New Vermont Community Foundation grant supports health and wealth building in underserved communities impacted by racial injustice
Health, wellbeing, and economic stability are deeply connected. Access to culturally responsive wellness remic mobility all contribute to healthier individuals, stronger families, and thriving communities
Many communities impacted by racial injustice continue to experience persistent disparities in health outcomes and economic opportunity. Community-led solutions play an essential role in addressing these challenges by strengthening resilience, expanding opportunity, and creating lasting change.
Thanks to the generosity of fundholders and donors, the Vermont Community Foundation (VCF) is launching the Health, Wellness, & Economic Empowerment grant to support organizations and programs serving Vermont communities impacted by racial injustice. The grant will invest in efforts that promote healthy lifestyles, mental wellbeing, workforce development, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and wealth-building.
Funding is available for both new and established programs that respond to the needs and priorities of these communities. Eligible organizations should demonstrate a strong track record of serving these populations and advancing equitable opportunities.
The VCF intends to award six to eight grants of up to $50,000, paid over two years. First-time grantseekers are encouraged to apply. VCF will provide language translation services to applicants upon request. Applicants are also welcome to submit their application in their preferred language, or through alternative formats such as video or audio recordings.
Letters of interest will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 8, 2027. Requests for language translation services must be submitted by November 16, 2026. Following a review of all letters of interest, a smaller number of organizations will be invited to submit full applications. The VCF anticipates notifying applicants of final grant decisions by the end of May 2027.
For complete eligibility requirements, program guidelines, and application information, visit vermontcf.org/health-wellness-economic-empowerment-grant
Understanding the war in Iran
Green Mountain Academy welcomes Williams College Professor Magnús T. Bernhardsson to talk about understanding the current war in Iran in the context of the region’s complex history. The talk will take place on Thursday, November 12 from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. in the Southern Vermont Arts Center’s new Van Degna Gallery and online via live stream. What is going on in the Persian Gulf? What should be kept in mind to assess and comprehend the key developments in the Middle East? In this talk, the key aspects of Iranian history and culture will be highlighted to better gain a deeper understanding of how the Islamic Republic of Iran is organized, how its policies are justified, and how it views its interests in the region. Given the economic and political stakes in this war and in the region, the developments in the Persian Gulf impacts us all. Yet all too often over the last 50 years, Iranian culture and history has been misunderstood or underappreciated, which has led to serious miscalculations with costly consequences for us all. This program is free and open to all – or pay what you wish to support Green Mountain Academy at a level that feels right to you. For more information or to register, please call 802-867-0111 or visit greenmtnacademy.org.
VTSU to receive $3M to strengthen enrollment, student success and workforce readiness
Vermont State University (VTSU or Vermont State) has been awarded a federal Title III Strengthening Institutions Program (SIP) grant to expand access to higher education, improve student success, and strengthen workforce readiness. The university will receive over $1.7 million in first-year funding, with a total of $3 million expected over five years.
The funding will support a comprehensive, university-wide initiative designed to help more students enroll in and complete college, and develop the skills and credentials needed to succeed in the workforce. Only rural-serving institutions were eligible to apply, a qualifier Vermont State University meets, especially with its four rural campuses, large percentage of its student body composed of in-state students, and the fact that sixty-six percent of Vermont residents live in rural areas, according to the U.S. 2020 census.
“One of my top goals as Vermont State University’s president is to create more learning opportunities for our students that are flexible and accessible,” stated university president Sherry Kollmann. “More than half of our student population is made up of adult learners, first-generation students, or those of modest family income, and the vast majority face a barrier to accessing their education, whether that be geographic, financial, or otherwise. When we bring together academic programs, student support services, and workforce partnerships in ways that make sense for our learners, our students are better served and are more likely to achieve their career and educational goals.”
Jennifer Jones, Assistant Vice President of Academic Support and Educational Opportunity Programs at Vermont State, added, “this initiative is designed to increase enrollment and the ability for students to attain industry-recognized, stackable credentials. At the same time, our focus is on improving student retention, strengthening workforce readiness, and maximizing career outcomes for graduates. We are excited to receive this funding and look forward to putting it to good use in service of our students.”
For more information about Title III at VTSU, contact Jennifer Jones at Jen.Jones@VermontState.edu.
An Immigration Story: A Cultural and Linguistic Journey
Green Mountain Academy welcomes Andrea Honigsfeld, professor emerita in the School of Education and Human Services at Molloy University, to talk about her own immigration story. The talk will take place on Tuesday, November 17 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Manchester Community Library. Through personal storytelling, photographs, and music, this presentation weaves together the experience of immigration and the language, culture, and identity questions that shaped it. Andrea’s story invites audience members to reflect on their own experiences, celebrate what makes each of us unique, and the power of finding true belonging. This program is free and open to all – or pay what you wish to support Green Mountain Academy at a level that feels right to you. For more information or to register, please call 802-867-0111 or visit greenmtnacademy.org.
