I need a hand. A few years ago the Kiwanis Club on Vashon disbanded, and the program they organized each year was in jeopardy. My crew and I at John L. Scott along with Joyce Smith and Jan Lyell decided to lend a hand. Together we sponsored and organized the Toy Drive to keep that vital part of our island’s heart and soul. It felt a bit odd at first given that I am not Christian, but this has never been about religion for me. In my work I see so many families who struggle to live and raise a family on Vashon. Real wages for many are just not quite enough. This year in particular has been a struggle given the cost and extreme shortage of affordable housing and the extreme political changes we have all endured.

I am asking each of you to pause just a moment and consider the many blessings you have and join my crew of volunteers to contribute a new unwrapped toy or needed item (gloves, hats, etc.) at one of the many bins around the island. Collection bins can be found at Island Market, US Bank, Ace, Thriftway, Vashon Pharmacy, Island Lumber, Snapdragon and John L. Scott, or write a check to VYFS and write Toy Drive in the memo line. Every dime collected will end up on Christmas morning providing a special moment for a family who could use a hand on our island. There are no questions of qualifications, no determinations of what is a proper family, just the best this island community can place in the world of a child to let them know the joy of a Christmas morning.

Merry Christmas and goodwill to all.

— Ken Zaglin