Building the Future of Southwestern VermonT

For more than a century, the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce has helped shape the economic life of our region — supporting businesses, advocating for growth, and strengthening the community spirit that defines the Shires.

Now, as we look toward the next decade, we are taking a bold step forward.

After many years of leadership, partnerships, and a shared commitment to progress, we are proud to introduce the Southwestern Vermont Chamber Foundation — a charitable organization dedicated to accelerating opportunity, investment, and long-term vitality across Southwestern Vermont.

A Decade of Vision. A New Chapter of Impact.

Ten years ago, our leadership stood before Chamber members and promised that together, we would do big things. Over the past decade, that promise has taken shape through resilient leadership, expanded programs, regional partnerships, and a renewed belief in what this community can accomplish.

Today, that vision evolves.

The Southwestern Vermont Chamber Foundation exists to meet the moment — to respond to challenges and opportunities that require deeper investment, broader collaboration, and long-term solutions that extend beyond traditional Chamber work.

Why a Foundation?

The Foundation exists for one reason: to accelerate progress in ways the Chamber alone cannot.

As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the Foundation enables us to:

Attract philanthropic investment and tax-deductible gifts
Secure state and federal grant funding
Develop innovative education, workforce, and leadership programs
Support research, data, and regional insight
Strengthen long-term community reinvestment

This structure allows donors, businesses, families, and partners to invest directly in the future of Southwestern Vermont — with clarity, confidence, and measurable impact.

Our Focus Areas

The Southwestern Vermont Chamber Foundation is committed to advancing the region through five core impact areas:

Workforce Development & Talent Attraction

Supporting skills training, career pathways, and targeted relocation strategies that attract and retain families and professionals.

Entrepreneurship & Business Vitality

Expanding access to education, mentorship, and programs to support new and growing businesses.

Destination Marketing & Regional Identity

Strengthening the regional “Shires” brand through storytelling, tourism promotion, and year-round visitor engagement.

Leadership & Community Capacity

Investing in leadership development for emerging professionals, nonprofit leaders, and civic volunteers.

Research, Data & Regional Insight

Leveraging tools like cutting-edge technology and regional research to inform smart decisions for employers, municipalities, and partners.

Leadership & Stewardship

The Foundation is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors committed to strong governance, responsible stewardship, and lasting regional impact:

Chairperson: Shannon McLenithan
Vice Chair: Caryn Packard
Director: Ahmad Yassir
Director: JJ Williams

Together, they bring experience, accountability, and vision — ensuring the Foundation’s work remains mission-driven and community-focused.

Current Priorities

The Foundation will focus on building, listening, and laying the groundwork for long-term impact by:

Establishing strong operational and financial systems
Conducting research to identify the region’s most pressing challenges and opportunities
Launching entrepreneurial education and workforce programming
Expanding destination marketing and regional storytelling
Hosting community convenings to foster collaboration and shared solutions