Our Mission
The Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation promotes the well-being of children and families in Vermont by raising funds for community-based prevention programs.
Ensuring that every child in Vermont has a fair chance at success is what drives our work. The money raised by the Foundation supports community-based prevention programs, a ground up approach to making sure children are safe and secure, they make wise choices, they are prepared to be good students, and are encouraged to feel good about themselves.
Funds are granted to programs that meet the following outcomes:
- Vermont’s families are safe, nurturing, stable, and supported.
- Vermont’s children and young people achieve their potential.
Examples of the types of programs supported by VCTF include:
- After-school programs
- High quality child care and preschool
- Literacy initiatives
- Parenting education
- Mentoring programs
- Teen Centers
- Substance abuse prevention programs
How does it work? On the fundraising side of the equation, the Foundation raises money through a variety of ways, including our annual event, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride, and other special events; an annual appeal in the fall; corporate outreach; grant writing; and by building relationships with people who have an affinity for our mission. Vermont Children's Trust Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization. All donations are tax deductible.
On the granting side of the equation, organizations with programs that meet our guidelines are invited to submit requests for grants for review. Vermont Children's Trust Fund grants are given annually, with the grant cycle starting in late January each year.
Our History
The Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation was established in 1991 as a 501 (c)(3) organization to raise private funds for prevention programs that promote the health and well-being of Vermont children and families.
In 2009, the Foundation entered into an agreement with the State of Vermont to manage the Children’s Trust Fund on the State’s behalf.
In 2022, the Vermont State Legislature made statutory changes- eliminating the Fund such that all dollars flow directly to the Foundation. The Foundation now receives money through a state allocation, 100% of the money donated through the VCTF Tax Check-off line of the Vermont State Income Tax forms. This streamlined structure allows for reduced expenses, and more money being directed to programs serving children and families in Vermont.
If you would like to learn more about the Foundation, please call us at 802.951.8604.
Our Team
Board of Directors
The following board members devote time and energy on a volunteer basis to help us fulfill our mission:
William Allen
Molly Bucci, Esq., President
Matthew Campbell, Vice President
Julie Elitzer
Talia Glesner, EdD
Austin J. Hart
Kaitlyn Kodzis
Matt Logue, Treasurer
Lee McLendon
Dawn Minter
Bruce Parmenter
Deborah Peate
Nubia Pickering
Mary Stanley, MD
Margaret Tandoh, MD
Steve Zatarain
Staff
Amanda Ahmadi, Executive Director
Theo Clark, Program Manager
Emeritus Board Members
Brenda Bean
Sandy First
Lynne von Trapp
Honorary Board Members
Governor Phil Scott
Governor Madeleine M. Kunin
Governor Howard Dean
Governor James H. Douglas
Governor Peter Shumlin
Lewis First, MD
Joan Hoff
Senator Patrick Leahy
Senator Bernie Sanders
Representative Peter Welch
Katharine Montstream
Founding Benefactors
Faith Bieler
James and Pamela Chaisson
Stokes and Mary Jane Gentry
Jack Lancaster
Elizabeth Steele
Turtle Fur Co.
Johannes and Lynne von Trapp
Joe and Marcia Welch
Gertrude J. Winde Memorial
Brenda Ross Winter
FAQ's
What does VCTF believe?
Every child is a source of unique talent and abilities, of promise and possibilities. We believe each child deserves the chance to realize his or her innate potential; to grow up in a nurturing environment with opportunities that feed the body, mind and soul; to have a meaningful connection to the community in which they live; and to be protected from harm. We know that engaged, healthy and educated children grow into self-reliant, contributing adults. Taking care of our children now ensures a stronger future for Vermont.
What does VCTF do?
We fund prevention programs for children and families throughout Vermont. VCTF is one of the few remaining funding sources that support new initiatives and innovative programs conceptualized at the community level. Our focus continues to be the grassroots, direct service organizations who provide primary prevention programs based on community need. From isolated rural communities to small city neighborhoods, VCTF provides seed money in every county of the state to help incubate new programs through grant applications for a one year pilot. Successful pilots then apply for a three year grant. This seed money with three year funding helps organizations establish their footing and work toward sustainability. It’s a formula that works. Small amounts of funding have a meaningful and lasting impact. Many of the programs we funded in our early years are thriving today.
VCTF funds are granted to programs that meet the following outcomes:
- Vermont’s families are safe, nurturing, stable, and supported.
- Vermont’s children and young people achieve their potential.
The programs supported by VCTF work to prevent physical and emotional abuse, substance abuse, school failure and violence, and help ensure that every child in Vermont has a fair chance for success. Examples of programs include:
After-school and out-of-school programs, Preschool programs, Literacy initiatives, Music, Arts, Theater, Outdoor adventures, Parenting education, Mentoring programs, Substance abuse prevention programs
What is the grant cycle?
Applications are due in March and awards are made in June. The grant year is September 1 - August 31 with payment of grant funds in September and March.
Who is eligible to receive grants?
Non-profit organizations, as well as schools and municipalities are eligible. Individuals and for-profit organizations are not eligible for VCTF grants.