Vermont Thriving Communities Coalition
We are excited to be one of the first SOCIAL CONNECTION coalitions in the nation! Join our coalition to help lead innovative and regenerative solutions for Vermont. Individuals, organizations, businesses and government agencies are all welcome to coordinate with us to reduce isolation and loneliness.
Contact our facilitators today to learn more! Email us at info@socialtinkering.org.
A regenerative and grassroots collaborative project for bridging statewide social connection advocacy, projects, and resources, so that all people in Vermont have the opportunity to feel valued and cared for.
The Framework
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Statewide Partner Organization - coordinating resources, funding & projects
Advocacy Peer Network - A peer network for co-empowerment, training, advocacy opportunities, and services
Sponsors for Social Connection - A network of businesses investing in meaningful social connection.
The Major Components
Advocacy & Collaboration Building
Leading regenerative solutions with lived experiences and expertise; raise awareness, deepen understanding, and reduce barriers.
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Resource Development
Coordinate capacity building, strategic planning, and training throughout the state.
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Revenue Development & Allocation
Coordinate & support local grassroots projects and help each other thrive.
Stay in the know!
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Status updates will be posted here as we build.​
If you are working on social connection, belonging, social isolation, loneliness; or one of their many complex issues, we want to hear from you! Contact our team to schedule a time to meet and chat about coordination. Email info@socialtinkering.org to get started.
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Stay tuned to learn more! We'll be updating this page as we make progress.
Join our Newsletter HERE!
Next Steps:
Establishing an Advocacy Committee and planning for our first full Coalition meeting in January 2026.
January - June 2025: Formed the Facilitation Team to establish the Coalition's membership framework and administrative needs. Currently drafting a Coalition Agreement, seeking funding partners, and outreaching throughout Vermont to raise awareness and invite organizations and advocates to participate.
2023-2024:
Strategic planning of the Coalition, informed by equity, development, and public health consultants from across the state.​​
Our Facilitation Team
"Fighting social isolation means standing up for the right of every person to be seen, heard, and valued. It's about refusing to accept a world where loneliness steals lives. I am honored to be a part of this crucial coalition, as I deeply believe in the power of human connections. Together we can create a Vermont where no one is left behind."
~ One of our Facilitators share their "WHY" statement ~
Vermont Association for
Mental Health & Addiction Recovery
Vermont Department of Health
Office of Health Equity Integration
Sunshine Silver Lining
Our Facilitators graciously coordinate with us in-kind to build this Coalition because they strongly believe in the power of social connection to heal our communities and help each other thrive.
Our Connection Investors
Vermont Department of Health
Office of Health Equity Integration
2023 - early 2025 - Health Equity Grant funding through Vermont Department of Health, Vermont Community Foundation.
For strategic planning, capacity building, and the launch of our facilitation team.
Thank you for your support!
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Click the button below to read the Health Equity Impact Report on this funding project:​
