The Permanent Endowment for Martha’s Vineyard awarded Island Grown Initiative (IGI) the 37th Creative Living Award at a presentation Monday, October 21 at the Farm Hub at Thimble Farm.

The award is inspired and funded by Ruth J. Bogan, who had a “deep love for the Island, and an appreciation for creativity and ingenuity,” according to Permanent Endowment executive director Emily Bramhall — the first to address the group gathered at the farm’s 3,200-square-foot aquaponics and hydroponics greenhouse. From Bogan’s generosity, the endowment now has 54 distinct funds and a value of more than $12 million, according to Bramhall.

“Ruth had great energy and unerring generosity,” Bramhall said. “She was always learning, and often teaching herself new subjects. She was a strong supporter of the natural world and the organizations that protected it here on the Island. She loved gardening, indoors and out … she could fix anything, and believed anyone could solve a problem if they put their mind to it.”

We thank our local papers for their coverage.