Grantees

Vermont Family Network (VFN) empowers and supports all Vermont families of children with special needs. VFN’s program Puppets in Education (PiE) uses life-sized puppets to teach children how to keep themselves safe and healthy and to appreciate each other’s differences through educational programs for PK–8 students. PiE programs model effective leadership and problem-solving skills and demonstrate respect and inclusion in all communities. For 41 years, PiE has connected with children through powerful puppet programs that address social and emotional issues. PiE reaches 10,000 children annually in VT & NY schools. We promote empathy and kindness while educating students about strategies that break the cycles of abuse and bullying.

Vermont Family Network (VFN) empowers and supports all Vermont families of children with special needs. VFN’s program Puppets in Education (PiE) uses life-sized puppets to teach educational programs for PK–6 students. PiE programs model effective leadership and problem-solving skills and demonstrate respect and inclusion in all communities. For 44 years, PiE has connected with children through powerful puppet programs that address social and emotional issues. PiE reaches 10,000 children annually in VT & NY schools. Their pilot Resiliency Program will take students on a journey of one puppet’s resiliency in the face of hardship, promoting engaging discussions that address the key elements of building resiliency.

To provide assistance to home day care providers to partner with area schools to offer preschool services/education.

The PROSPER program fosters the positive growth and development of middle-school youth by strengthening families, building skills and reducing youth problem behaviors (e.g., substance abuse, violence and other problems). UVM PROSPER will implement both the Family Program two times per year for 6th graders and their parents as well as implement the in-school program for all 7th graders at Lyndon Town School and Camels Hump.

Support the expansion of EW! VT's programs to at least two new school sites. Funding will also support staff time for the development of processes and protocols for well-planned and successful future expansion

A summer camp for leadership skills for adolescents.

A summer program for one week in Vershire, VT.

Develop and run a one week outdoor leadership training program for yough aged 13-15.