As an organization, one of our main values is inclusivity and equity; it is through this lens we work to grow Vermont's outdoor recreation industry.
In partnership with Vermont Adaptive, we are constructing as much of the Velomont Trail, including trail tread and bridge deck widths, to meet standards suitable for adaptive riders. We contract builders familiar with adaptive riding standards while also having actual athletes consult plans and projects as well as test new trail to provide feedback.
All huts and hostels along the trail will be ADA compliant, as existing Chittenden Book and Grout Pond Huts are already.
In addition to local and tourism-based recreation, we also partner with other nonprofits, after school programs, and public schools to bring underserved students onto the trails and into the backcountry at no cost. The FOREST Program (Fostering Outdoor Recreation, Sustainability, Education, and Teamwork) currently serves students and families in Addison and Caledonia counties, with plans to double or triple offerings each year as new huts and trails are constructed. Our future vision includes partnerships with myriad demographic and age ranges in order to provide access to as many Vermonters as possible, purposefully including those who have historically been excluded or underserved. We are working to hire a diverse set of backcountry guides and educators to represent varying demographics in order to help participants feel safe and to best tailor the curriculum appropriately.
As of yet, our staff and board has representation from a multitude of genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and financial backgrounds. However, it is vital to us that we actively invite new members of varying identities to join us if they have a passion and interest in outdoor recreation. We know that there are voices missing in our group, and while we don't know the perfect way to ensure we do better, we are working to improve each step of the way. We have done away with antiquated annual financial contribution requirements from board members, and aim to pay board members a stipend beginning in 2024.
