Better Together: Inspiring giving and bringing together people and resources to make a difference in Vermont.
The grant program, in collaboration with the Vermont League of Cities and Towns and the state of Vermont’s Office of Racial Equity, aims to support Vermont villages, towns, and cities in efforts to foster inclusion and belonging for people of all races and backgrounds. The goal is to empower local governments to remove structural barriers and foster a diverse and inclusive environment. The broad objectives are ensuring all people feel connected and safe within their communities, promoting the recruitment and support of BIPOC leaders in business and local governance, providing communities with tools to address discrimination promptly, and valuing community membership regardless of the duration of residence. This grant acknowledges varying community needs and stages of equity work, supporting a wide range of proposals like consultant-led efforts on diversity, equity, and inclusion, community conversations, creation and support of municipal equity committees, and stipends for involved community members. Grants of up to $10,000 will be awarded for projects lasting 18 months.