Connection and Conservation: Moving Back and Pitching In

For Nate Fowle, returning home to tiny Pownal, Vermont, meant finding community, purpose, and a role in what’s happening next.

Nate Fowle grew up in Pownal, and like many young Vermonters, he left as soon as he could. Years later, with more perspective, he began to see Southern Vermont differently. “As an adult, I really learned to appreciate just how special Southern Vermont is and what it had to offer me as a kid, and also what it has to offer me now.”

When Nate moved back, the experience surprised him. “Moving back here has been better than I ever could have imagined,” he says—and much of that came down to the people he met along the way.

After coming home, Nate quickly became involved in community life. Through Shires Young Professionals, he found both friendships and a sense of direction. “Without an amazing group like this working to help young people in the area connect with each other and form friendships, we would not have survived this move,” he says.

That network helped anchor him as he stepped into more visible community roles. Today, Nate serves on the Pownal Conservation Commission and is involved with Pownal Parks & Recreation, helping steward outdoor spaces and create opportunities for residents to gather, recreate, and connect. The work allows him to contribute directly to the town where he grew up—this time with intention.

What keeps Nate engaged is the energy he sees in others. Returning showed him just how many people are quietly doing the work of making Southern Vermont stronger. Through local boards, volunteer roles, and everyday collaboration, he’s surrounded by community leaders who are committed to the region’s future—and that’s motivating.

“There is something really special happening in our area right now, and I’m so glad to be able to be some small part of that,” he says.

Nate is realistic about what returning home looks like for young people. “It’s naïve to think that I would be able to stop every kid who grows up here from ever leaving,” he acknowledges. But he’s hopeful about what comes next. “If we can figure out a way to ensure that at some point they choose to come back (and maybe bring a few extra people with them), it could be transformative for the state.”

For Nate Fowle, returning to Pownal wasn’t about staying still—it was about coming back ready to contribute, inspired by the people around him and committed to helping Southern Vermont continue to grow.

Move to Vermont

Want to live here too? We’d love to have you! Check out the resources on our Move to Vermont page or Connect with a Vermonter to get connect to our 1:1 relocation support.