SoVT Get on Board

SoVermont Get on Board is a course designed to offer practical skills for effective and active participation in the civic life of Southern Vermont communities. Learn from statewide experts and longtime local leaders, get big-picture knowledge to inspire and inform, and most importantly, find connections to support your journey.

We have trained 45 active and aspiring local leaders from Pownal to Vernon, and Winhall to Dummerston, and everywhere in between. “Graduates” are exploring plans to run for town office, protect local wetlands, and implement strategic planning protocols with their nonprofit boards.

This year, we've shortened the course to take place over 3 Saturdays (with two sessions on November 7th). Take one course, or take them all for a discounted rate! Topics covered are:

Session 1: Local Government in Vermont
Session 2: Nonprofit Organizations
Session 3: Community Led Projects
Session 4: Deepening Your Impact

Throughout the course, participants determine what opportunities they might like to explore, with follow-up support and helpful connections from BDCC staff.

While we encourage everyone (and especially those new to community involvement in Vermont) to take the full course, it's also possible to drop into individual units based on your interest and background.

2026 Program Overview

4 Sessions, October- November 2026

Individual sessions $25 apiece; 3 for $60 or all 4 $75

scholarships are available as part of registration;

town sponsorships may also be available -- indicate interest in your application. Light breakfast or snacks served at each session.

Unit 1: Local Government in Vermont

- Everything you wanted to know about Vermont’s local government (but were afraid to ask). This is a full overview of how VT local government works (and why). Bring all your questions!

Presenters, VT League of Cities and Towns and

Saturday, 10/17, 10:00am - 12:30 pm

Location: Manchester, Town Hall

Unit 3 : Community Led Projects

- How can communities come together to accomplish important projects?

- Learn best practices for building a team and working with your community.

Saturday, 11/7, 1 pm - 3:30 pm Location: Wilmington, Memorial Hall

Presenter: Alyssa Johnson, VCRD

Beyond

- One-on-one follow-up with SVEP staff if desired

- Personalized introductions to projects and leaders in your town

-Connect to ongoing SVEP workshops and programs to support your work

Unit 2: Nonprofit Organizations: basics and Beyond

- Roles and responsibilities of a nonprofit board

- How can you be an effective board member and ensure your board is fulfilling its duties and the organizational mission?

Saturday, 11/7, 10:00am - 12:00 Location: Wilmington, Memorial Hall

Presenter: Sage Ruth, Structural Integrity,

Unit 4: Deepening your Impact

- Workshop: Finding Both/And Solutions to Your Community's Toughest Issues

- For any community leader, learning how to incorporate many visions into one community plan is tricky. This workshop will give you valuable insight into how to do just that.

-Presenter: Susan Clark, author, Slow Democracy

Saturday, 11/14, 1-3:00 pm

Location: Putney Community Center

Apply Now