In this issue of the Vine, we celebrate the people and organizations that make living on the Vineyard a better place. We’ve put together our fifth annual Island Nonprofit Directory, which we call (not accidentally) the Heart of the Vineyard. When you sit down to look at it, you’ll be amazed that we have more than 120 organizations dedicated to the arts, community services, health services, conservation efforts, education, housing and recreation, and more. We hope you might be inspired to volunteer or lend support to an organization that touches your heart. You can also take a quick look at some snapshots we put together of 12 of those nonprofits.

In “Everyday Heroes,” writer Louisa Hufstader talks to some Island volunteers who do double-duty—which is not as unusual as you’d think. Like people who have two or three or more jobs on the Island, there are those who volunteer for more than one non-profit. We’re inspired!

And since February is a good month for comfort food (and open restaurants can be elusive), we asked Erin Ryerson to catch up with Chef Deon Thomas, who’s turned the VFW in Oak Bluffs into an alluring dinner spot for those who want a casual atmosphere and comforting food.

Keep warm, eat well, and stay connected to your neighbors — and we'll be back in April with some inspiration for your home and garden.