In just the past month, a handful of Vashon’s 45 nonprofits have received more than $40,000 in grants from federal, state and county entities. The grants are going toward a variety of events from trainings about how to be an active bystander and assist those suffering from mental health issues, to recreating a historically accurate Chautauqua assembly and keeping islanders, their pets and livestock safe from the island’s wildlife.

And while the funding from these sources is necessary and welcome news for Vashon organizations, islanders need to lend their support as well, but not in the way you might think.

When talking about nonprofit organizations, support too often comes with the connotation of money. While money is a crucial piece of the puzzle for most, support also comes in the form of engagement and participation in events these organizations put on for the community.

For example, the Vashon Conversation for the Living About Dying this week represents nearly one year’s worth of work by 50 volunteers who want to make the subject of death something we’re not afraid to talk about. The Voice of Vashon relies on a team of volunteers to produce entertaining and informative radio and television programming. The DoVE Project holds important trainings and educational workshops for violence prevention and healthy relationships, and offers services for those dealing with domestic violence. These are only a few of the nonprofits that call Vashon home, but they all require our involvement to stay viable.

So, when looking for ways to pass the time on a rainy winter weekend, turn your radio to the Voice of Vashon, visit the Heritage Museum, stop and have lunch at the Senior Center or attend a class given by one of the many social service or mental health organizations.

Support, of course, goes both ways. So as long as islanders continue to engage with these Vashon organizations, in return they will keep us and our animals safe, sheltered, informed and entertained. It’s a symbiotic relationship between the community and these organizations that make Vashon the place that so many are proud to call home.