Williston Observer 2025 Community Giving Guide

SPECIAL PULL-OUT SECTION

Williston Community 2025

GIVING GUIDE A COMMUNITY PHILANTHROPY GUIDE FOR DONORS AND VOLUNTEERS

When the year draws to a close and the holidays are upon us, it’s a great time to think about ways to give back, to support the health and wellbeing of our community and beyond.

This guide contains a list of nonprofit organizations located in or serving Williston that can benefit from your donations or your time and talents as a volunteer. Whether supporting these organizations or other meaningful causes, we hope those who are able to share this year will be inspired by the good work going on all around us.

Williston

Serving our community since 1985

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Giving Guide  Age Well

Age Well provides services free of charge to Vermonters 60 years of age and older and to their caregivers.

For nearly 50 years, Age Well has provided services and support that allow aging Vermonters to stay independent, and remain healthy at home, where they want to be. We excel at integrating community resources, health services, and wellness programs to enhance and improve the quality of life for older adults.

We offer care & service coordination, Meals on Wheels, Grab & Go meals, community meals, wellness programs, social activities, transportation services, expertise on Medicare, insurance, long and shortterm care options, and the Helpline 1-800-642-5119.

Overwhelmingly, Vermonters want to grow old in their own homes, Age Well provides the services and support to ensure that is a possibility.

Age Well’s mission is to provide the support and guidance that inspires our community to age with confidence.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Your donations help ensure that older adults have access to the nutritious meals, safety checks, and care coordination they deserve. As a non-profit, our services are provided at no charge, and your support ensures that we are able to continue to provide our services to those in need.

Age Well accepts donations of cash through one-time or monthly gifts, stock donations, charitable bequests, and even donations of working or non-working vehicles.

Learn more: agewellvt.org/giving-back/ways-to-give HOW TO DONATE: Whether one-time, monthly, or in honor of someone special, your gift helps older Vermonters here in Northwestern Vermont age well. Age Well is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. EIN #22-2474636. Donations are tax-deductible.

You can donate at any time on our website at agewellvt.org/?form=donate. Donations can also be mailed to: Age Well, 875 Roosevelt Hwy, Ste 210, Colchester, Vermont 05446.

Call Sara Wool, Director of Development at 802-6625229 or email swool@agewellvt.org.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: There are several ways to give your time to those who need it most. Opportunities to volunteer are available in Addison, Franklin, Grand Isle, and Chittenden counties.

You can volunteer as an individual or team! Several local businesses and community groups create volunteer teams.

Opportunities to volunteer include: Delivering Meals on Wheels, veterans visiting other veterans, providing transportation, friendly visits, grocery shopping, budgeting assistance, and more. Contact the Volunteer Services Team to learn more at 802-662-5249 or volunteer@agewellvt.org.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Sara Wool, Director of Development Phone: 1-800-642-5119 Email address: info@agewellvt.org Website: agewellvt.org

“I slept and dreamt that life was joy. I awoke and saw that life was service.

I acted and behold, service was joy.”

— Rabindranath Tagore

Building Bright Futures State Advisory Council

prescriptions, out of pocket medical expenses and any other need the patient may have.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Financial support allows CPSF the flexibility to meet the wide-ranging needs of the patients we support.

HOW TO DONATE: Donations can be made online at www.cpsfvt.org/donate or through the mail at: Cancer Patient Support Foundation, PO Box 1804, Williston, VT 05495. Noncash gifts such as stock or Donor Advised Funds also accepted.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: CPSF is seeking community volunteers to join our Board of Directors or to help with fundraising events, social media and marketing.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Liz Philip-Buttery Phone: 802-488-5495 Email: info@cpsfvt.org Website: cpsfvt.org

Catamount Outdoor Family Center Building Bright Futures (BBF) is Vermont’s early childhood public-private partnership charged under Title 33, Chapter 46, and the Federal Head Start Act (Public Law 110-134) as Vermont’s Early Childhood State Advisory Council (SAC) and network, the mechanism used to advise the Governor and legislature on the well-being of children in the prenatal period through age eight and their families.

BBF’s mission is to improve the well-being of children and families in Vermont by using evidence to inform policy and bringing voices together across sectors and within regions to discuss critical challenges and problem-solve.

BBF maintains the vision and strategic plan for Vermont’s Early Childhood System.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Cash HOW TO DONATE: Donate online at https://buildingbrightfutures.org/ donate/ or send a check to Building Bright Futures, 600 Blair Park, Suite 160, Williston VT 05495 CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Katie Mobbs Phone: 802-876-5010 Email: kmobbs@buildingbrightfutures.org Website: buildingbrightfutures.org

Cancer Patient Support Foundation

The Cancer Patient Support Foundation (CPSF) serves Vermont cancer patients and their families in a time of extraordinary need by providing financial assistance and support during diagnosis, treatment and recovery. The CPSF Emergency Fund removes barriers to treatment and helps cancer patients and their families meet their basic needs.

Since 2001, CPSF has supported more than 12,500 patients from across Vermont. The Emergency Fund helps patients pay for transportation to treatment, housing, food, utilities,

The Catamount Outdoor Family Center (COFC) is the non-profit organization tasked with stewarding the recreational trails, cultural events and educational programs in Williston’s town-owned Catamount Community Forest (CCF). The COFC works to steward the trail network, protect the environment, encourage responsible enjoyment of the forest and promote healthy outdoor activities for all ages and abilities. We invest over $100,000 per year into maintaining the trails, parking lot, portapotties, and other facilities for the community’s benefit.

COFC supports free year-round pedestrian trail access and is allowed by the Town of Williston to charge for bike and ski access to support our stewardship efforts.

Donations are a vital component of COFC’s health and to building a great community of dedicated supporters.

Please consider a gift to contribute to trail stewardship.

In addition to supporting our regular maintenance, your gift will also help achieve evolutionary goals like designing, permitting and funding major upgrades to the network and a new facility to replace our aging and challenged indoor spaces. These multi-million dollar community projects will dramatically improve visitor experiences and ensure long term stability for the COFC. To learn more about the projects, go to https://catamountoutdoor.org/news-events/.

HOW TO DONATE: Online: https://catamountoutdoor.org/donate/ Venmo @catamountdoorfamilycenter Or mail check to 592 Governor Chittenden Road, WIlliston, VT 05495 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: We have lots of fun and rewarding volunteer opportunities at COFC, including trail work and event support. Sign up at https://catamountoutdoor.org/volunteer/ CONTACT INFORMATION: Phone: 802-879-6001 Email: programs@catamountoutdoor.org Website: https://catamountoutdoor.org

Cathedral Square

Cathedral Square improves the lives of older adults and people with diverse needs by creating and maintaining quality, affordable, service-enriched housing.

Established in 1977, Cathedral Square now operates 28 housing communities in Chittenden, Franklin, and Grand Isle counties—including two right here in Williston: Memory Care at Allen Brook and Whitney Hill Homestead.

Cathedral Square also administers the award-winning SASH® (Support and Services at Home) model, created in 2009 and available to Medicare recipients statewide, free of charge, since 2011.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Cathedral Square welcomes financial donations to support all our low-income communities, including our Williston residents at Memory Care at Allen Brook and Whitney Hill Homestead. We also have two new initiatives that need financial support: our Day Respite Program at Memory Care at Allen Brook—providing relief for families caring for loved ones with dementia—and our Housing Incentive Program, which helps formerly homeless individuals maintain stable, longterm housing. Donations of personal care items, comfort items, and health equipment for residents, as well as support for transportation and meals, are also welcomed and encouraged.

HOW TO DONATE: To make a secure online donation, please visit our donate page: https://cathedralsquare.org/donate To donate by check, please mail to: Cathedral Square, 412 Farrell St., Suite 100, South Burlington, VT 05403 To donate goods and services our residents especially need, please refer to our Wish List: https://cathedralsquare.org/wish-list VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Join Cathedral Square’s team of wonderful volunteers, and apply your skills, mind and heart in support of our mission to advance healthy homes, caring communities and positive aging. Volunteer opportunities at Cathedral Square are as varied as your talents and interests, whether you prefer working as part of a group or providing one-on-one assistance. We have 28 housing communities in Chittenden, Franklin, and Grand Isle counties and great flexibility in scheduling. Our residents range in age from infants to centenarians with fascinating life stories and experiences they are eager to share with you. More information about volunteering is available on our website here: https://cathedralsquare.org/volunteer CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Natalie Glynn, Director of Communications & Outreach Phone: 802-859-8880 Email address: glynn@cathedralsquare.org Website: https://cathedralsquare.org/

Child Care Resource

CCR celebrated 40 years in business in 2024! We have grown and changed over these past years to keep up with the growing needs and changes in Chittenden County. We support an increasing number of families

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Giving Guide  through the application process to receive child care subsidies and we consult with and support child care providers to problem solve challenges in the classroom that have been exacerbated by pandemic isolation. Our mission is to strengthen early learning opportunities and support adults in providing nurturing environments so children can flourish. CCR staff provide professional and experienced resources and information at no charge to the residents of Chittenden County and beyond.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: We appreciate unrestricted donations to support our on-going work in the community.

HOW TO DONATE: People can donate on our web site www.childcareresource.org, or by sending a check to CCR, 300 Cornerstone Drive, Suite 128, Williston, VT 05495.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Jane Van Buren Phone: 802-863-3367 Email: jvanburen@childcareresource.org Website: childcareresource.org

It has been said, the granite and marble that underlie Vermont’s soft green hills have found their way into the character of its people. Vermont is known historically as a state that provides for its own. COW Mobile Art Kits are made by Vermonters for Vermonters. Caring for our own in challenging times is what we do in Vermont. As we continue to attempt to reach more Vermont children and families who are threatened with these needs, Color Our World would greatly appreciate the continued support of COW Mobile Art Kits for our community.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Funding for new art supplies for Vermont children and families.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Delivering of COW Mobile Art Kits to Vermont Children and families.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Tara Zeleny Phone: 970-222-3273 Email address: tara@concept360.com Website: colorourworld.org

Color Our World

The Compassionate Friends

Color Our World, (COW), a non-profit 501(c)3 provides COW Mobile Art Kits assembled, stored and delivered by volunteers to children and families in need. COW Mobile Art Kits are a means of art therapy and self-expression that help meet the mental health challenges of Vermont children and families in crisis. The mission of COW volunteers is to create access to new art supplies/materials that fill this basic need. The need of adequate art supplies is great and growing in our area and statewide.

The stresses from effects of COVID, isolation, the OPIOID Epidemic, and recent flooding have frayed the fabric of our society and disrupted families. Some of our children & their families also face job losses and homelessness.

The Compassionate Friends is a grief support group for parents who have experienced the death of a child or grandchild. We offer a comfortable and safe place to grieve amongst others who know your pain. You need not walk alone.

Sessions are held on the 4th Sunday at 8 Lincoln Rd., Williston.

for It’s time al… our annu

CONTRACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Allan Day Phone: 802-233-0544 Contact email: allanday88@gmail.com Website: thecompassionatefriends.org

“Those who bring sunshine to the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves.”

— James Matthew Barrie

Easterseals

Easterseals VT has earned a distinguished reputation for providing forty years of impactful support throughout Vermont, often partnering with the Department for Children and Families (DCF) to find family-centered solutions and create safety and well-being for children and their families. We support at-risk children, foster youth, and families formed by adoption or guardianship. We serve the needs of approximately 2,000 individuals each year across eleven locations in the state.

Among the programs we offer are Child and Family Support, helping parents to create wellbeing for their children through referrals from the Department for Children and Families (DCF); Balanced and Restorative Justice, guiding at-risk youth to become productive members of society; Intensive Family-Based Services, supporting families in establishing stability and safety at home; Youth Development, assisting youth formerly in foster care to make the successful transition to independent adulthood; and Post Permanency, providing additional support for families formed by adoption or guardianship. Easterseals VT delivers services that change lives and communities for the better.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: There are many ways individuals, corporations, and foundations can help us make a difference in the lives of your Vermont neighbors that we serve.

Monetary donations can be made online at eastersealsvt.org/donate/, or mailed to Easterseals VT, 14 North Main Street, Suite 3004, Barre, VT 05641 Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs), gifts of stock, donor-advised funds, and our Very Important Partner (VIP) Campaign are all ways to donate and get involved with Easterseals VT. Learn more about additional ways to give at: eastersealsvt.org/ways-to-give VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Volunteer opportunities are on an as-needed basis.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities for specific projects, contact us at volunteer@eastersealsVT.org CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name (optional): Devyn Burns Phone: 802-461-8582 Email address: dburns@eastersealsvt.org Website: eastersealsvt.org

Empty Arms Vermont

Empty Arms Vermont provides peer support to individuals and families whose babies have died through miscarriage, stillbirth, early infant death, or termination for medical reasons. By cultivating personal connections, creating a compassionate community, and fostering professional collaborations, we provide grieving parents with valuable resources and validation as they navigate the murky days, weeks, and lifetime without their baby.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Financial Donations online (www.emptyarmsvermont.org/donate) or via check made out to Empty Arms Vermont and sent to 530 Community Drive, Suite 202,

Turkey Drive Saturday, Nov. 22 • 400 Cornerstone Dr. Drop off turkey(s) to the Williston Community Food Shelf between 8 A.M & 11 A.M. Or donate gift cards ($15-$20 are best) from local grocery stores, which we can give our clients to purchase their own turkeys. Gift cards can be dropped off or mailed to the Williston Community Food Shelf at P.O. Box 1605, Williston, VT 05495 The number of clients that the Williston Community Food Shelf is serving has risen dramatically! Please help us to reach our goal of having a turkey for each one of our less fortunate neighbors.

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Giving Guide  South Burlington, VT. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: We host in-person events throughout the year and are always looking for volunteers who are interested in setting up, tearing down, etc.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Chelsea Levis Phone: 802-232-2512 Email: info@emptyarmsvermont.org Website: emptyarmsvermont.org

“My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic.

And we’ll change the world.”

— Jack Layton

English Bulldog Rescue

Vermont English Bulldog Rescue is an all volunteer 501(c)3 non profit that began in 1998. We work tirelessly to save dogs destined to die in high kill shelters in Texas and beyond. We save breeder dogs from puppy mill abuse all over the country. We accept as space is available surrenders from private homes all over New England.

Twenty-five percent of our dogs are seniors, over the age of eight. Ten percent have significant health issues such as hearing loss, blindness, or terminal diseases. These dogs are offered hospice homes in which to fully live out their time in safety and comfort. We are involved in our community by partnering with local colleges, middle and high schools to fulfill degree requirements as well as graduation projects and community service projects. We additionally visit local nursing homes to enrich both the lives of our seniors and our dogs.

HOW TO DONATE: We accept monetary donations either by check through the mail or by using our donate link on our website. We accept direct donations to any one of our regular veterinary clinics. Contact Dawna Pederzani to arrange direct donations.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: We are always welcoming volunteers. Most folks come

to walk and spend social time outside with the dogs.

Others offer training skills, computer skills, fundraising and manning our booth at fundraisers throughout the year.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Dawna Pederzani Phone: 802-399-2550 Email: staurolitefarm@aol.com Website: vermontenglishbulldogrescue.com

Federated Garden Clubs of Vermont

cludes a community impact project for GOTR participants.

Our middle school program, Heart & Sole, is available for girls in 6th-8th grade. Over 40,000 girls have participated in GOTR over the last 26 years in Vermont! Join us in 2026 and be a part of the joy and positivity of Girls on the Run as a participant, Coach, Junior Coach, Donor, Sponsor or 5K volunteer!

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Donations to our Every Girl Fund will support program subsidies for ALL participants and additional financial aid for those that need it in the 2026 spring season.

HOW TO DONATE: Make a donation at https://www.gotrvt.org/donate

The Federated Garden Clubs of Vermont’s mission is to promote and aid in the protection and conservation of our natural resources. Our mission is also to encourage and assist the garden clubs of the State of Vermont, and to encourage educational programs in the field of horticulture, ecology, forestry, landscape design, environmental studies and floral design. Theme: “Cultivate and Nourish Yourself in Nature....Play Outside”

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: 1) Volunteer to be a GOTR Coach this coming spring (‘26)! Our season begins the week of March 16th and runs for 10 weeks. Teams meet twice a week for 90 minutes and culminate the season with a noncompetitive, joyful 5K. All coaches are background checked and trained in-person. You do NOT need to be a runner to coach!

Registration opens in November at https://www.gotrvt. org/coach 2) Volunteer at the GOTR 5K on Saturday, May 30th at the Champlain Valley Expo. Registration will open in April 2026 at https://www.gotrvt.org/5k-essex

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Funds/donations for a Blue Star Memorial Marker to be placed in the northwest part of Vermont to honor those men and women who have served or serve in the United States Armed Services. The Blue Star was chosen because it had become an icon in World War II and was seen on flags and banners in churches, businesses, and the homes where sons and daughters were away at war.

The dedication and ceremony for the installation of the marker is scheduled for May 27, 2025 (time to be announced) to be held at American Legion Post 91, Essex, VT with an invitation open to the community to attend.

Scholarship Program for college students majoring in horticulture related fields.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Katie Keidel Phone: 802-871-5664 Email: Katiek@girlsontherunvermont.org Website: www.gotrvt.org

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Doris Van Mullen Phone: 615-390-9965 Email: djvanmullen@gmail.com Website: vermontfgcv.com

Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity partners with financial donors, local families, and community volunteers to build and sell affordable homes in Chittenden, Franklin, Grand Isle, and Lamoille counties.

Habitat homebuyers help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage.

Through our efforts, more than 120 local families have achieved the strength, stability, and independence they needed to build a better life for themselves and their families.

Girls on the Run

“You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you.

What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”

— Jane Goodall

Habitat ReStore

Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity Green Mountain

DONATIONS SOUGHT: One-time or recurring monthly donations, planned gifts, gifts of stock, land donations, or in-kind support.

Girls on the Run Vermont is a statewide non-profit organization for girls in 3rd-8th grade that is designed to build self-esteem when girls need it the most. Our programs are structured to foster a sense of empowerment and to develop life skills that nurture girls’ social, emotional, and physical wellbeing.

Our mission is to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident using an experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running and movement. Lessons cover topics like positive self-talk, managing emotions, navigating friendships, and more. The curriculum also in-

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Caitlyn Conibear Phone: (802) 598-0355 Email: cconibear@vermonthabitat.org Website: vermonthabitat.org

HOW TO DONATE: Visit vermonthabitat.org to donate online, or send donations via mail to: Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity, PO Box 1436, Williston, VT 05495 Please do not send credit card information through the mail. If you have questions about your donation, contact Amy Pearl, Development and Communications Manager, at 802-872-8726 ext. 8 or apearl@vermonthabitat.org.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Join us for a day of hands-on construction to help build homes, community, and hope locally. No experience is necessary! Just a willingness to learn, help and have fun.

The Habitat ReStores are independently owned donation centers and resell stores operated by Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity (GMHFH). The stores accept donations of new and gently used items, then sell the merchandise to the public at a fraction of the retail price. Sale proceeds stay within Northwest Vermont and directly support GMHFH’s mission of building affordable homes in partnership with families needing better housing.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: New and gently used furniture, appliances, building supplies, vehicles, housewares, books, clothing, and décor.

HOW TO DONATE: Visit vermonthabitat.org/restore for a list of store locations and donation hours. Donations can be dropped off, or if you have large donations, free pick-ups can be scheduled by calling 802-857-5296 ext. 1.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: From unloading donations to stocking the sales floor to testing electronics, our team can help find (or create!) the perfect volunteer niche for you. Scheduling is flexible and no experience is necessary. Volunteers must be 16+.

To learn more, contact Bridget Mientka, at bmientka@ vermonthabitat.org.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Caitlyn Conibear Phone: (802) 598-0355 Email: cconibear@vermonthabitat.org Website: vermonthabitat.org

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Giving Guide  Howard Center

Email: DevelopmentTeam@howardcenter.org Website: howardcenter.org

Humane Society of Chittenden County HSCC Howard Center provides lifesaving mental health, substance use, and developmental services to children, adults, and families across Vermont. Every day, we walk alongside our neighbors in crisis — offering care, counseling, and connection when it’s needed most. Through more than 50 programs, including First Call for Chittenden County, the Baird School, and Community Outreach, we help thousands of people find stability, hope, and healing.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: When you give to Howard Center, you help ensure that no one in our community has to face their hardest day alone.

Whether it’s a one-time or recurring gift, a planned gift, stock donation, or contribution of goods, your generosity provides care where it’s needed most. State and Federal funding alone cannot meet the cost of care. The truth is we rely on community support to fill critical gaps to ensure that Help is Here.

HOW TO DONATE: Donate online at www.howardcenter.org or mail checks payable to Howard Center to: Howard Center Development Office, 102 S Winooski Ave, Burlington, VT 05401 CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Maggie Hannah Phone: 802-488-6913

Help us show Williston’s seniors we care!

We believe that supporting, strengthening and sustaining the bonds between people and pets improves the well-being of individuals, families and communities. Our mission is to ensure that every pet has a loving home and that every pet owner has access to the resources they need to give those pets happy, healthy lives.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: HSCC is an independent, non-profit organization and relies on the generous support from our community. When you donate to HSCC, you help strengthen vital community programs and services which help pets and people alike. Your donation also allows HSCC to care for and rehome more than 1,300 dogs, cats, and small animals each year.

HOW TO DONATE: Donate online: www.hsccvt.org/donate, mail a check: Humane Society of Chittenden County, 142 Kindness Court, S. Burlington, VT 05403, or drop off an item from our Wishlist: www.hsccvt.org/wishlist

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Volunteers’ contributions are vital for the health and well-being of the wonderful animals we shelter. From dog walkers to board members, from those who help with events to those who clean kennels, every volunteer is a valuable part of our shelter community. We’ve all come together to benefit animals’ lives. Find out how to become an HSCC Volunteer at hsccvt.org/volunteer CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Emily Hecker, Director of Development Phone: 802-862-0135 x 15 Email: emilyh@hsccvt.org Website: hsccvt.org

The Janet S. Munt Family Room

The Janet S. Munt Family Room’s (“The Family Room”) mission is to be a place that builds healthy, connected communities by supporting families and young children. The Family Room, a unique parent-child center in Burlington’s Old North End, is open to all Chittenden County families with children age prenatal to 5. We serve 1,600 individuals each year through 22+ free drop-in and enrolled programs for

caregivers and children, home visiting and family support, and concrete supports in times of need. Originally founded in 1988 as a program of the VNA of Chittenden and Grand Isle Counties, we received independent 501(c)(3) status in 2017. Our mission centers on making sure families feel safe, have their basic needs met, and feel supported. With our multi-generational approach, we focus on the health of the whole family, not just the children. Our services combat social isolation and postpartum depression, empower fathers to take an active role in their children’s lives, improve school readiness in young children, prevent abuse and neglect, and encourage better nutrition. Our families come from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, live in 18 cities and towns, represent 63 countries of origin, and speak over 40 languages.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Cash gifts or In-Kind donations to support 22+ programs, especially concrete supports such as food, diapers and wipes, baby formula, transportation, winter clothing, medical bills, heating fuel, utility bills, emergency car repairs, etc.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Year-round opportunities include help in our kitchen for program meal preparation, special events for families and for fundraising, environment days (organizing, cleaning, repairing), community garden seasonal help, skilled childcare, and more.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Laurie Keve, Director of Development Phone: 802-862-2121 Email: laurie@thefamilyroomvt.org Website: www.thefamilyroomvt.org

drop off by th

Dec.13

HOLIDAY SOCK DRIVE The Williston Observer is collecting new, comfortable socks to donate to area nursing homes.

SPONSORED BY Williston

Serving our community since 1985

Drop off your donations by Friday, Dec. 13 at:

Williston Coffee Shop 400 Cornerstone Drive, Williston

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Giving Guide  Lund

Lund strengthens families so that children can thrive. Lund offers hope and opportunity to Vermont families through education, treatment, family support, and adoption. Our programs wrap around families to meet them where they are and stay with them during their whole parenting journey.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Spread joy and warmth to families this holiday season by participating in Lund’s Joy Drive. There are many ways to participate, visit our website to learn more: https://lundvt.org/ways-to-give/holiday-giving/.

HOW TO DONATE: In addition to holiday gifts, we ask that you consider making a monetary donation to Lund to ensure that children and families can continue to receive the support needed to thrive. Donations can be made at: lundvt.org/give.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Sharon Lifschutz Phone: 802.861.2580 Email address: Sharonl@lundvt.org Website: https://lundvt.org/

“If the world seems cold to you, kindle fires to warm it.”

— Lucy Larcom

NAMI Vermont

Vermont NAMI Vermont supports, educates, and advocates so that all communities, families, and individuals affected by mental illness or mental health challenges can build better lives.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: One-time donations, recurring donations, in-kind donations, memorial donations, and legacy giving.

HOW TO DONATE: NAMI Vermont accepts donations by check to our office at 600 Blair Park Rd, Ste. 301, Williston, VT 05495. Folks can donate online through PayPal or Network for Good, make a one-time or recurring donation, or complete our online form at namivt.org/ donate.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: At NAMI Vermont, we offer a variety of opportunities for volunteers to get involved in their communities. All are welcome! You could choose to facilitate a support group, teach one of our educational programs, or share your personal mental health experience by becoming a presenter. Help out with events by supporting the planning process, staffing our exhibit tables, and more! Or become an advocate and help Vermont policymakers understand why mental healthcare is so important - to everyone. We work around your schedule and your needs. If you’re interested in getting involved, please reach out to us at info@namivt.org.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Laurie Emerson Phone: (802) 876-7949 x101 Email address: lemerson@namivt.org Website URL: www.namivt.org

Sail Beyond Cancer Vermont

Sail Beyond Cancer Vermont harnesses the healing power of wind, water, and sail to honor and support those navigating cancer. We provide free, private three-hour sailing experiences on Lake Champlain for individuals in treatment, survivors, caregivers, and loved ones - creating space for courage, reflection, and joy.

We believe one of Vermont’s greatest natural resource - Lake Champlain -should be accessible to everyone, not just those with the means or ability to sail. Many of our participants come from rural and underserved communities where opportunities for recreation, reflection, and connection to nature are limited. Through free, private sails we offer a welcoming space creating moments of peace, joy, and shared humanity on the water.

In 2025, we proudly served 547 passengers from 104 Vermont towns and 20 states, ensuring that anyone could experience the healing power of the lake. We also offer memorial and celebration-of-life sails for families who have lost someone to cancer within the past three years.

Based in Burlington, our dedicated volunteer captains and crew make these transformative experiences possible for participants across Vermont and beyond.

Your support keeps our sails full. Donations ensure that anyone facing cancer can leave it ashore and feel “cancer-free” for a few healing hours on the water.

HOW TO DONATE: Sail Beyond Cancer Vermont is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN 85-1000939), and all donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. We gratefully accept one-time or monthly gifts, as well as donations of stock, charitable bequests, and even boats that help sustain our mission.

You can give securely online at www.sailbeyondcancer.org/ donate or by mail to: Sail Beyond Cancer Vermont 150 Dorset St, #245-234 South Burlington, VT 05403 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Sail Beyond Cancer VT is always looking for volunteers to

help with fundraising events, sailing crew, sail scheduling, and board opportunities.

mental health support and coaching on life skills to transition to a thriving adulthood.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Kelli Shonter, Executive Director Phone: 802-825-9463 Email: vermont@sailbeyondcancer.org Website: www.sailbeyondcancer.org/vermontchapter

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Monetary or donations of backpacks, camping gear, waterproof gloves, winter boots, raincoats, new underwear and socks for all genders and sizes, travel mugs, handwarmers, deodorant, shampoo, and conditioner.

“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”

— Aesop

Sleep In Heavenly Peace

We are a nonprofit organization that involves the community to sponsor and help us build beds for kids that have none or are sleeping on couches or on substandard frames or sharing beds with parents, etc. Our mission statement is “No Kids Sleep On The Floor in Our Town.”

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Depending on what your interest level is we seek Bed Sponsorships. We also always seek Bedding Donations and of course Monetary donations.

HOW TO DONATE: The best method is to visit our facebook page where there is a post with a Donations tab, which will bring you right to our donor page. The facebook page is: ShpchittendenCo. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: We will post our build days open for Volunteers on our facebook page as well as bed delivery help.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Mike Lemieux Phone: 802-363-5767 Email: Mike.lemieux@shpbeds.org Website: shpbeds.org

Spectrum Youth & Family Services

Founded in 1970, Spectrum is a nationally recognized leader in helping youth ages 14-26 and their families turn their lives around. Each year, we help over 1,200 teenagers and young adults access food, clothing, emergency shelter, and transitional housing, along with

HOW TO DONATE: Online at www.spectrumvt.org, or check out our gift catalog at spcvt.org/catalog. Items can be brought to 31 Elmwood Ave. in Burlington or 223 Lake St. in St. Albans.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Volunteers can cook meals, mentor a youth, or help at events. Learn more here: spcvt.org/volunteer CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Bridget Everts Phone: 802-864-7423 x 222 Email: beverts@spectrumvt.org Website: spectrumvt.org

Split the Ticket Fund

The Split the Ticket Fund matches financial contributions with donations of heating oil, kerosene and propane from local energy providers. The delivery ticket is split 50/50 with the fuel company, every $1 donated buys $2 worth of heating fuel. These providers are mostly small, family-owned businesses and are often the first to hear about and respond to a heating emergency.

This program gives local businesses, organizations and individuals, the opportunity to provide a gift of warmth.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Financial donation HOW TO DONATE: Go to ticketsplit.org VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Nominate someone for a gift of warmth at ticketsplit. org CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Matt Cota Phone: 802-223-7750 Website: giftofwarmth@ticketsplit.org

Stern Center for Language and Learning

We are faced with a learning crisis in our country, and a quiet epidemic of literacy failure is hiding in plain sight.

Vermont reading scores show that up to two-thirds of our students read below grade level. Too many cannot read at all.

When a student is left out of learning, their promise as a human being dims. Entire communities pay the price—or gain the benefits—of how we address learning potential in all of our children. Negative outcomes

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Giving Guide  include isolation, addiction, incarceration, and violence.

The good news is that more of us are searching for proven ways to make a positive difference, and the learning crisis is among the most solvable problems of our time.

The Stern Center for Language and Learning, based in Williston, is a critical hinge point for students, families, educators, and communities. We evaluate clients for learning differences and disabilities. We teach academic subjects like reading and math. We provide speech therapy and social learning. And we teach teachers to put well-researched practices into classrooms, so every student achieves breakthroughs.

Together with our donors, the Stern Center works for a world where everyone enjoys the lifelong power and joy of learning. Thousands of children and families have benefited from our expert approach since 1983, and 94% of Vermont schools partnered with us for student success in 2025.

Donations help the brilliant young reader with dyslexia who gains confidence and founds an innovative start-up. The hardworking middle schooler aspiring to a career in medicine, overcoming a math disability that might have undone her dream. The socially anxious teen being coached on interpersonal communication who secures a first job and makes a new lifelong friend.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Funds to support the Stern Center’s need-based financial assistance for learners and families.

of evidence-based action steps that will reduce the rate of incidence of childhood cancer in the form of prevention-based measures, including addressing the sources of environmental triggers for cancer.

We raise funds and direct those funds to scientific research collaboratives that are studying the environmental factors associated with childhood cancer incidence. There are countless pediatric cancer charities in the U.S. and the world, but most of them are organized around treatment and support for kids and families who already have cancer. We’re unique in that we are working towards reducing incidence of pediatric cancer, reducing the actual number of children who have to face a cancer diagnosis in the first place.

“The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.”

— Oscar Wilde

StormStrong Foundation

Founded in 2019 by Drs. Matt and Julieta Rushford, the StormStrong Foundation is the leading charitable organization in the U.S. dedicated to discovering the causes of childhood cancers and implementing results-driven preventive measures, to ensure that future generations will be more protected from the devastation of a cancer diagnosis.

Mission: To focus attention on and recruit support for efforts at better understanding the causes of childhood cancer, and particularly leukemia, and the development

CONTACT INFORMATION: Phone: 802-864-7541 Email: info@unitedwaynwvt.org Website: unitedwaynwvt.org/Vermont

DONATIONS SOUGHT: The Vermont Land Trust accepts monetary donations, along with bequests, real estate, stock, automobiles and more.

Vermont Land Trust

HOW TO DONATE: Go to vlt.org/support to learn about ways to support and to donate online.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Phone: 802-223-5234 Email: info@vlt.org Website: vlt.org

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Financial donations VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: None yet, stay tuned.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Dr. Matt Rushford Phone: 802-557-7056 Email: mattrushforddc@gmail.com Website: stormstrongfoundation.org

United Way of Northwest Vermont

HOW TO DONATE: https://sterncenter.org/ways-to-give/ CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Ed Wilkens Phone: 802-276-8737 Email: ewilkens@sterncenter.org Website: sterncenter.org

parcels are upheld, in partnership with landowners Connect all people to the outdoors through education and events

unitedwaynwvt.org/volunteer.

United Way of Northwest Vermont mobilizes our community to do the work that no single organization can do alone. We proudly serve Chittenden, Franklin, and Grand Isle counties.

We are 100% local, bringing together people and resources to address our community’s immediate needs and lead the way to a better future for everyone in our region. We support local initiatives focused on Meeting Basic Needs (Housing, Food, and Transportation), Supporting Families, Promoting Mental Health, Reducing Substance Misuse, and Advancing Financial Security.

Last year, thanks to generous support from our community, we positively impacted over 60,000 lives and distributed over $2.7 million to 80+ local organizations.

We’re working towards a future where every person in every community can reach their full potential.

Learn more and get involved today: www.unitedwaynwvt.org.

Vermont is a place where the well-being of land and people is entwined. With families, communities, and partners, we conserve land and foster life-long connections to the farms, forests, and natural areas that define us.

With expertise in conservation, ecology, community engagement, and finance, we help: Conserve land with important economic, community, and environmental benefits by limiting development and ensuring sound land stewardship practices Support farmers in buying land and growing sustainable businesses Improve the health of land, water, and soil, and share that knowledge with all others Ensure that permanent legal protections on over 2000

“What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.”

Building homes, changing lives in Northwest Vermont.

— Pericles

104 Robin Hood Dr., Swanton 528 Essex Rd/Route2A, Williston 414 Route 7, Milton vermonthabitat.org @greenmountainhabitat

Get ready for the holidays while helping your community!

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Community giving makes our work possible. There are many ways to give including individual donations of all sizes, workplace campaigns and corporate donations, planned giving, and more.

HOW TO DONATE: To donate to United Way of Northwest Vermont, visit our website www.unitedwaynwvt.org/give, or contact Liz Gamache at lizg@unitedwaynwvt.org or 802-8617843.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Volunteers play a crucial role in the success of the work we do at United Way of Northwest Vermont. There are many ways to volunteer with United Way and with the community organizations and partners we support.

Visit our website for volunteer opportunities: www.

Whether you are cleaning things out ahead of the holidays or looking for decorations or essentials, we’ve got you covered!

And best of all, proceeds from the Habitat for Humanity ReStores go towards building affordable homes in Northwest VT. Locations in Swanton, Williston, and Milton and FREE pickup is available!

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Giving Guide  “We all do better when we all do better.”

Vermont Transcendental Meditation Center

— Paul Wellstone

Vermont Repertory Theatre

Vermont Rep is a Williston based non-profit company whose goal is to produce professional quality theatrical productions. Every single penny raised through ticket sales, donations and sponsorship goes directly onto the stage. The story is brought to life through many professional quality theatre practitioners and lavish costumes, scenery, hair, lighting and all other elements of design that bring theatre to life.

Vermont Rep is committed to keeping tickets as affordable as possible. Because we are able to keep costs down by not paying ourselves, including our actors, we are in a position to keep the quality of theatre exquisite.

We are especially proud to offer discounted student tickets, believing profoundly that we all need to invest in the future generations of theatre lovers.

This mission is only possible with the help of the community we serve, thereby enabling us to continue to offer lower prices to those for whom it makes a difference.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Financial donations which help support bring our shows to life.

HOW TO DONATE: Online at: https://www.vermontrep.com/donate To donate by check mail to: Vermont Repertory Theatre, 134 Turtle Pond Road, Williston, VT 05495 Please be sure to include your name, return address, and email so we can thank you!

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Yes! There are multiple ways to volunteer to help Vermont Repertory Theatre. We are proud to be Williston-based and feel that the more our community supports the work we do, the more we all can feel connected as a community. Ways to help include keeping our rehearsal space clean, front-of-house ushering for shows, parking attendants, community outreach for sponsorships and donations, help creating sets and costumes, researching grants, and letting us know your expertise in theatre work such as acting, lighting, sound, backstage, props, choreography, music directing, artistic director and more.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Steve Kendall, President Phone: 802-578-0266 Email address: stepkend@comcast.net Website: https://www.vermontrep.com/

The Vermont Transcendental Meditation Center aims to bring greater fulfillment to individuals, which then spreads to everyone else in the community to become more harmonious, supportive, and successful.

The educational tool we teach is the easy, effortless, Transcendental Meditation® technique. Extensive research verifies this technique results in many benefits: parents feel less frazzled, business owners more easily expand their business, people in Recovery more rapidly overcome addictions, prisoners “feel free for the first time in their life,” students’ grades go up, nurses overcome compassion fatigue, first responders don’t burn out, PTSD becomes a distant memory as vitality is restored, and blood pressure is lowered.

We teach the Transcendental Meditation technique with lifetime followup support, to adults and children. Our courses are available to everyone — individuals as well as organizations, government, businesses, and schools.

Free introductory presentations are available for those who want to learn more about the benefits and courses.

We meet days, evenings, and weekends, either digitally or in-person at our center in Williston or offsite. To sign up, please see our website or contact us directly.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Financial support for our scholarship fund and educational facility via https://usa.tm.org/friends/. For Location, select VT, Vermont.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Varied options: Indoor and outdoor maintenance, office support/errands. Technical assistance, help us learn various computer programs [we use Mac’s] and other IT setup.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Janet Smith Phone: 802-923-6782 Email: vermont@tm.org Website: tm.org/vermont

Williston Community Food Shelf WILLISTON COMMUNITY

FOOD SHELF Established in 2008, the Williston Community Food Shelf is dedicated to the elimination of hunger in the towns of Williston and St George. Our mission is to provide high quality food, and connections to essential support services, to those in need in our community. We are seeing a large and increasing number of clients (over 350 families a month) and we need your help. This vital community service is 100% volunteer driven and relies on donations to operate, we have no guaranteed source of funding, and are in need of continued support from our friends and neigh-

bors. Operating Hours: Tuesday 5:00-6:30 pm, Thursday and Saturday 9:00-11:00 am

114, Williston VT, 05495. Donations can also be made via PayPal on the club’s website (portal.clubrunner.ca/1453).

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Monetary or unexpired food. Monetary donations can be mailed to W.C.F.S., P.O. Box 1605, Williston, VT 05495, at willistonfoodshelf.com or dropped off at the Food Shelf at 400 Cornerstone Drive, Suite 130, Williston, VT. Donations of Food can be dropped off at the Food Shelf during our operating hours.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: People are encouraged to consider joining the Club or to help with our events and service projects. Visit our website and Facebook page and watch Front Porch Forum and the Williston Observer for upcoming events and join us!

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: The Food Shelf is always looking for volunteers to work during our open hours, and to be on call to do pickups around town or to meet deliveries at the Food Shelf.

Please contact us and we will happily add you to our list of wonderful volunteers.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Ginger Morton, President Phone: 802-578-0586 Email: info@willistonfoodshelf.com Website: willistonfoodshelf.com

“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”

—Dr. Seuss, from “The Lorax”

CONTACT INFORMATION: Email: RotaryClubofWillistonVT@gmail.com Website: portal.clubrunner.ca/1453

With Love from Vermont

With Love From Vermont Partner with Feed My Starving Children to empower volunteers to pack and ship life saving meals to malnourished children around the world and provide non-perishable food for local families.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Monetary HOW TO DONATE: give.fmsc.org/vermont VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Fundraising throughout the year and packing food at the annual MobilePack on the third weekend of October.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact name: Fred Kenney Phone: (802) 777-8349 Email address: kenneyfred@gmail.com Website: give.fmsc.org/vermont

Williston-Richmond Rotary Club

The Williston-Richmond Rotary Club is a service organization made up of community members who enjoy giving and serving in our community and, through the parent organization of Rotary International, in the world. This Club sponsors an Independence Day 5K run, observances of Memorial Day and Veterans Day, an annual Story Slam, Easter Egg Hunt and Halloween Trunk-or-Treat events for local children, a holiday luncheon for seniors in December, a plant give-away at Town Fair, ramp building for disabled individuals, and other events. Outdoors, members maintain public park benches and the Fontaine Canoe Access, plant daffodils and carry out other projects. The Club also raises funds to support children’s literacy, youth academic scholarships and leadership training, home heating fuel assistance and more.

DONATIONS SOUGHT: Financial and in-kind donations are welcomed to support our service work, nonprofit grants and community events.

HOW TO DONATE: Checks made out to ‘Williston Rotary Club Charities’ can be sent to the Williston-Richmond Rotary Club at PO Box

This Guide will be posted on-line at willistonobserver. com If you know of a particular non-profit organization that would like to be included please contact Susan Cote at susan@willistonobserver.com