison Crockett is taking on a major task: helping secure the future of one of Virginia’s most unique communities. This winter, she officially launched the Tangier Island Community Foundation, an organization focused on strengthening the island’s people, culture, and economy.

“Foundation’s mission is to revitalize Tangier Island by investing in its people, celebrating its heritage, and building a resilient local economy and tourism industry that benefits residents now and for generations to come,” she said.

Her connection to Tangier runs deep.

“I was inspired to create the Tangier Island community foundation because I grew up spending a lot of time on Tangier and know the amazing community and beautiful experiences the island offers to so many, and I want you to stay for generations to come,” she said.

When reflecting on her memories of Tangier, Crockett said, “I have many lifelong friendships that have been built there.” She added, “A consistent favorite day of mine every year is the Fourth of July. There’s nothing like the Fourth of July in Tangier. As well as Christmas time when I was a child.”

Her motivation remains personal. “I’m inspired to want to help with my grandparents, my mom and my friends who still live there.”

Crockett is already moving quickly to turn that mission into action. 

“I’m already hard at work assembling a Board of Directors, connecting with local, county, and state leaders for support, securing nonprofit status, and planning the first round of fundraisers and community events,” she said.

Crockett’s vision centers on collaboration and community involvement. 

“This Foundation will partner with current and former Tangiermen — and anyone who loves the island — to move this mission forward,” she said. “If you have a special skill set you’d like to contribute, please leave a comment below. If you’re ready to support financially, feel free to reach out directly.”

Crockett is also encouraging supporters to stay connected. 

“Be sure to follow Tangier Island Community Foundation on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on programs, events, and ways to get involved,” she said. “Together, we can help preserve and strengthen Tangier Island for future generations.”

Crockett emphasized the organization’s purpose in her own words. 

“Our mission is to revitalized Tangier Island by investing in its people celebrating a heritage in fostering, a resilient, local economy, and tourism that benefits residence now and for generations to come,” she said.

Crockett hopes to have the foundation operating soon. “We plan to have the foundation up and running by mid to late February, but of course, hopefully sooner,” Crockett said.

A student at the University of Kansas, Crockett, 18, is majoring in political science and public administration.  Crockett will lead the organization herself. 

“I will serve as the executive Director and I’m working on creating a board right now,” she said. “All of these positions will be unpaid, but if someone would like to volunteer their time, they can reach out to addison.crockett@tangierislandcommunityfoundation.org.”

Although she did not grow up on the island full-time, Tangier has always been central to her life. 

“I grew up in Lubbock, Texas, and spent my summers on tangier with my grandparents my mom grew up onto Tangier and as a young child she fostered in me how special of a community it is,” she said.

Through the Tangier Island Community Foundation, she hopes those relationships and traditions will continue to thrive for generations to come.