As we begin to navigate the pandemic's long-term impacts on employment, now is the time to promote education and training programs that lead to Vermont's promising jobs. In 2020, the Community Foundation and its partners granted more than $3.4 million to college and career training initiatives, which boosted enrollment at a time when enrollment nationally was in decline and provided a valuable framework for pandemic-era public policy. On June 22nd, 2021, the Community Foundation hosted a short webinar to discuss how grantmakers can support college and career training in ways that drive more equity and resilience in Vermont. Speakers included:
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.