The Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (VABVI), a non-profit organization founded in 1926 with the assistance of Helen Keller, is the only private agency to offer training, services, and support to visually impaired Vermonters from birth to end of life. Each year we serve over 1,500 clients. Our mission is to enable Vermonters whether blind or visually impaired, to be more independent, to cultivate adaptive skills and to improve their quality of life.

Committee on Temporary Shelter (COTS) is a nonprofit organization nationally recognized as a model due to the successful outcomes of our programs. COTS provides emergency shelter, support services, prevention resources, and housing for those without homes or at risk of homelessness. We Believe: In the value and dignity of every human life That housing is a fundamental human right That emergency shelter is not the solution to homelessness Since 1982 COTS has been serving people experiencing homelessness and at risk Vermont community members in Chittenden County and beyond. We have multiple shelters to meet the needs of our individuals and families, including: the Waystation, our overnight shelter; the Daystation, our daytime drop in shelter; and our Family Shelters, specifically for parents with children. But we don't stop there...we go beyond providing safe shelters for those in need. We also have a team dedicated to supporting currently or at risk individuals experiencing homelessness with finding resources available to them through state and federal programs, assistance from other local community resources, and other additional support as needed. We believe in empowering these individuals to ensure a transition out of shelter housing into long term affordable housing is attainable and sustainable.

United Way of Northwest Vermont's mission is to build a stronger tri-county area by mobilizing our community to improve people's lives. We unite our community to solve complex problems and harness the power of people to create a stronger Northwest Vermont.

• Delivered comprehensive employment and transition services to 40 youth, facilitating their integration into the workforce. • Spearheaded training sessions with local businesses and job seekers, fostering meaningful connections and enhancing employment and retention rates. • Implemented innovative strategies to address barriers to employment, resulting in increased job employee and employer satisfaction.

Vermont Works for Women’s mission is to promote economic justice by advancing gender equity and supporting women and youth at every stage of their career journeys. For over 35 years VWW has been engaging women, girls, and gender-expansive individuals in hands-on career education and exploration programs to help them overcome barriers, build confidence, and pursue their employment goals. We also provide gender equity services for schools and employers to improve educational and workplace cultures for women. Learn more about our programs at www.vtworksforwomen.org/programs

We Unite Communities: Our mission is to provide a forum for mutual support and training for local United Ways. We keep a broad, statewide perspective and support each local United Way by encouraging collaboration and providing support.

Formed in 1974, Steps to End Domestic Violence (formerly Women Helping Battered Women) is the largest provider of domestic violence services in Vermont. In addition to providing emergency shelter and housing advocacy, Steps to End Domestic Violence offers 24-hour hotline services, legal advocacy, programs for children and many educational outreach programs. We believe that all people have the right to live without fear of abuse – sexual, physical, emotional, or financial. Our vision is an end of physical, sexual, emotional and economic abuse and to promote cultural systems that foster justice, equity and safety. Our mission is to support, identify options and advocate for those who have experienced domestic violence and serve as a catalyst for social change.