NEK Day at the Statehouse '24

Friday, January 26th, 9-10:30am | Register→ | Google Calendar event→

Our fifth annual NEK Day at the Statehouse event is shaping up to be our most pressing ever. Though clear of the shadow of Covid-19, the NEK has been racked by two historic floods and ever-rising housing complications. Community building and grassroot action networks have shown themselves to be powerful answers to the problems that are to come. Our future will be defined the same way that our region’s past has; by community organization and regional collaboration.

The NEK Collaborative is a convening organization that acts as a unified voice for the NEK. We listen and talk to individuals and organizations all over the Kingdom to determine what's important to you and what challenges you face. We're committed to promoting civic and civil engagement across our region by connecting NEK residents with our representatives in Montpelier whenever possible. It is at NEK Day at the Statehouse that this work, and your worries, meet together with our political representatives to make sure we are all cooperating, bottom to top, with the region’s interests in mind.

This year, we will be featuring speakers speaking to our five identified areas of priority:

• Housing

• Community Building and Grassroots Networks

• Flood Recovery and Resilience

• Infrastructure- transportation, the creative economy, and broadband

• Workforce Development

Housing

According to North Country Hospital’s Community Health 2021 Needs Assessment, affordable housing and living-wage employment were the Northeast Kingdom’s two most region-defining needs. This has been the case for some time- and is not a new issue for the old residents of the NEK. As with any issue so complex, answers to housing prices, housing affordability, rental rates and houselessness appear and change throughout the years.

Come to NEK Day 2024 ready to share how you or your community have been personally affected by housing or housing related programs in the last few years; as well as ready to hear what regional experts and officials have to say about the issues as a whole.

Community Building & Grassroots Networks

The communities of the Northeast Kingdom can’t be treated just the same as any other. With the most rural and most aged population of Vermont, citizens of the Northeast Kingdom need to look further abroad than their own shoes when making sustainable decisions. In the face of floods and community fragmentation, newly-begun organizations such as Hardwick’s Civic Standard or the NEK Collaborative’s partner NEK Organizing have shown remarkable plasticity and fortitude of response to social tension and climate crises. Volunteers offering manual labor to help regional neighbors recover from flood devastation, as well as assistance in navigating difficult FEMA paperwork, steered the Northeast Kingdom towards a speedy and mediated recovery. The community mobility that NEKO exemplified in 2023 could only be possible where regionally-minded communal sentiment was made to thrive; and the community dinners, dance nights, poetry clubs and fundraisers headed by the likes of the Civic Standard should inspire us to pursue more programs such as those here seen. They have proven themselves to be the shaping forces of our region.

Flood Recovery & Resilience

How can we better prepare for climatological disasters down the road, knowing they are likely to worsen in the coming years? The floods that struck in July, August and December of 2023 are but a sign of things to come. Using federal cash, Vermont has made big investments in new culverts and bridges, flood-proofing buildings, filling in basements, and property buyouts to restore floodplains. It is only through proper communication and collaboration with communities and locals that regional decision makers may be well-guided in future-proofing the Kingdom. Infrastructure and community response readiness must be watched closely and bolstered if our region is to thrive in the coming future. Join us in helping to establish a mutual understanding between the region’s communities and their representatives.

Infrastructure - Transportation, Creative economy and Broadband

With the Northeast Kingdom receiving international recognition for its cuisine and natural beauty in 2023 (see Jasper Hill Farm’s #1 award→ for Best American Cheese at the 2023 World Cheese Championships, or Kingdom Trails’ #2 award→ for the world’s best mountain biking trails), tourism and creative economies are under a new sort of spotlight. Regional transportation, creative marketing and broadband accessibility will all prove definitive of the Northeast Kingdom’s economy in the years to come. Come talk about what’s being done, and what yet needs to be done!

Workforce Development

Workforce development remains a definitive problem in the NEK; making sure that everyone who should work, can work, and can live happily on the wages their work provides. Trained and certified quality labor, accessibility to adult education, and affordable housing remain key components of ensuring that our NEK towns and businesses can stay NEK.

NEK Day at the Statehouse

Date

Virtual Event: Register→ for Zoom link.

This is your chance to connect with legislators and fellow NEKers. Celebrate the region, share priorities, and learn what’s been happening at the state level.

Want to know what to expect? Visit our NEK Day 2022 Recap→ for a taste of what past years have had to offer.

NEK Together 2023

We're always at our best together- when we join together to find solutions, to plan, and to celebrate what makes our region vibrant and unique. Thanks for joining us.

NEK Together will be Thursday, November 9th, at Burke Mountain Hotel & Conference Center, from 9 AM- 4 PM.

Our theme this year is Building Community and Capacity. We hope you'll gather with other NEK changemakers and leaders on the 9th for a day of learning, collaboration, and fun!

Registration costs $50, with costs-covered options available. Sponsorship provides our generous supporters with a wide range of promotional opportunities- check it out!

Day of The Event - Agenda

9:00 AM Conference Welcome: Jennifer Carlo, Executive Director, NEK Collaborative

The NEK Collaborative is a convening organization that seeks to improve the quality of life for all residents of the NEK through coordinated economic and community development.  Our vision is a strong, vibrant Northeast Kingdom where we all thrive.

Audio Greeting from Senator Peter Welch

9:20 AM Keynote Speaker:  Kevin Chu, Executive Director, Vermont Futures Project

The Vermont Futures Project is developing a statewide economic action plan informed by data and aiming to set bold and attainable goals for Vermont's future.  The plan is built on two fundamental components that define communities: people and places.  In order to strengthen Vermont's economy, scale up impact on sustainability, and make progress on social equity, the Vermont Futures Project is setting a goal to increase our population to 802,000 people and non-seasonal housing stock to 350,000 units by 2035.  Learn how these goals were calculated and share ideas about actions that can be taken at the local and state level toward achieving them.

10:30 AM Breakout Sessions

A: Legislative Forum

Senator Robert Starr (D)
Orleans District
Chair, Senate Agriculture Committee

Representative Michael Marcotte (R)
Orleans/Lamoille District
Chair, House Committee on Commerce and Economic Development

Representative Scott Campbell (D)
Caledonia/Essex District
House Committee on Transportation

Representative Terri Lynn Williams
Essex/Caledonia District
House Committee on Education

Join some of our veteran legislators from the NEK Caucus for a conversation about priorities and challenges in Montpelier in the coming session. What are the issues important to NEKers, and what can we anticipate in the coming year?

B: Housing in the NEK and Beyond

Facilitator: Sarah Waring, USDA State Director, Rural Development, VT and NH
Panelists: Kevin Chu, Executive Director, Vermont Futures Project
Shaun Gilpin, Housing Division Director, VT Department of Housing and Community Development
Seth Leonard, Managing Director of Community Development, VT Housing Finance Agency
Dan Ridlehoover, Senior Manager of Project Development, M&S Development LLC
Gus Seelig, Executive Director, VT Housing and Conservation Board

Housing continues to be one of the biggest priorities shared with the Collaborative at  convenings and community meetings. Our panel will bring together several experts in  the field to discuss challenges and solutions.

C: Connections, Collaboration, & Community

Facilitators: Phyllis Ershowsky, Marketing and Communications Specialist, VTSBDC
Sara Munro, Project Coordinator, VTSBDC

Learn about Vermont’s Community Navigator Pilot Program (CNPP) from several members of the network of partners who have joined together to support the growth of small businesses in Vermont to ensure that every small business owner knows about and has access to the services and support available to help you succeed. Connect with one of us to connect with all of us.

D: Facilitation 101

Jenna Koloski and Jessica Savage, Vermont Council on Rural Development

Strong facilitation skills can be a key to successful meetings and community conversations. In this workshop, we will share key facilitation skills and strategies and give participants a chance to try them out. Walk away with strategies you can put to use in your next meeting or convening!

E: NEK Community Builders

Facilitator: Loralee Tester- Building Community in Lyndonville

Emilie Begin-Giddings- Building Community in St. Johnsbury

Steven Isham- Building Community in St. Johnsbury

Andrea Otto- Building Community in St. Johnsbury

Sharon Ellingwood-White- Building Community in Lemington

F: The Future of Public Transportation in the NEK

Caleb Grant, Executive Director, Rural Community Transportation

Cynthia Stuart, Stuart Consulting

Public transportation plays a vital role in fostering livable communities in the rural landscape of Vermont by offering essential transportation solutions accessible to individuals of diverse ages, income levels, and physical capabilities. We invite you to engage in a conversation regarding the existing public transportation services provided in the Northeast Kingdom and our collective aspirations for the future of public transportation in our region.

12:00 PM Lunch/Tabling

1:15 PM Breakout Sessions

A: New Business Development in the NEK

Facilitator:  Jim Kisch, President, Passumpsic Bank
Panelists: Evan Carlson, Whiteout Solution
Janis Raye, Brick Math
Eric Remick, Hardwick Yellow Barn
Alejandra Taylor, Sewn By a Taylor

B: Neighboring in the Kingdom- The NEK Working Communities Challenge and Our Neighbor-to-Neighbor Networks

Facilitator: Kari White, NEK WCC Core Team Member and Director of Community Health Equity, Northern Counties Health Care
Panelists: Juliet Emas, NEK WCC Core Team Member and Director of the St Johnsbury Community Hub
Meghan Wayland, NEK WCC Core Team Member and Lead Organizing, Northeast Kingdom Organizing (NEKO)

Neighbor-to-neighbor networks are a crucial part of the fabric of life in the NEK.  They  connect community members and help build social capital, and provide a way for  individuals to support and help each other during times of need.  There are so many ways to neighbor!  Learn more about the NEK WCC and its work building and sustaining community hubs; about mutual aid and doorknocking and phone trees; and about vibrant community events to bring people together.  Members of the NEK WCC Core Team, Northeast Kingdom Organizing (NEKO), and others will discuss their work and help you get involved.

C: NEK Broadband: An Update and the Plan for the Next Year

Christa Shute, Executive Director, NEK Broadband

Join NEK Broadband to learn about the past year’s progress toward the goal of bringing  high-quality broadband to all residents of the NEK, and hear more about the next steps planned for the year to come.

D: Leveraging Municipal Resources

Katie Buckley, Director, Federal Funding Program, Vermont League of Cities and Towns
Annie McLean, Community and Economic Recovery Specialist, Northeastern Vermont Development Association (NVDA)

Learn about opportunities to build municipal capacity by coordinating with other  Federal, State, and Local funding sources and collaborating with community and  state leaders.

E: Downtown Revitalization and Community Building Through the Arts

Facilitator: Jody Fried, Executive Director, Catamount Arts
Panelists: Andy Bouchard, Cross-Border Creative Marketing, Newport/Derby
Maire Folan, UVM Extension, Newport/Derby
Gillian Sewake, Executive Director, Discover St Johnsbury
Molly Stone, Artistic Director, Catamount Arts, and NEK Zone Agent, the Vermont Creative Network, St Johnsbury
Panelist TBD, The Civic Standard, Hardwick

Several communities around the NEK have revitalized their downtowns and built  community through a thriving arts scene.  Come learn how they did it and why the creative economy is a powerful driver of development in the NEK and beyond.

F: Moving Stories

Sha’an Mouliert, The Root Social Justice Center

Stories have been a method of documenting and experiencing the human condition throughout the ages. In this problem-solving workshop, participants will experience a sense of agency and accomplishment through storytelling. They will have the opportunity to creatively explore their strengths, identify their challenges and develop a strategy to overcome obstacles.

2:45 PM A Call to Action

Facilitator: Meghan Wayland, Lead Organizer, and the Members of Northeast Kingdom Organizing (NEKO) 

What have we heard and learned and created today?  Let's generate some ideas and some plans for action in the NEK- together.  We'll process what we've heard today and create some plans and recommendations.  Let's take action!

Day of The Event - Speakers

Andy Bouchard created Borderline Entertainment (BLE), a small music production outfit in Holland with the goal of bringing eclectic original music to the border communities.  BLE got its home at The Barrage, after Andy converted his barn/garage into the DIY venue hosting monthly music shows during the warmer months.  Over the past seven years through The Barrage and a handful of other small local spaces BLE has brought over 80 musical acts to the border communities of Holland and Derby hosting artists from across the world.  Other than BLE Andy works as a Special Educator at North Country Union High School, and serves on the Select Board in Holland where he lives with his family of four going on five.

Representative Scott Campbell (D), of St. Johnsbury, has lived in Vermont for more than 30 years.  His background is in construction, building design, and energy performance modeling.  Scott’s focus as a public servant is on the most effective leverage points to rebuild rural community viability in his hometown and throughout Vermont, both economically and socially.  Vibrant arts, recreation, education, housing, health care, child care, transportation, and technology infrastructure are all vital to the success of businesses and families.  Scott has served in the Vermont House of Representatives since 2019.

Jennifer Carlo has served as the executive director of the Northeast Kingdom Collaborative since 2021. Prior to that, she worked in higher education for more than 25 years, most recently as a vice president for student affairs and dean of students. Jen spent a few years as the dean of students at Goddard in the late 1990s and made the mistake of moving away from Vermont, only to spend many years trying to get back! (She’s here for good now.) To come back to Vermont, she ran off with the circus in 2017 and was the executive director at Circus Smirkus for three years. Jen also serves as an adjunct professor at Carlow University. She’s mildly obsessed with the fiber arts, and as a side gig she owns a yarn store in Waterbury and serves as the president of the Green Mountain Knitting Guild. She has an AB in sociology from Princeton, an MA in education from Goddard and an MBA from Carlow, and a PhD in leadership and change from Antioch University.

Kevin Chu grew up in Vermont and is looking forward to growing old here too. He is the son of immigrants and spent most of his early years living and learning in Burlington. Kevin is a graduate of Middlebury College, where he studied the environment and education while also competing in track and field. Prior to joining the Vermont Futures Project, Kevin worked at the University of Vermont, where he led efforts in recruiting for diversity, academic advising, communications, community engagement and economic development, and strategic planning. He is now the executive director of the Vermont Futures Project, a nonpartisan organization that is working to answer the mission question: "How can we use data to support the evolution of Vermont's economy towards a thriving future with opportunity for all?"

Juliet Emas is currently the Director of the St. Johnsbury Community Hub Project. She grew up in both Caledonia County, Vermont and Philadelphia, PA. She is thrilled to be able to give back to the NEK in her current role. With a master’s in Conflict Resolution and an undergraduate degree in Sociology and communication Studies, Juliet has lived experience as well as academic experience. Her academic studies and research involved studying global and community conflict as well as looking at social support systems, services and representation. She has worked in a variety of environments including two urban public school Systems, healthcare facilities, immigration/refugee resettlement service, victim services and more. In addition, Juliet has lived and worked overseas and has traveled to more than 48 different countries. Juliet’s work, wherever it is, seeks to explore, strengthen and support community stability. She hopes to contribute to the world's future. Community starts here, with each of us, working to shape it together.

Maire Folan is the director of UVM Extension's Community Nutrition Education program, based out of the Newport Extension office. She is on the board of Catamount Arts, Green Mountain Farm to School, and the NEK Young Professionals Network. She is committed to helping her community thrive and loves getting outside in all the seasons. She lives in Holland with her husband Andy, his two kids, and a little one on the way.

Jody Fried is both the Executive Director of Catamount Film & Arts in St. Johnsbury and Director of the Vermont Leadership Institute (VLI) and the Snelling Center for Government. His work as a volunteer in the Northeast Kingdom is extensive, including serving as a Corporator at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital, Passumpsic Savings Bank and Lyndon Institute, current member (and past President) of the Board of Directors of the Northeast Kingdom Collaborative, and as the past President of both the Burke Area Chamber of Commerce and the Northeast Kingdom Travel and Tourism Association. He has also served in various statewide leadership roles including as the current Chair of the Vermont Creative Network and as a Governor-appointed member of the Vermont Travel and Recreation Council, as well as having previously served as a founding member of the Vermont Tax Advisory Board. Jody is a graduate of the VLI Class of 2012 and a University of Vermont alum.

Shaun Gilpin

Jim Kisch joined Passumpsic Savings Bank on October 11, 2016 as Chief Executive and President. Prior to joining the Bank, he was Chief Strategy/Information Officer and Co-Founder for Continuity, a leading provider of Regulatory Technology (RegTech) solutions that automate compliance management for financial institutions of all sizes nationwide. Continuity has been a serial winner of the Marcum Tech Top 40 and Inc. 5000 growth awards, and won the 2015 fastest growing tech company in Connecticut. Jim started his career in banking 30 years ago. He held a variety of executive positions in the banking industry for over fourteen years before joining the Minnesota Bankers Association as the president of the association’s Insurance and Service Division and Consulting Group; the association’s wholly owned bank compliance and IT consultancy. Jim serves on the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum Board as Treasurer, as the Vermont Bankers Association’s Second Vice Chairperson, Chairman of the Board of Northeast Home Loan, Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital Corporator and Plymouth State University College of Business Advisory Board.

Jenna Koloski has been the Director of Community Engagement and Policy at the Vermont Council on Rural Development since 2015. In that role, she coordinates statewide policy discussions on issues that impact rural communities and facilitates community-level prioritization for the future of Vermont towns. Prior to the work at VCRD, she worked in several Vermont organizations focused on outdoor recreation, community development, and food security. Jenna studied Conservation and Biodiversity at McGill University and holds a master’s degree in Environmental Law and Policy from Vermont Law School. Jenna serves as the President of the Vermont Community Development Association. She lives with her family in Huntington Vermont.

Seth Leonard serves as the Managing Director of Community Development for the Vermont Housing Finance Agency. In his role Seth directs the Agency’s multi-family rental housing lending, tax credit allocation activities, asset management, compliance, research and community relations.   Prior to joining the Agency in 2019, Seth served at the Vermont and New Hampshire USDA Office of Rural Development, where he served as Housing Program Director.  Previous experience includes work in VHFA’s Single Family Housing department and Opportunities Credit Union. Seth also served as the mayor of the city of Winooski from 2015 through the beginning of 2019, which was preceded by two years as a city councilor.  Seth is a graduate of the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. He completed the National Development Council’s Rental Housing Certification Program, and the University of Notre Dame’s Leadership in a Complex Era through the Mendoza Executive Leadership Program. In 2020 Seth was recognized by Vermont Business Magazine as a Rising Star, in acknowledgment of professional and community volunteer contributions for Vermonters under the age of 40. Seth completed the Center for Community Investment’s Fulcrum Fellowship in 2023.

Representative Michael Marcotte (R), Coventry, Orleans County, was born in Newport, Vermont, and has been a resident of Coventry since 1978. He is a businessman/store owner. He was educated at Sacred Heart Graded and High Schools, Newport, Vermont. Memberships and affiliations: Joined the Economic Development Council of Northern Vermont Board of Directors in the spring of 2006; Chairman, Coventry Selectboard; Past DDGER National Elks; Past Exalted Ruler, Newport Elks; Past Chairman, St. Mary of the Sea Parish Council; Member, Gibbons Council Knights of Columbus 3rd Degree; Past Director, Coventry Town Foundation. Completed Council of State Gov. Eastern Leadership Program ELA Fellows; elected to Board of Directors of the Orleans/Essex VNA & Hospice in 2007; Elected President of the Board 2010. He has served in the Vermont House of Representatives since 2005.

Annie McLean is the Community and Economic Recovery Specialist at the Northeastern Vermont Development Association (NVDA). Annie leads NVDA’s Municipal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Assistance and Coordination Program and is responsible for assisting Northeast Kingdom businesses and local governments access COVID-19 recovery resources and other economic development funding. Annie holds a Master’s Degree in City and Regional Planning from California Polytechnic University and has over 10 years of community development experience. She previously served as Planning Director for the Town of Lyndon from 2016 through 2020 and has held various municipal planning positions throughout Vermont in addition to getting her professional start working as a disaster recovery consultant both with FEMA and in the private sector. Annie currently serves on the board of the Vermont Community Development Association (VCDA) and the board of Four Seasons of Early Learning, a non-profit early education organization offering nature-based preschool, infant and toddler care in Greensboro Bend.

Sha’an Mouliert, M.Ed. Originally from New York City, moved to the Northeast Kingdom with her family in 1983. For over 35 years she’s been a consultant, community organizer, educator and artist. In 2015, she received Lyndon State College’s Presidential Medal of Distinction and in 2021, the Rutland NAACP Lifetime Achievement Award. Currently, Sha’an is the coordinator of the I Am Vermont Too,a project of The Root Social Justice Center, as well as, producer and host for I Am Vermont Too TV show. Recently, Sha’an has facilitated Racial Literacy a Healing Practice trainings with several Vermont communities and organizations. She lives in St. Johnsbury.

A software and computing consultant from the private sector, Eric Remick currently serves as the Chair of the Hardwick Selectboard and is a key member of the Hardwick Yellow Barn core project team. He has participated in weekly progress meetings since the core team’s formation in 2018 and has served as an anchor tenant liaison by attending regular design meetings with the project team’s architect and engineers, as well as design consultants for anchor tenants. Familiar with local, state and federal funding sources, he also regularly interfaces with project grant funders and lenders. He is also active on the Hardwick Trails Committee.  He lives in Hardwick, where he has been a sugar maker since 2004.

A desire to tackle complex housing projects and improve rural economies led Dan Ridlehoover to join the M&S Development Team. Dan enjoys advocating for projects and clients and is a building operations junkie. He excels at pulling together the many pieces of a development to drive projects to completion. He holds a BA from University of California, Santa Cruz, and seven years’ experience in corporate retail project management; sourcing, developing, and operating retail stores on a national level. Other experience includes retail operations manager for Newell Brands’ technical apparel division, and the facilities manager for the Brattleboro Co-op.  Dan is also a volunteer for the Dummerston Fire Department.

Jessica Savage joined the Vermont Council on Rural Development staff in 2021 after 15 years in the public sector mainly in the natural resources and recreation management fields. She previously worked for the Vermont Dept. of Forests Parks and Recreation where she led the Vermont Outdoor Recreation Economic Collaborative (VOREC) and administered multiple state and federal grant programs. Her current work focuses on community-driven economic development initiatives including the Vermont Working Communities Challenge and Climate Economy programs. She has a Masters in Public Administration with a focus on water quality policy from UVM, is an avid outdoorsperson and a mom to two young children.

Christa Shute is the Executive Director of NEK Broadband. Prior to that, she served as a Staff Attorney for the NH Office of the Consumer Advocate. In that role, Christa worked electric, gas and water cases in front of the NH Public Utility Commission on behalf of residential ratepayers. Christa has two decades of experience in leadership in non-profit, and corporate entities. Her curiosity drives her to understand the complexity and nuance of situations so she can envision how to break through barriers and find win/win solutions. In addition to running her own design and manufacturing businesses, Christa has been the Vice President of Business Development for All Earth Renewables, the Director of Business Development and Financing for the Vermont Telecom Authority, and the Director of Targeted Implementation for Vermont Energy Investment Corporation (Efficiency Vermont). Christa Shute earned her JD, magna cum laude, in 2013 with certificates in Energy Law, Climate Law, and Dispute Resolution.

Senator Robert Starr (D) of Troy, Orleans County, was born in Hartford, Connecticut, on December 17, 1942, has lived in Troy since June 3, 1944. He is the president of Starr's United, Inc., d/b/a Starr's Transportation. He was educated in elementary schools in North Troy, Vermont; North Troy High School; and Vermont Technical College, Randolph, Vermont (associate degree in agriculture). Member of: Troy school board; O.E.N.S.U. school board; Troy zoning board and planning commission; Board of Civil Authority; Troy town moderator; North Country High School, moderator; Vermont State College trustee; Vermont Truck and Bus Association, director; Elks Club #2155, Newport; National Conference of State Legislatures. He has served in the Vermont Senate since 2005.

Sarah Waring is a native of Glover, Vermont, and is the USDA Rural Development State Director for Vermont and New Hampshire, appointed by President Biden in January 2022. Sarah most recently worked as Vice President for Grants and Community Investments at the Vermont Community Foundation. Previously, she worked at the Vermont Council on Rural Development, Farm and Wilderness Foundation, and the Sonoran Institute. Waring also worked as the Executive Director at the Center for an Agricultural Economy. In 2020, she served on the Governor's Task Force for Economic Mitigation and Recovery where she supported the development of a toolkit for Municipal Engagement for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Waring resides in central Vermont.

Meghan Wayland (they/them) is the Lead Organizer and Staff Director at Northeast Kingdom Organizing (NEKO). Since 2007, Meghan has worked in food and agriculture, movement building, and art, and they arrived at organizing after stints as a journalist, farmer, cook, and carpenter. They're a founding member of the Center for Grassroots Organizing and are passionate about storytelling, Land Back, and bass fishing.

Representative Terri Williams (R), was born in Concord, VT, and has lived in North Concord and Granby for most of her life.  She graduated from Concord High School, with two years at the St Johnsbury Academy Vocational Program and one year at New Hampshire College studying bookkeeping and business.  For ten-plus years Terri owned and operated Barnie’s Market in Concord.  She has served on the boards of directors for the Lyndon Institute, Fairbanks Federal Credit Union, and Northern Counties Home Health.  In her earlier years, Terri was a coach, athletic director, and 4-H leader.  She has served in the Vermont House of Representatives since 2021.

Convening Schedule 2023

Since the NEK Collaborative’s founding in the 1990s, our goal and purpose has been to forge and support connections across the Kingdom. We use collective advocacy and regionally-coordinated action to address challenges and improve the quality of life of all NEK residents.

Sector convenings are one way we share successes, identify challenges, and solve problems collaboratively. We'll host five convenings this spring, around the following issues:

Outdoor Recreation

The Northeast Kingdom is an incredible place to connect to nature and explore the array of outdoor recreation opportunities available in our region. Outdoor recreation is a backbone of tourism and a powerful economic driver in our region.

This meeting will be held virtually, at 10am on Tuesday, March 14th You do not have to be an expert in this area to attend. All are welcome.

Register→

Community Recreation

In the most rural region of the state, opportunities for community recreation and connection are essential. How can we support these opportunities across the towns and communities of the NEK?

This meeting will be held virtually, at 10am on Tuesday, April 4th You do not have to be an expert in this area to attend. All are welcome.

Register→

Small Business Support

Small businesses are the lifeblood of the NEK economy. How can we best support the businesses, the neighbors, that define our local economies and communities?

This meeting will be held virtually, at 1:30pm on Tuesday, April 4th. You do not have to be an expert in this area to attend. All are welcome.

Register→

Adult Education

There are so many adult education opportunities in the Kingdom! Our first convening on Adult Education on February 28th convinced us we needed another one. Please, join the conversation!

This meeting will be held virtually, at 10am on Tuesday, April 11th You do not have to be an expert in this area to attend. All are welcome.

Register→

Mental Health & Substance Abuse

Mental health challenges and substance misuse are a significant public health problem in the NEK, as they are elsewhere in Vermont. Organizations and individuals throughout the Kingdom provide services and support to those facing these challenges; how can their work be supported?

This meeting will be held virtually, at 10am on Tuesday, April 18th You do not have to be an expert in this area to attend. All are welcome.

Register→

NEK Day at the Statehouse '23 (Virtual)

A father and daughter approach the Montpelier Statehouse. The stride of the father and the joy of his child symbolize, we hope, the optimistic, forward-looking spirit of NEK Day.

Friday, January 27th | Agenda→ | Register→ | Submit topics→ | Google Calendar event→

We love the NEK! We choose to live and work in a region that enjoys stunning natural beauty, close-knit communities, and a vibrant culture.

Loving the NEK means addressing the challenges of the region, and there are many. We are the most rural and economically challenged region of Vermont, and our access to resources is limited compared to other regions.

The NEK Collaborative is a convening organization that acts as a unified voice for the NEK. We listen and talk to individuals and organizations all over the Kingdom to determine what's important to you and what challenges you face. We're committed to promoting civic and civil engagement across our region by connecting NEK residents with our representatives in Montpelier whenever possible.

NEK Day at the Statehouse is your chance to share your thoughts with our NEK Legislative Caucus.  We have identified five policy priorities this year to which NEK leaders will speak:

• Housing

• Workforce Development

• Transportation

• A Thriving Vermont State University with a continued vibrant presence in the NEK

• Mental Health and Substance Misuse

Housing

Housing affordability and availability remain a challenge in the Kingdom, as they are elsewhere in Vermont. Our elected representatives are well aware of this, and we'll share some insights on the challenges and some local solutions as well as hear more about legislative plans. Our featured housing speakers will be Jim Kisch, President and CEO of Passumpsic Bank, and Shawn Tester, CEO of Northern Vermont Regional Hospital

Workforce Development

NEK workers need access to training and development and job opportunities that meet their needs. NEK employers need more workers at all levels of skills and experience, and support in recruiting, developing, and retaining staff. Representative Michael Marcotte, Chair of the House Committee on Commerce and Economic Development, will discuss his committee's work. Julie Laforce, Co-Owner of Built by Newport, will speak from the perspective of a regional employer.

Transportation

NEK residents need safe, reliable, and affordable transportation options. We'll hear from Caleb Grant, Executive Director of Rural Community Transportation.

Vermont State University in the NEK

Mental health and substance misuse touches every aspect of life in the Kingdom. Joseph Forscher, Chief of Behavioural Health at NEK Human Services, will speak to ongoing efforts to address such problems in the NEK.

Mental Health and Substance Misuse

Retaining a robust higher education institution in the NEK is crucial to the regional economy, as well as the educational and career opportunities of NEK residents. We are encouraged by the plans for Vermont State University and look forward to updates from its VTSU President Dr. Parwinder Grewal.

This region-wide, cross-sector, virtual event is the only one of its kind in the Kingdom, and we hope you will join us!

NEK Day at the Statehouse

Friday, January 27: 12 Noon- 1:30 PM

Virtual Event: Register→ for Zoom link.

Do you see issues in the NEK you want addressed? Submit topics→ for consideration at NEK Day.

This is your chance to connect (virtually this year) with legislators and fellow NEKers to celebrate the region, share priorities, and learn what’s been happening at the state level.

Want to know what to expect? Visit our NEK Day 2022 Recap→ for a taste of what past years have had to offer.

NEK Together 2022

The biggest changes begin with the smallest and most collaborative actions. Thanks for coming.

The event is this Friday, November 11th. Here is a parking map→ of Burke Mountain→.

NEK Together will be the Northeast Kingdom Collaborative’s third region-wide convening, and certainly our most ambitious. These past three years have been historic periods of radical social, infrastructural, and economic change in the Kingdom. Much work has been done toward the priorities identified in our 2020 Recovery Action Plan, and much work remains to be done.

The people, businesses, and organizations of the NEK continue to face challenges like housing, business development, connectivity, and community engagement with energy and resilience. We look forward to convening with all of you to keep moving this work forward.

NEK Together 2022

NEK Together 2022 is an all-day community summit scheduled for Friday, November 11th, in-person at Burke Mountain hotel and conference center. Lunch and refreshments are included!

You can register→ up until the last minute, but only those registered Wednesday, November 9th will receive a custom nametag.

How can we:

1. Build and foster community-based leadership and engagement that brings NEK residents together to achieve goals and solve problems in their communities and in our region?

2. Create and maintain a healthy civic discourse in the NEK, with open lines of communication with our NEK Legislative Caucus and other town and local officials, and opportunities for citizens to exercise their voices and make contributions to policy and initiatives?

3. Convene individuals and organizations (businesses, nonprofits, government entities) to support solutions to challenges in our priority areas of housing, workforce development, and others?

Let’s find out.

NEK Together Full Event Schedule (Agenda→)

9 AM - Conference Welcome

Jennifer Carlo, Northeast Kingdom Collaborative

9:15 AM - Plenary Panel:  Seizing The Moment- Updates from the Recovery Action  Plan and Looking Toward the Future

In 2020, the NEK Collaborative worked with individuals and organizations across the NEK to create our Recovery Action Plan, built around five priorities:  Broadband, Housing, Education, Small Business Support, and Community Vitality.

Much has been accomplished through the collective struggle of the pandemic, and the NEK as a region drew together to address our mutual challenges and support each other through the experience.  We find ourselves now in a singular moment in time, to continue our healing and leverage unprecedented resources and opportunities in new ways toward a bright regional future.

This panel will discuss the progress made on the priorities of the Recovery Action Plan and our next steps into the future.

Facilitator: Sarah Waring, USDA Rural Development State Director, Vermont and New Hampshire

Broadband- Christa Shute, Executive Director, NEK Broadband & Rob Fish, Deputy Director, Vermont Broadband

Housing- Patrick Shattuck, Executive Director, Rural Edge 

Education- Tom Lovett, Retired Headmaster, St. Johnsbury Academy, and  Member, Vermont State Board of Education/Representative from NVU

Small Business Support- David Snedeker, Executive Director, NVDA

Community Vitality- Jody Fried, Executive Director, Catamount Arts

10:45 AM - Breakout Sessions

A Vision for Vermont State University

Dr. Parwinder Grewal, President, Vermont State University

Dr Parwinder Grewal became the inaugural president of Vermont State University in July 2022.  VTSU will combine and build upon the history of Castleton University, Northern Vermont University, and Vermont Technical College.  Pending final approval of NECHE, VTSU will become a single accredited institution on July 1, 2023. The new University is meant to increase the reach of learning opportunities for all learners, fueling Vermont’s economic pipeline, and creating opportunities for learners of all ages.  Join this session to learn more about President Grewal’s vision for what will be the first statewide, hybrid institution in the United States.

Racial Literacy, A Healing Practice

Sha’an Mouliert, The Root Social Justice Center

Until the last few years, you’d hear, “We have made so much progress; I don’t think racism is a problem anymore”. How often have we heard, “I’m not racist”, or “I have Black and Brown friends?”  Most people fail to recognize or act on racial micro-aggressions because the stress of negotiating such conflicts is extremely high due to fears of incompetence, public exposure, and accusation. This introductory workshop will explore the challenges facing people of color living in Vermont. Using cultural humility practices, participants will be introduced to a foundational understanding to develop their racial literacy skills.

Raising Voices:  Learning about Community Organizing

Meghan Wayland, Lead Organizer, Northeast Kingdom Organizing (NEKO)

Framing Challenging Conversations Through the Lens of the Arts

Amy Cunningham, Deputy Director, Vermont Arts Council Jody Fried, Executive Director, Catamount Arts and Film Ryan Newswanger, Director of Programs, Vermont Humanities Council Molly Stone, NEK Zone Agent, Vermont Creative Network

Post-Pandemic Workforce and Business Leadership

Julie Laforce, Owner and Director of Organizational Development, Built by Newport, Abby Long, Executive Director, Kingdom Trail Association, Johnny Lotti, Co-Owner, Cafe Lotti, Steven Wright, President and General Manager, Jay Peak

12:00 PM - Lunch/Tabling/Weaving Project

1:15 PM - Breakout Sessions

NEK Caucus Legislative Forum

Senator Jane Kitchel (D)- Caledonia/Orange District, Chair, Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Robert Starr (D)- Essex/Orleans District, Chair, Senate Agriculture Committee, Representative Scott Beck (R)- Caledonia-3, House Committee on Ways and Means, Representative Michael Marcotte (R)- Orleans-2, Chair, House Committee on Commerce and Economic Development

Join some of our veteran legislators from the NEK Caucus for a conversation about priorities and challenges in Montpelier in the coming session. What are the issues important to NEKers, and what can we anticipate in the coming year?

Moving Stories

Sha’an Mouliert, The Root Social Justice Center

Stories have been a method of documenting and experiencing the human condition throughout the ages. In this problem-solving workshop, participants will experience a sense of agency and accomplishment through storytelling. They will have the opportunity to creatively explore their strengths, identify their challenges and develop a strategy to overcome obstacles.

Strategies to Address the Housing Challenges in the NEK

Dawn Cross, HomeOwnership Center Director, RuralEdge, Jim Kisch, CEO, President, Passumpsic Bank, Evan Oleson, NEK VT Program Manager, Northern Forest Center, Patrick Shattuck, Executive Director, RuralEdge

Housing is a challenge throughout Vermont, and especially in the NEK. Many organizations in the Kingdom are working on initiatives to increase affordable housing stock and create economic development in our communities.

Creating Community Space- NEK Outdoor Recreation Community Hub

Abby Long, Executive Director, Kingdom Trail Association, Brooke Pierce, Operations Director, Kingdom Trail Association

Learn how Kingdom Trails is putting into action the NEK Collaborative’s Tri-Sector Plan, to enhance economic growth through rural community hubs. We believe that by investing in infrastructure improvements to create outdoor recreation-friendly communities, we can connect outdoor recreation assets to other parts of the economy, including the creative and food sectors. KT will share how their USDA-funded Capacity Study led them to-USDA funded master planning for an NEK Outdoor Recreation Community Hub to elevate economic development, enhance visitor experiences, improve residents’ quality of life, and support the local workforce.  

Get NEKed!  Using Destination Stewardship to Support Economic Opportunity 

Joe Short, Vice President, Northern Forest Center, Facilitator, Gillian Sewake, Director, St. Johnsbury Chamber of Commerce, Pam Sullivan, President and Creative Director, Sullivan Creative, Rick Ufford-Chase, Director, Newport City Downtown Development

What are the benefits of marketing and stewardship on a regional scale?  Recent collaborations have built on the work done in the NEK Collaborative’s 2018 Tri-Sector Report to build regional resources, and help chambers and businesses leverage those resources to help support regional businesses.  How do we collaborate to align messages, attract the right visitors, and multiply our individual efforts?  And how do we sustain these efforts?

ARPA Updates

Annie McLean, Community and Economic Recovery Specialist, Northeastern Vermont Development Association 

The Working Communities Challenge in the NEK

 Juliet Emas, Director, St. Johnsbury Community Hub

2:45 PM - Plenary Workshop:  Equitable Community Engagement

Sue McCormack, Business Development Leader and Co-Founder, The Creative Discourse Group

Transformed people transform organizations.

All of us are seeking ways to create equity, justice, and inclusion in our communities, and we need conversations and tools to do that.  How do we come together and work toward a more equitable culture?

Seeking Community Builders!

NEK Community Builders Program

The Northeast Kingdom Collaborative has always worked to connect the people who define our region. Through the Community Builders Program, we hope to plug the people who want to bring change into the networks, resources and ideas that get them there.

What IS the Community Builders Program?

The NEK Community Builders Program is a year-long collective learning program accessible to community builders of all kinds, whether you’re working, studying, volunteering or none of the above! Builders will gather every other month for facilitated collective learning. Between gatherings, Builders will conduct self-guided projects and research, engage and share learning with their own communities, and receive one-to-one coaching from experts across the NEK.

What would I do, as a Community Builder?

The experience of being a Community Builder has two sides: Practice and Understanding. As Builders, you will be conducting self-guided projects of a wide variety; a Builder could just as easily arrange a parade as they could restore a local landmark. Anyone who undergoes a project as a Community Builder can expect to:

• Learn and practice collaborative leadership and community engagement skills

• Build deep, lasting connections with a diverse group of people across the Northeast Kingdom, and

• Be compensated for their time and work!

Am I a Community Builder?

The short answer is: YES! Every single community in the Northeast Kingdom is different, and needs different Builders. This is why being a Community Builder can mean a lot of different things! If you:

• Want to make or strengthen impact in your community

• Are curious, and want to connect to and learn from others in the NEK

• Have lived experience you want to draw upon or share with others

• Have or want ties throughout the Northeast Kingdom

Then you’re already a candidate in our book!

If what you have read so far interests you, we want to hear from you- directly! For questions, ideas or nominations for someone you think would make a good community builder, we want you to email our Executive Director here at the Collaborative, Jen Carlo: Jennifer@NEKCollaborative.org→

This program is made possible by funding from the Tillotson Fund of the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation and the Vermont Community Foundation.

Students Speak on the Youth Experience in the NEK

The Event

On the morning of Friday, May 20th, 2022, highschool students from all over the Northeast Kingdom gathered (in front of their screens!) to attend the Northeast Kingdom Collaborative’s first ever Youth Convening.

For those familiar with the legacy of the NEK Collaborative’s work in the Kingdom, you’ll know what our convenings generally look like; regional leaders putting their heads together to discuss issues, advise one another’s projects and find middle ground for region-wide solutions. Housing, education, broadband and tourism, to name a few- all top-notch topics for sectors that the Kingdom continues to struggle with.

Yet the voices of the Collaborative’s partners are always informed by years of professional experience, leading and transforming their respective sectors as adults. What population has historically gone unheard at these conference rooms, zoom calls and cafe tables? The voices of youth in the Kingdom are due for representation- and the NEK Collaborative is their willing medium.

After a few guiding questions presented by the NEK Collaborative, conversation and experience-sharing took off. Here is what the youth of the NEK had to say about their experiences.

What have been some positive experiences of growing up in the NEK?

Students generally emphasized the strength of the relationships fostered in small town communities, between not only fellow students, but also those of teachers. In communities such as these, the youth feel the appreciation and support of their teachers strongly.

The NEK connection to the outdoors, too, was at the forefront of the student’s praises of the Northeast Kingdom. Both recreational connections to the land in the form of easily accessible trail systems and bodies of water, as well as educational opportunities, such as the Lake Region’s science pond, were placed at the forefront of the teenager’s recounted experiences.

What have been some negative experiences of growing up in the NEK?

The natural isolation of the Northeast Kingdom, however, could not go unnoticed in the youth’s recounted experiences. While the opportunities for naturalistic connection were strong, other activities, such as shopping, socialization with new faces and enjoying any diversity of foods were profoundly limited- particularly prior to students gaining mobile autonomy with their own car, which was, even then, limited by their distance. Moreover, while there were definite boons to small community life, extremely small class sizes served, at times, to deny students a peer group that shared their interests or priorities. Community events, such as Glover Day or the Danville fair, as well as community sports programs were named as events that were particularly effective at offsetting NEK isolation. 

The winter, it was agreed, was particularly desolate for students who were not satisfied spending their winters skiing, ice fishing or snowmobiling. Additional community events and spaces, such as winter fairs or indoor basketball courts, were named as potential balms to this ennui.

Moreover, there exists a gap in educational opportunities discussed; while some schools offered dozens of AP courses and college courses, other students found themselves exhausting their schools’ higher education options by the end of Junior year.

How has COVID-19 positively impacted your, or your community’s, experience?

By the account of the students, the experience of remote learning was, in fact, widely looked upon as a positive academic experience. One shared that they were capable of completing in three hours what had, during in person learning, taken seven. Another said they were “In a better place, academically, after COVID.” Additionally, by and large, it was felt that- due to the isolation and small size of the Northeast Kingdom communities- the local impacts of COVID-19 were not felt to be drastic.

How has COVID-19 negatively impacted your, or your community’s, experience?

The transition from grade to grade- particularly that as a student taking no AP/honors classes to one taking many, or else from middle to high school- was made all the more difficult by the tumult of transitioning to, and from, hybrid school models. Once the transition to the hybrid educational mode had been acclimated to, the primary loss was considered to be that of community spaces afforded by in-person schools; cafeteria lunches and hallways were missed- although even this has named silver linings, giving students more time to spend time with those who they consider their closest of friends. Of additional concern was the damage done by COVID-19 to the sense of the community in the NEK, one student saying, of their beloved community events, that “bringing things back has been harder than continuing”, expressing their concern for the return of community spirit in the post-covid normal.

Why would you return to, or remain in, the NEK?

The majority of attendees, having been raised in Vermont, did not intend to leave permanently, should their options afford a return. Reasons included natural beauty, family, small town spirit and the increasing possibility of having a career while working remotely. The sentiment was, broadly, that their post-high school years would be spent exploring and experiencing other ways of life, while their heart remained in the North of Vermont.

Why would you hesitate to return to, or remain in, the NEK?

Those who did not intend to stay in the Northeast Kingdom gravitated towards two main reasons: either they were repulsed by the issues they had experienced in the Northeast Kingdom as youth, being lack of social/community/entertainment activities in the winter and the geographic isolation in general, or those difficulties they foresaw in realizing their future careers while based out of the NEK. A lack of career opportunities with significantly fulfilling specificity resonated as a potential issue across the convening.

Reflecting on NEK Day

The Event

On Monday, the 24th of January, 2022, the Northeast Kngdom Collaborative hosted its fourth ever NEK Day at the State house. Senators, representatives, and over 150 registered attendees met to discuss the issues facing the kingdom today- as well as celebrate the Kingdom’s success stories from the past year.

U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy, whose family has deep roots in the NEK, kicked off the event with a message of support for NEK Day attendees: 

“I think most of you know how special the Northeast Kingdom is both to myself and to Marcelle. Like many Vermonters, we treasure the remarkable combination of natural beauty and tight-knit communities the Kingdom is celebrated for. The needs of the Kingdom communities are front and center in my work in washington. I strongly believe that enhancing life in rural Vermont is one of the keys to ensure our state has a real and vibrant future.”

This meeting- celebrations, presentations, and summations- was recorded, and is now available for public viewing, below.

Reflections

But for all its resilience and progress last year, the Kingdom remains disproportionately impacted by the social and economic disruption caused by the pandemic. 

Kingdom citizens work some of the longest average hours for the lowest average incomes in Vermont. The housing market is among the most susceptible to out-of-state buyers pricing out essential workers. The lack of access to high-quality child care and mental health care across the region is stark.

Last year the Northeast Kingdom Collaborative (NEKC) unveiled the NEK Recovery Action Plan which outlines clear, actionable strategies to address community-identified priorities. This year, we advocated for five top priorities to be addressed by legislation: Housing, workforce development, child care, mental healthcare and Northern Vermont University.

After Sen. Leahy's address on Monday Tom Lovett, board chair for the NEKC, shared updates on the strategies in the plan. Among them were significant steps toward equitable access to broadband, housing, child care and higher education, as well as new programs to support small businesses and community development projects.

Grant available for Community Project Development

NEK Project Development Initiative 2021-2022

OVERVIEW

The NEK Project Development Initiative seeks to advance community-supported projects that address a pressing community need by providing funding for professional project development services.

If your NEK business or organization could benefit from contracted services to advance your project, we want to hear from you.

The NEK Project Development Initiative seeks projects that:

• Address a clear community need (e.g., housing, child care, health care)

• Demonstrate community support

• Create or retain jobs in the NEK

• Have a clear beginning and end

• Require expertise or capacity that the business/organization doesn’t have on staff

ELIGIBILITY

Eligible businesses/organizations:

• Generate less than $1M in annual revenue

• Have fewer than 50 employees

• Are located within Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans County, Vermont

Eligible contract services include, but are not limited to, project management, general contracting, fundraising, feasibility studies, and other capacity building activities required to advance the project.

This initiative will not fund:

• Ongoing operations

• Professional services that displace existing or planned jobs within the organization

*The scope of work covered by the funding shall be completed within 6 months of receipt of funds. 

AWARD AMOUNT

Projects may apply for up to $7,500 to cover the cost of hiring contracted professional(s). 

USE OF FUNDS

The Northeast Kingdom Collaborative (NEKC) will release funds directly to selected awardees. Awardees are responsible for finding, hiring and paying contractors. The NEKC may be able to help make connections between awardees and contractors if desired.

HOW TO APPLY

The deadline to apply for this round of funding is Friday, November 5.  Some applicants may be invited to virtually present their proposed projects at NEK Connects, the region’s only cross-sector convening, on November 12.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This initiative is made possible in part by a Rural Business Development Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

NEK Women Lead Network

NEK Women Lead Network

NEK Women Lead is a unique and informal group experience designed to facilitate women forming professional and personal connections and mutually supporting each other. This circle is a space for rich, honest dialogue between women who want to help each other thrive and drive change. 

FORMAT

Our group will meet quarterly at a variety of NEK locations for food & fun. If we cannot meet in person safely, we will organize virtual gatherings.

At the first gathering, we’ll take time to get to know each other through facilitated activities, group orientation and potentially affinity spaces. Subsequent gatherings will be mostly unstructured networking over dinner and casual conversation.

PARTICIPANTS

NEK Collaborative is committed to fostering identity-diverse, inclusive spaces where folks feel free to be their authentic selves. The selection committee is invested in establishing a cohort of people representing marginalized identities and offering spaces of care, dignity and belonging for all participants. We believe that collaboration and community are enriched when individuals bring different identities and life experiences to the table.

Any resident of the Northeast Kingdom who identifies as a woman is encouraged to apply.

BENEFITS

1. A network of supportive women across the region working to make a positive impact in their communities

2. An opportunity to explore cross-sector partnerships to promote change in the NEK

3. Reflective, relational practices to take with you into your personal and professional lives

4. Access to the entire alumni network plus invitations to future network gatherings

This is not a training program, this is networking.

There’s no pressure to be productive or build skills. The goals for the network are:

• Build relationships

• Offer and receive support

• Float ideas & get feedback

• Enjoy time with other women

Cost: FREE 

2021-2022 Program Dates

Tuesdays: December 7, March 1, June 7, September 6, with possible additional gatherings to be announced.

Apply by Friday, November 12, 2021. Applicants will be notified by November 19. 

If you have any questions, contact us.

NEK Connects | 2021 Gathering

November 12: NEK Connects

Save the Date! November 12th is NEK Connects, the NEK Collaborative’s annual region-wide, cross-sector convening.

NEK Connects is the regional event of the year--if you’re an NEKer, this event is for YOU! Let’s come together to make new connections, develop leadership prowess, and take action to make real change. This year, NEK Connects is returning in an all-virtual format.*

Are you eager to join forces with fellow community builders across the region to share success stories, build skills and dig into the Kingdom’s most pressing challenges?

We at the NEK Collaborative have been working with partners across the NEK to identify priorities, advocate for positive change, and address a wide range of issues facing our region.

This year, the event will include:

• A panelled forum on the great rural housing discussion in the NEK

• A facilitated discussion on how to build equitable cultures in our workplaces, communities and beyond

• Shark Tank: The NEK Project Development initiative’s pitch opportunity for grant funding.

And so much more! Check out the Complete Schedule Here→

NEK Connects is the only region-wide annual event in the Northeast Kingdom, and it just wouldn’t be the same without you there. Join us?

Cost: $25**. Registration required.

*But not the awful Zoom-marathon kind of “all-virtual”. We promise excitement, interaction, and lots of dedicated away-from-screen time.

**We’re striving to make this event as accessible as possible. If the cost is a barrier to attendance, you can get the full ticket price covered by using discount code MYNEK21 at registration checkout.

Interested in Sponsoring NEK Connects?

NEK Connects has three different levels of sponsorship available, each with their own associated benefits. Check them out below!

SUPPORTER - $500

✓ Logo in program

✓ 2 complimentary registrations

✓ Promotion on social media

SUSTAINER - $1000

✓ Logo in program

✓ 3 complimentary registrations

✓ Promotion on social media

✓ Logo on sponsor banner at event

BENEFACTOR - $2500

✓ Logo in program

✓ 5 complimentary registrations

✓ Promotion on social media

✓ Logo on sponsor banner at event

✓ Spoken recognition at event

Check out the 2019 NEK Leads Event Summary for more information.

NEK Recovery Plan Update

NEK Recovery Action Plan

As the lead convener for our region, we at the NEK Collaborative have partnered with industry experts and community change-makers to outline the most feasible and impactful strategies to accelerate the recovery of the NEK in five priority areas.

If these are your priorities for our region and you want to advocate the strategies outlined below, sign on to the plan. Then contact your representatives—they want to know your vision for our region.

BROADBAND

Goal: Ensure affordable, high-speed internet for all NEK residents.

1. Increase visibility of and maintain public access to WiFi hotspots.

2. Maintain subsidies for internet service & provide access to equipment for low-income Vermonters.

3. Increase capacity to build-out a region-wide high-speed broadband network through direct grants, expanded VEDA broadband loans, and transfer of state-owned broadband assets.

HOUSING

Goal: Meet all current and prospective NEK residents’ housing needs.

1. Establish a regional housing commission to assess need and demand, coordinate housing partners, and leverage public and private investments to improve and develop affordable & market rate housing units.

2. Ensure financial support reaches low- to medium- income homeowners and renters and residents experiencing housing insecurity.

3. Pilot Family SASH model and social worker positions to expand integrated mental, physical health, substance abuse, social justice, and social supports to stabilize families.

EDUCATION

Goal: Reimagine a high-quality, sustainable birth to career educational system.

1. Increase Child Care Financial Assistance Program reimbursements to reflect the true cost of providing care.

2. Implement the Pupil Weighting Factors Report recommendations to ensure that all students receive substantial equality of educational opportunity throughout the State.

3. Bring state appropriation for the Vermont State College System in line with other New England states.

4. Conduct a study to identify the 1) educational needs of at-risk students and adults without high school diplomas, 2) barriers to existing programs, and 3) gaps in programs.

BUSINESS SUPPORT

Goal: Organize and promote structured business support for long-term recovery.

1. Provide direct financial assistance to small businesses, especially those who did not qualify for initial rounds of funding, and those in the hospitality and tourism sectors.

2. Create a network of NEK Recovery Navigators to connect businesses to technical assistance,  business and financial planning, grant and loan writing support.

3. Launch accounting & financial management technical assistance program for small businesses.

COMMUNITY VITALITY

Goal: Support cultural and civic institutions and practices that build community.

1. Provide bridge funding for nonprofit arts & cultural institutions that remain closed to the public or have significantly reduced operations.

2. Create Project Developer position to accelerate & support community recovery initiatives.

3. Increase capacity of backbone organization to grow and support culture & community building events & groups.

CAPACITY & COORDINATION

These priorities do not exist in a vacuum. The success of each initiative depends upon the success of the others. The plan itself isn’t enough; we need the people and the resources required to carry it out. Diverse leadership and region-wide coordination are the keys to affecting positive change in our sparse region.

We strive to be an inclusive & independent rural development hub that convenes people across sectors region-wide for the purpose of advancing a common vision. Our success depends on the engagement of ALL NEK residents, especially those who have been historically underrepresented, such as BIPOC, the LGBTQ+ community, young people, and people with lived experience of poverty. 

1. Build region-wide leadership capacity through an NEK Community Weavers Program that will provide training, funding and support to emerging community changemakers.

2. Increase capacity and ensure region-wide alignment by facilitating a regional cross-sector network to strengthen partnerships.

---

What does success look like?

Rural regions matter.

People invest in rural areas for their good food, clean water and energy, healthy soil, quality education & healthcare, and opportunities for all.

Policies work for rural.

Programs, funding formulas, and policy decisions acknowledge and address the evolving needs of rural populations.

People are engaged. 

With increased capacity in rural regions, businesses, nonprofits and community groups have the workforce & people power they need to succeed.

As we continue recovering and reaching toward vibrancy, the opportunities for systemic change have never been clearer or more within reach. The success of these strategies requires authentic partnership and efficient coordination. We invite partners, legislators, funders and community members to come together in this work, the results of which will be a healthier, happier region for everyone.

---

Support the Plan

Would you or your organization like to show your support for the NEK Recovery Action Plan? If these are your priorities for our region and you want to advocate the strategies outlined, sign on today!

Sign On Now →

NEK Recovery Action Plan Sign On

View the full plan →

---

Contact Our Representatives

If there’s a particular strategy in the plan you want to advocate, contact your representatives and let them know. In your outreach, consider including:

• Who you are and where you live

• A statement of support for the NEK Recovery Action Plan

• The specific strategy or strategies you support

• Why you support the strategy or strategies

Representatives want to know your vision for our region. They are representing YOU at the statehouse. Make your voice heard →

NEK Day @ the State House 2021

NEK Day @ the Statehouse 2021

With over 100 NEKers, nearly all of the region’s legislative representatives, and Lieutenant Governor Molly Gray in attendance, our third annual NEK Day @ the Statehouse, which took place online this year, easily fulfilled its purpose:

Bring residents and legislators together to celebrate and advocate for the Northeast Kingdom.

On Monday we unveiled our NEK Recovery Action Plan, which outlines strategies to address community-identified priorities. Throughout the week, we asked committee chairs to invite NEK advocates to testify on key issues like broadband, housing, education, business support, and community vitality.

Then on Friday, one hundred thirty-three of us gathered to celebrate our grit, share our challenges, and advocate our priorities with one unified voice.

Jaylin Garrett reminded us what our region accomplished last year when she praised the increase in WiFi hot spots, pivot to virtual schooling, and community support for those who are struggling.

Later she echoed Congressman Peter Welch and Lieutenant Governor Molly Gray, lamenting the region’s persistent challenges: insufficient cell and wifi service, struggling local businesses, lack of affordable housing, and cultural and racial prejudices. 

What made Jaylin’s comments particularly powerful? She’s in seventh grade.

Undaunted her placement in a breakout room with three adults whom she had never met before, she shared her thoughts freely. 

And she was not the only one! The Newark Street School 6th grade class joined us for our closing event on Friday, as well as four other students from the Kingdom East Virtual Academy. The students brought an uplifting energy of hope to the “room”:

Vincent Coutremarche praised the redistribution of food from local farmers to families who need it. Ava Rapkowicz celebrated new ways of participating in community events amidst isolation.

Harper Clark stuck around after the event ended to say “This was an amazing honor.”

Our Interim Director Tom Lovett, also a teacher, says he was moved by the youth presence and participation: “I was filled with hope.” 

As in so many areas of civic life, young people struggle to make their voices heard yet these young people share our collective concerns for the region and have ideas for making things better. They are not the future; they are the present.

Our non-partisan organization is dedicated to bringing ALL NEKers together to speak with one voice for a more prosperous region. Regardless of age, geography, race or politics, we are the Northeast Kingdom.

Now we get back to work, making sure your authentic voices are heard and your efforts are supported as we continue building a thriving NEK.

NEK Women Lead 2020

NEK Women Lead Network, 2020 - 2021

NEK Women Lead is a networking group for community-engaged women in the Northeast Kingdom. It is a unique and informal experience designed to facilitate women forming connections and mutually supporting each other. 

This circle is a space for rich, honest dialogue between women leaders who want to help each other thrive and drive change. Empowerment, authenticity, and vulnerability are key. 

At the first gathering, we’ll take time to get to know each other through facilitated activities and group orientation. Subsequent gatherings will be unstructured networking through dinner and casual conversation.

COVID-19 Update: Ideally, the group will meet quarterly at a variety of NEK locations for food & fun. If we cannot do so safely, we will organize virtual gatherings.

Cost: FREE

What will you walk away with?

1. An amazing network of women working to make a positive impact in their communities.

2. A toolbox of leadership & policy engagement strategies

3. An opportunity to explore cross-sector partnerships in innovative ways to create change in the NEK and beyond

4. Access to the entire alumni network via the directory and listserv, plus invites to future network gatherings

This is not a training program, this is networking.

This network’s express purpose is to help leading women connect with other women on an interpersonal level. There’s no pressure to be productive or build skills. The goals for the network are:

• Build relationships

• Offer and receive support

• Float ideas & get feedback

• Enjoy time with other women in leadership

Who is eligible to participate?

We want to hear from women leaders and aspiring leaders from a diverse set of backgrounds, work & personal experiences, across private, public and nonprofit sectors. We will make selections so that the network reflects a diverse cross-section of experience and expertise across the region. 21+ please.

How do I apply? 

Complete this application by October 23, 2020. Selected cohort members will be notified by October 30, 2020

2020-2021 Program Dates:

Tuesdays: November 17, February 16, May 18, August 17

For more information, contact Carey Crozier: carey@nekcollaborative.org

Front Porch Forum for Libraries

Are you a librarian or friend of the library? The NEKC is hosting a workshop dedicated to helping you use Front Porch Forum to increase connection and library engagement in your community.

Co-Founder of Front Porch Forum, Michael Wood-Lewis, will be one of the presenters and available during a Q & A session at the end of the workshop.

We'll cover:

• What Front Porch Forum is and how it's changed

• The technical side: how to actually use the tool

• Front Porch Forum success stories from NEK libraries

• Best ways to use Front Porch Forum for your library

After the presentation, we'll break into groups to share ideas and get feedback before finishing up with a Q & A.

What: Front Porch Forum Training for Libraries
Who: Librarians & community members
When: Sept. 29 | 10a - 11a
Where: Virtually, via Zoom
How much: FREE

If you can make it, RSVP here →

2019 - 2020: It's been a BIG year!

Wow -- this year has been BIG. 

As we wrapped up the fiscal year and took a close look at everything we've done, we can't help but be extremely proud of our region. In the wake of a global pandemic and mounting racial tension nationwide, new and established leaders from every corner stepped up to support residents of the Northeast Kingdom.

The NEKC's mission is to improve the quality of life for all residents of the Northeast Kingdom through coordinated economic and community development.

As the neutral, non-partisan facilitator, our role is bringing communities together to address fundamental challenges and develop plans that lead to direct and practical results. Last year, our planned focuses were:

• Advancing economic development through the intersection of creative, recreational and food sectors

• Advancing the next generation of leadership in the Northeast Kingdom

Additionally, we pivoted as necessary to include:

• Coordinating regional responses to COVID-19

• Racial justice work

Take a look at the full report for details and get in touch if you'd like to learn more and get involved.

NEK Recovery Plan

The devastating effects of the COVID-19 crisis have illuminated the Northeast Kingdom’s most pressing issues. With increased community engagement and funding, we can seize this opportunity to manifest our shared vision for a vibrant, thriving Northeast Kingdom.

As the lead convener for our region, we at the NEK Collaborative have partnered with key thought leadership in the region to articulate this series of immediate strategies for community and economic recovery.

Through extensive expert interviews, we’ve outlined the most feasible and impactful action steps to accelerate the recovery of the Northeast Kingdom in five priority areas:

1. Broadband: Ensure affordable, high-speed internet for all NEK residents.

2. Housing: Meet all NEK residents’ housing needs.

3. Education: Reimagine a high-quality, sustainable birth to career educational system.

4. Business Support: Organize and promote structured business support for long-term recovery.

5. Cultural & Civic Infrastructure: Reinvigorate the cultural and civic infrastructure of the NEK.

The following steps are just the beginning. With our eye on long-term systemic change, we propose these short-term projects as a springboard for continued action.

Broadband

1. Install fixed wireless projects as short-term solutions to be completed in 2020. Partner: NEK Community Broadband CUD

2. Maintain subsidies for internet service & device purchase for low-income Vermonters. Partner: Vermont Rural Education Collaborative

3. Fully fund build-out of a regions-wide last mile high-speed broadband network through a combination of federal and state grants, loans, private investment and bonding. Partner: NEK Community Broadband CUD

Housing

1. Designate and/or build permanent, year-round supportive housing to address those struggling with chronic homelessness. Partner: RuralEdge

2. Expand integrated mental, physical health, and social supports that can stabilize families and prevent future homelessness. Partner: Northeast Kingdom Community Action (NEKCA)

3. Initiate time-limited rental/mortgage assistance program for households earning up to 80% of median income. Partner: RuralEdge

Education

1. Increase Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP) reimbursement rates for early childcare programs to reflect the increased cost of providing care during this time. Partner: Vermont legislature

2. Conduct a community child care needs assessment to identify new/emerging child care challenges and develop solutions. Partner: Building Bright Futures

3. Bring state appropriation for the Vermont State College system up to $30 Million to be in line with other New England states. Partner: Vermont legislature

Business Support

1. Provide direct financial assistance to small businesses for fixed cost expenses (rent, mortgage payments, utilities, inventory, and other essential operating expenses).
   Partner: Vermont legislature and Vermont Community Foundation

2. Assign NEK Recovery Guides who would provide technical assistance, business and financial planning, grant and loan writing support, and business support to help businesses successfully re-emerge from the crisis. Partner: NEK Small Business Technical Assistance Network

3. Fund shovel-ready municipal capital projects to restart jobs & construction. Partner: Individual municipal partners

Cultural & Civic Infrastructure

1. Provide bridge overhead funding for 12--18 months for arts and cultural institutions that are unable to reopen yet. Partner: Catamount Arts (NEK Zone Agent for VT Creative Network)

2. Develop best practices guide and coaching to help towns develop recovery plans. Partner: Northeast Kingdom Collaborative

3. Provide public funding to put artists and creative economy back to work. Partner: Catamount Arts (NEK Zone Agent for VT Creative Network)

These recommendations are interdependent and will have the greatest impact when implemented together.

We invite partners, legislators, funders and all community members to join us in this work, the results of which will be a healthier, happier region for everyone. We’re calling for a commitment to authentic partnership and efficient coordination to ensure these plans are noticed, funded and carried out. 

Through ongoing revision and reflection, this strategic action plan will serve as a model for affecting systemic change to solve our region’s most pressing obstacles. 

View Pull Plan →

NEK Collaborative Board of Directors

• Kathy Austin, President and CEO, Community National Bank

• Dr. Elaine Collins, President, Northern Vermont University

• Nick D'Agostino, Executive Director, Rural Community Transit

• Jon Freeman, President, Northern Community Investment Corp.

• Jody Fried, Executive Director, Catamount Arts

• Jeanne Gervais, President, Island Pond Chamber of Commerce

• Joe Kasprzak, Ast. Town Manager, Town of St. Johnsbury

• Jim Kisch, President and CEO, Passumpsic Bank

• Julie Laforce, Owner; Dir. of Organizational Dev., Built by Newport

• Abby Long, Executive Director, Kingdom Trails

• Tom Lovett, Headmaster, St. Johnsbury Academy

• Patrick Shattuck, CEO, RuralEdge

• David Snedeker, Executive Director, Northeastern Vermont Development Assoc.

• Shawn Tester, CEO, Northern Vermont Regional Hospital

• Steve Wright, President and General Manager, Jay Peak Resort

• NEK Collaborative Advisory Members

• Suzanne Legare Belcher, Field Service Director, VT Agency of Human Services

• Ben Doyle, Ast. State Director VT/NH, USDA Rural Development

• Tim Tierney, Director of Business Recruitment, VT Agency of Commerce

• Sarah Waring, Vice President for Grants and Community Investments, VT Community Foundation

The Northeast Kingdom Collaborative (NEKC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a vibrant, thriving Northeast Kingdom of Vermont. For more than 20 years, the NEKC has been working to improve the quality of life for all residents of the NEK through coordinated economic and community development. We do this by (1) building a common vision for the region through community convenings (2) supporting collaboration to achieve collective action on shared goals and (3) connecting people and projects to resources.

Thank you!

Thank you to the following industry experts who contributed their feedback and advice: 

• Suzanne Legare Blecher, Field Services Director, Vermont Agency of Human Services

• John Castle, Superintendent, North Country Supervisory Union

• Amanda Cochrane, Executive Directory, Umbrella

• Amy Cunningham, Deputy Director, Vermont Arts Council

• Catherine Cusack, Executive Director, Green Mountain Farm-to-School

• Xusana Davis, Executive Director of Racial Equity, State of Vermont

• Meg Burmeister, Executive Director, NEK Council on Aging

• Rob Fish, Rural Broadband Technical Assistance Specialist, Vermont Department of Public Service

• Leah Hollenberger, Development and External Relations Officer, Northern Vermont University

• Heidi Krantz, Small Business Advisor, VT Small Business Development Center

• Ann Lawless, HEAT Squad Northeast Kingdom Outreach Coordinator, Neighborworks of Western Vermont

• Chelsea Bardot Lewis, Senior Philanthropic Advisor, Vermont Community Foundation

• Margaret Maclean, Executive Director, Vermont Rural Education Collaborative

• Janet McLauglin, Chief Operating Officer, Let’s Grow Kids

• Linda Michniewicz, Caledonia, Essex and Orleans Area Regional Coordinator, Building Bright Futures

• Sha’an Mouliert, Racial Equity trainer

• NEK Community Broadband Communication Union District including Evan Carlson, Kristen Fountain, and Nicolas Anzalone

• Jenna O’Farrell, Executive Director, NEKCA

• Grace Oedel, Executive Director, NOFA-VT

• Monique Priestley, Space on Main

• Jon Ramsey, Executive Director, Center for an Agricultural Economy

• Brian Ricca, Superintendent, St. Johnsbury School District

• Rebecca Sanborn, Community Workshop

• Joe Short, Vice President, Northern Forest Center

• Vermont Council on Rural Development including Jenna Koloski, Jon Copans, & Nick Kramer