"Local government—and local democracy in America—is one of the most well-coordinated and most successful volunteer efforts in the history of the world."
But there's no question that government leadership is getting more complicated. Even at the local level, you see fewer people wanting to take on this challenge, "...and that's concerning," notes Ted Brady, executive director of the Vermont League of Cities and Towns. In this brief, find three actions you can take to expand Vermont's leadership pool, including more women, people of color, LGBTQ+ candidates, and others who are under-represented.
Vermont needs additional housing of all types. An important piece of the puzzle is the creation of homeownership opportunities for the missing middle—buyers who don't qualify for income-restricted housing programs but can't afford market-rate homes. Philanthropy can help preserve Vermont's high homeownership rate with strategies that target middle income buyers.
Read the brief "Meeting in the Middle: How philanthropy can expand access to homeownership" »
Recidivism is the tendency of a person convicted of a crime to reoffend. In Vermont, over 40 percent of people released from correctional facilities go back on new convictions or violations within three years. Philanthropy can disrupt this destructive cycle and help set up people for success after incarceration.
Read the brief "Another Chance: How philanthropy can reduce recidivism " »
On July 26th, the Vermont Community Foundation’s Insight Hub hosted a webinar that examined the future of farming in Vermont, including strategies to build new markets and reduce reliance on conventional dairy. Here are some highlights from the conversation and tips for charitable individuals who want to help support a strong and resilient agricultural sector.