A decade ago, it was called the Christmas miracle. Now, Vashon Community Care — rescued nearly overnight when Islanders rallied several years ago and raised enough money to keep it from shutting its doors — is looking for another remarkable Vashon moment.
It’s seeking to raise $350,000 in a matter of months, round two, so to speak, in its decade-long effort to become a viable, independent care center for our elderly friends, relatives and neighbors.
On its face, it seems pretty far-fetched. That’s a lot of money to raise in a short amount of time. And while the organization may be compelling, the ask — at least at first blush — is not. All this money just to refinance? On an Island with a lot of inspired projects, this may not seem like the most exciting one.
But in fact, as Lynn Davison and Janelle Ansell pointed out in a news story this week, this isn’t your garden-variety refinance. It represents a significant, even historic opportunity for VCC to right itself financially, continue its mission and keep its doors open to those who are dependent on Medicaid.
It’s a chance to fulfill the vision that was so powerfully articulated a decade ago.
VCC plays an important role on the Island, especially one with an aging population. For some of us, it means a parent can get the support he or she needs — not far from our own home. It offers a break to those of us who are caregivers. It provides short-term rehabilitation to Islanders struggling to recover from surgery or illness. Most importantly, it completes a circle on Vashon: We care mightily about our children; VCC provides an opportunity to care for our elders.
A month or so ago, the Island rallied to support our local movie theater, raising enough money for owner Eileen Wolcott to make a needed conversion to a digital movie projection system. It was a fantastic effort, proving that Islanders can and will step up when a project tugs at their heart.
Let’s do it again, this time for the Island’s only full-service senior care center. A decade ago we saw the opportunity. It’s time, now, to finish the job.
