Present
Wednesday, November 5th 2025
Brunch-Style - 10am t0 12pm
The Southwestern Vermont Chamber invites the region to celebrate those that make up the Heart of The Shires - our nonprofit and community leaders! This event will provide connections, networking and celebratory conversations with those in attendance.
The 3rd annual Heart of The Shires Brunch encourages and recognizes leaders in nonprofit, social, governmental and community positions, while highlighting the many accomplishments in community building, population health, civic service and more!
Presented at the conclusion of the brunch the Southwestern Vermont Chamber & Presenting Sponsors Coggins Auto Group and Fidium Business will hand out the Heart of The Shires award recognizing the community organization of the year, the Community Leadership award, and the Lindy Lynch Volunteer of the Year award.
Location
Park McCullough Carriage Barn
1 Park St
North Bennington, VT
Schedule of Events
● 10am - 10:30am: Arrival and networking
● 10:30am - 11am: Brunch and Welcome
○ Welcome from the SWVT Chamber, our venue hosts, and sponsors!
● 11am - 11:30am: Keynote
● 11:30am - 11:45am: Awards
● 11:45am - 12pm: Ongoing networking and conclusion
Brunch By POWERS MARKET
Quiche Assortment
Meat, veggie and gluten-free options available
Bacon & Caramelized Onion
Spinach, Feta & Peppers
Broccoli, Tomato & Cheddar
Ham & Swiss
Assorted Pastries
Chocolate Croissants
Cherry Cheese Danish
Morning Glory Muffins
Fruit Salad
Coffee, Natural Juices & Herbal Tea Station
2025 Keynote: CHELSEA BARDOT LEWIS of VBSR
Chelsea Bardot Lewis is the Executive Director of Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility, where she champions business as a force for good. With a deep commitment to Vermont's business community, she brings expertise in social enterprise, impact investing, and public policy.
Before joining VBSR, Chelsea served as COO of Working Fields, leading the company through a period of significant growth and impact. She was instrumental in scaling operations, securing $3 million in impact capital, and doubling revenue within three years. Prior to that, she managed an integrated investment and grantmaking portfolio at the Vermont Community Foundation and led business development efforts at the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, supporting Vermont businesses and nonprofits to grow and thrive.
Chelsea lives in Waterbury with her husband Nate and their two energetic and curious boys, Jack and Will.
HEART OF THE SHIRES AWARD
Presented to an individual who exemplifies service and leadership in the community space.
2023 RECIPIENT:LORNA MATTERN OF UNITED COUNSELING SERVICES
2024 RECIPIENT: JACKLYN MATTS
COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AWARD
Presented to a community organization who has gone above and beyond to drive change and inspire others through their mission, vision and values.
2023 RECIPIENT: BENNINGTON COUNTY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY!
2024 RECIPIENT: VNA & HOSPICE OF THE SOUTHWEST REGION
THE LINDY LYNCH VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD
Presented to an individual who embodies the spirit of the late Lindy Lynch, a true chamber champion and volunteer, in their service and dedication to community.
2023 RECIPIENT: WENDY CHENAILLE
2024 RECIPIENT: ANALEE PATEL
Thank you additional supporters and sponsors
