Vermont Council on Rural Development names Kim Rupe first development and communications associate

The non-partisan Vermont Council on Rural Development (VCRD) has named Kim Rupe of Poultney as its first development and communications associate, the organization announced Feb. 17. The role will help VCRD share programming and successes, highlight the excellent work and powerful stories of local leaders in rural communities across the state, and help lead fundraising efforts to sustain and grow VCRD’s programs and impact.

VCRD is a nonprofit organization established in 1992 that is dedicated to the support of the locally-defined progress of Vermont’s rural communities.

For the past several years, Kim Rupe has worked at the Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region (CEDRR), an organization that supports economic development, strategic initiatives, and outreach in Rutland County. Rupe has had significant roles related to workforce challenges, recruitment, and economic development, and most recently had a leadership role in Rutland County’s ongoing Regional Marketing Initiative — Real Rutland.

She is a fourth generation Vermonter who was drawn to this work after deep engagement with a VCRD community visit as a resident of Poultney following the closure of Green Mountain College.

“VCRD was looking for an outstanding candidate who shared our passion for telling the incredible stories we see in towns across the state, creating opportunities for current and emerging leaders who make Vermont communities such vital and dynamic places to live, and strengthening the foundation of our organization and programming,” the organization stated. “After a competitive search process, we are thrilled to have Kim joining the team and bringing her talent, passion for the success of rural communities, and long experience living and working in Vermont.”