As the colors of fall emerge on the leaves outdoors, so do the rich colors of handcrafted glass pumpkins on sale at 12 Mercer Island locations.

Mercer Island Youth & Family Services (MIYFS) is once again partnering with Island artist Joni Johnson for the return of the annual ‘Pumpkin Patch Fundraiser.’

Handcrafted glass pumpkin are now on sale across the Island, with half of the proceeds going to support MIYFS programs, including counselors in all Island public schools, senior outreach and advocacy, affordable family and individual counseling, youth early intervention programs and family assistance.

As part of the Pumpkin Patch Fundraiser, Islanders who support the mission of MIYFS and the wellness of the Mercer Island community are recognized for their contributions.

This week, Kim Richards, MIYFS administrative coordinator, and Sari Weiss, MIYFS development officer, personally recognized seven such individuals with a glass pumpkin award and personalized note of appreciation — they were “pumpkined.”

Au Courant’s owner, Barb Hovsepian, was recognized as the newest and bestselling glass pumpkin merchant and a great supporter of MIYFS throughout the year.

Nancy and Roger Page, owners of Island Books, were also pumpkined. Nancy discussed her Pumpkin Patch display and said patrons come looking specifically for the glass pumpkins at this time of year.

Four additional Islanders were also pumpkined. Gary Plano, school district superintendent, was recognized for the continual partnership between MIYFS and the schools. Jeff Sanderson, owner of Stopsky’s Delicatessen, received thanks for his support during the MIYFS Giving from the Heart Breakfast event. Lastly, MIYFS thanked the mother-daughter duo, Kristin and Isabel Jamerson, who collect produce from the Mercer Island Farmers Market to make fresh fruits and vegetables available at the Food Pantry.

For information, including where the pumpkins are sold, contact MIYFS Administrative Coordinator Kim Richards at (206) 275-7754 or kim.richards@mercergov.org.