SoVT Get on Board

SoVermont Get on Board is a course designed to offer practical skills for effective and active participation in the civic life of Southern Vermont communities. Learn from statewide experts and longtime local leaders, get big-picture knowledge to inspire and inform, and most importantly, find connections to support your journey.

We have trained 45 active and aspiring local leaders from Pownal to Vernon, and Winhall to Dummerston, and everywhere in between. “Graduates” are exploring plans to run for town office, protect local wetlands, and implement strategic planning protocols with their nonprofit boards.

Each session takes place in a different Southern Vermont community. Topics covered include:

Session 1: Working Together as a Community
Session 2: Local Government in Vermont
Session 3: Nonprofit Organizations; Inclusion and Community
Session 4: Taking Action from the Course

Throughout the course, participants determine what opportunities they might like to explore, with follow-up support and helpful connections from BDCC staff.

2025 Program Overview

4 Sessions, September- November 2025

dates subject to final confirmation

$200; scholarships are available as part of application;

town sponsorships may also be available -- indicate interest in your application. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis through September 16, 2025.

Unit 1: Working Together as a Community

- What are the conditions for creating community?

- What are the roles of local government, nonprofit organizations, and local groups in building community and community project stewardship?

Saturday, 9/20, 10:00am - 3:00pm (location: Newfane, Williamsville Hall - lunch provided

Unit 3: Nonprofit Organizations; Inclusion and Community

- Roles and responsibilities of a nonprofit board

- Inclusion in the Community (Workshop/Discussion)

Saturday, 10/25, 10:00am - 3:00pm Location: Wilmington, Old School Community Center - lunch provided

Beyond

- One-on-one follow-up

- Personalized introductions to projects and leaders in your town

- Cohort meetups

Unit 2: Local Government in Vermont

- Everything you wanted to know about Vermont’s local government (but were afraid to ask)

- Local Leaders Panel -- how do you serve, what was your path to local leadership, and what does it mean to you?

Saturday, 10/4, 10:00am - 3:00pm

Location: Manchester, Town Hall - lunch provided

Unit 4: Taking Action from the Course

- Community Meeting Experience Reflection

- Digging Deeper: Community Conversations

- Making a plan to move forward with what you've learned

Saturday, 11/8

Location: Main Street Arts, Saxtons River - lunch provided

Learn More