The Future of Vermont action team is launching a statewide youth opportunity initiative, facilitated by the Vermont Council on Rural Development, to embark on a deep engagement process to draw input from youth, community members, parents, advocates, municipal leaders, educators, school administrators, business owners, policy experts, and others to identify strategies and action to advance youth opportunity, aspiration, and community connection.
In 2021, the Vermont Council on Rural Development (VCRD) built The Vermont Proposition which outlines a bold proposal to set our state on a trajectory toward success, vitality, and prosperity for the next 30 years based on input from thousands of Vermonters. A diverse group of 20 leaders convened and facilitated by VCRD, known as the Future of Vermont Action Team, have been further defining and implementing the 10 elements of the Vermont Proposition.
The Vermont youth opportunity initiative emerged through the Vermont Proposition effort and was identified by the Action Team as a transformational opportunity that will make an impact and lay a strong foundation for the implementation work of other Proposition areas ahead. A youth opportunity advisory group of statewide leaders and youth members has developed a statewide engagement process and will review findings and make action recommendations following feedback.
Starting April 20 in the Upper Valley region, then May 23 in the northwest region, and continuing in different regions across the state — with support and guidance from the advisory group — the Vermont Council on Rural Development will convene, manage, staff, and facilitate a series of community forums, youth forums, and stakeholder interviews to understand the current landscape of policy and program initiatives and to gather input and ideas to strengthen, support, and advance opportunities for Vermont youth.
“We need all Vermonters operating to their full potential. This begins by helping Vermont youth know, explore, and imagine what is possible. We all play a role in helping youth around us — friends, students, coworkers, family, and community members — thrive and succeed,” said Joyce Judy, Community College of Vermont president and member of both the Future of Vermont action team and youth
