VERMONT
WELCOME WAGON
PROJECT
NORTHEAST KINGDOM
Are you a transplant who recently found themselves in the Northeast Kingdom? Or perhaps you grew up here, moved away, and are now back in your home state. Are you tied to Vermont by school, friends and family, or an outdoor activity?
We know the Northeast Kingdom (or NEK, pronounced "ehn-ee-kay") is large and geographically dispersed. It can be socially isolating and challenging to build community, especially for newcomers. We want to provide you with the opportunity to learn more about the region and ask honest questions with honest answers about the ins and outs of the community: where’s the nearest laundry mat? Where do you go out to eat? Who can I find restaurants and updated hours? What’s the childcare situation like? What CSAs are in the area? And also, what is a CSA? (see below)
​
What is a CSA? It's community supported agriculture. Generally, you purchase a "share" from a local farm, which may or may not include some work hours. In return, you get fresh, local produce and goods from the farm periodically.
​
Our Chapter is Unique.
Because we serve Orleans, Caledonia, and Essex counties, we prefer to see ourselves as neighbors to anyone in the NEK. Meet the NEK team here.
​​
​​​​​​
​
​
The NEK VWWP hosts events periodically to create a low-stress environment for hosts, community members, and local leaders to meet and greet New Vermonters. This is a great option for Hosts to meet the network, welcome newcomers, and build community - which is what the VWWP is all about! We strive for monthly events and rotate where they occur, to provide opportunities throughout the region. ​
​
Who can be a Community Host in the NEK?
Anyone who is committed to providing a warm welcome to New Vermonters may join the Welcome Wagon as a Host. We believe that diversity helps our communities to grow, prosper, and become resilient, and welcome Hosts to join as being resources after a year or so of residence in the Northeast Kingdom.
​
Who can participate as a New Vermonter in the NEK?
Anyone who is new to a town or city in the Northeast Kingdom can participate as a New Vermonter. Some people don't find out about our community until after a year or two, and we do not turn them away! Our mission is to help you feel settled and connected so you feel like this is home, whether you moved yesterday or two years ago.
Our Partner Organizations
The NEK chapter of the VWWP is funded by grants made available by ThinkVT, and administered by the Northeast Kingdom Chamber of Commerce. The NEK Chapter of VWWP is also a sister organization to the NEK Young Professionals Network, and occasionally provides opportunities to engage with either of these other entities.
LOCAL PARTNERS
