Edith W. Potter of Chappaquiddick, a longtime conservationist who wrote the first zoning bylaws for Edgartown and was influential in saving South Beach and the Katama airfield, will receive the annual Spirit of the Vineyard Award, Hospice of Martha’s Vineyard announced this week.

The award is given annually to a person who has served for one or more nonprofit organizations on the Island, and whose work has made a difference to individuals and to the community as a whole.

Hospice of Martha’s Vineyard is a free, community-supported program whose mission is to meet the unique physical, emotional and spiritual needs of all who are facing advanced illness and loss.

Edo Potter first came to the Vineyard in the winter of 1932, when her family had a hunting camp on Poucha Pond on Chappaquiddick, which they soon turned into a farm. She has lived year-round at Pimpneymouse Farm for more than 40 years and has a long and distinguished record of service in the community, both in government and in the nonprofit conservation sector.

A gathering to celebrate Ms. Potter and her accomplishments will be held on Thursday, Dec. 1, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Edgartown Yacht Club. Refreshments will be served and there will be a cash bar. All are invited to come to honor her.

Nominations for the Spirit of the Vineyard Award may be made at any time and sent to P.O. Box 1356, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568.