From intimate gatherings in local hosts’ homes to nature walks to bustling drop-in mixers at Brattleboro’s Gallery Walk, we do all kinds of things!
Circle Round: A Virtual Newcomers’ Welcome Event and CircleSing in Partnership with the Heart Rose Club
New and returning Vermonters are invited to take a deep breath and join a virtual CircleSinging event as a special wintertime welcome. Designed especially for those who may not be able to join in-person gatherings, and for winter weather. Longtime locals are encouraged to attend to help welcome newcomers as well!
Saxton’s River-based singer and Feldenkrais teacher Paris Kern will lead us in creating a spontaneous group composition. Sponsored by BDCC’s GROW SoVermont, a program to welcome new and returning Vermonters, and the Heart Rose Club, a holistic wellness center in downtown Brattleboro.
RSVP here for the Zoom link.
We’re planning more events across Windham County– sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop!
Another way of finding community and getting to know the area is by meeting with local Welcome Wagon hosts (volunteers who welcome new and returning Vermonters). Each month we send out short bios of newcomers so that hosts can reach out to set up a personal meetup– coffee, a hike, an informal downtown walking tour, etc. Sign up here or reach out with questions.
Southern Vermont is a dynamic place with people whose families go back generations and folks who just moved here. It takes all of us– fresh perspectives from the outside, and a deeply rooted history– to make our region the best it can be.
SoVermont is part of the statewide GROW network to welcome new and returning Vermonters. It looks a little different in every region, but across the state, local organizations are working together to help newcomers feel right at home. Join us!
Ready to help others navigate their new community? You have options:
(1) Join us as co-hosts at newcomers mixers – see events above
(2) Sign up for the Welcome Wagon to connect 1:1 with a newcomer – show them around, have them over for dinner, or meet up for a hike, etc.
(3) Plan a newcomers gathering of your own! The GROW program has micro-grants available to cover food and activity fees.
Let us know how you’d like to be involved.
Employers: We can help your new employees and their families get connected in the community. Share our newcomers orientation checklist and let them know about our events, or partner with us to host a gathering.
Realtors: Refer your new and potential residents to us for a stellar welcome experience that will have them singing your praises!
Community organizations: We'd love to host an event together, let newcomers know about your volunteer opportunities, and more!
Town staff and elected officials play a critical role in ensuring newcomers feel welcome and know how to participate in town life. We encourage towns to consider having a “welcome” page on your town website, along with a prominent signup link for the town email list and/or newsletter on the homepage.
For more detailed ideas see the checklists and templates below or reach out for help setting up templates or hosting meet & greets (microgrants are available).
Brattleboro Development Credit Corporation
76 Cotton Mill Hill, Brattleboro, VT 05301 | 802.257.7731 x 218 | info@brattleborodevelopment.com
Funding for SoVermont.Com was made possible in part with a Rural Business Development Grant from USDA Rural Development