The Vermont Council on Rural Development (VCRD) is inviting community leaders, volunteers, and partners committed to Vermont to join the inaugural “Community Social” June 13 at the Lake Bomoseen Lodge & Taproom.

The event will include a short speaking program with updates on VCRD initiatives and issues vital to towns across Vermont, as well as lots of opportunity to connect with friends old and new on the shores of Lake Bomoseen.

Rutland County community leader Melinda Humphrey will give the keynote address. Humphrey currently serves on the NeighborWorks of Western Vermont Board of Directors, Executive Committee/Assistant Treasurer for the Rutland Area NAACP, and a foster/respite provider with the Vermont Department of Children & Families. In prior roles, Humphrey was on the Rutland City Board of Alderman and a founding member of Rutland Young Professionals. In her full-time role, Humphrey is the Manager of Tariffs & Rates for Green Mountain Power.

Other speakers for the program include;

“VCRD helps build prosperous and resilient communities through democratic engagement, marshaling resources, and collective action – none of which happens without local volunteer leadership,” said Executive Director Brian Lowe. “The Community Social is about sharing what VCRD is seeing across the state, hearing from some outstanding leaders, and celebrating and connecting local community leaders. We hope you’ll join us on June 13.”

Registration is currently open at www.vtrural.org/vcrd-community-social/ and is $25 per person, with options available on the registration website for partial or no payment to register, if needed, by using promo code “PARTIAL” (for $10) or “FRIEND” (for no cost) at checkout. Registration helps cover event expenses, but should not be a barrier for anyone.

The evening includes light appetizers and a cash bar. Space is limited.

The generous event sponsors include Foley Services, Front Porch Forum, Heritage Family Credit Union, Green Mountain Power, H. Hirschmann LLC, and Velco.

To become a sponsor, reach out to Kim Rupe at [email protected].

Register now at www.vtrural.org/vcrd-community-social/

For questions or more information, please visit our website at www.vtrural.org/vcrd-community-social/ or by contacting (802) 223-6091 or [email protected].