Organization:
Vermont Parks Forever, the foundation for Vermont State Parks
Posted: October 17, 2022
Organization Description
Vermont Parks Forever (VPF) is the nonprofit foundation for Vermont’s 55 state parks. Founded in 2013, VPF enhances and protects the state parks by inspiring stewardship of natural places, providing innovative educational experiences, and improving access for those who would otherwise be unable to experience all the parks have to offer.
A staff of 3 part-time employees work remotely to ensure the growth, success and impact of VPF’s main initiatives:
Park Access Fund:
Since 2016, Vermont Parks Forever provides free park passes to hundreds of Vermonters, including foster families, youth programs, front-line workers, those with developmental disabilities, BIPOC communities, new Americans, mental health clients and those with limited mobility, who face barriers to visiting and enjoying time in the parks. In 2022 over 5,500 free day visits were granted out to over 25 community partners and Vermonters in all 14 counties. Read more about park access here:
https://vermontparksforever.org/park-access-fund/
Natural Connections:
VPF believes in the importance of innovative education and invests annually in nature interpretation, programming and educational materials in Vermont State Parks.
A multi-year public/private partnership with Vermont Parks Forever, Vermont State Parks, and ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain will launch the first Natural Connections nature center renovation in Groton, VT. The Groton renovation features museum-quality interactive learning opportunities highlighting Groton’s geology and its natural and cultural history. Groton’s nature center, which serves 7 area parks, will require no admission fee. Read more about Natural Connections here:
https://vermontparksforever.org/natural-connections/
VPF BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The support of Board Members is critical to the success of VPF. The Board is made up of people who are passionate about the outdoors and providing access to the state park system. They bring their skills and experience to this small organization and are helping build a strong foundation for VPF's future.
During their 3-year term, board members attend quarterly meetings and devote a couple hours a month to furthering VPF’s mission and/or participating on a committee.
Applications from BIPOC individuals, women, and members of underrepresented communities are highly encouraged and VPF staff members are happy to answer any questions from interested applicants. Thank you for your consideration!
Organization's Approach to Diversity, Equity, Belonging, & Inclusion
Vermont Parks Forever is engaging its resources to raise awareness and remove barriers to ensure that parks and natural spaces are inviting to everyone. VPF commits to continually working toward a future where all people feel welcome and renewed through their visits to Vermont’s state parks.
In support of this work, VPF added two paid student interns in 2021 to increase our focus on park access and inclusion. We currently have one paid intern working on a park access survey project to find out more about who isn't visiting Vermont's state parks and why. Read more and take the survey here:
https://vermontparksforever.org/park-access-survey/
The Board has also committed funds for justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion training for the board and staff in 2023. Read more about VPF's JEDI commitment here:
https://vermontparksforever.org/justice-equity-diversity-and-inclusion/
Board Terms and Term Limits
3 year terms, 2 term limit
Frequency & Duration of Board Meetings
The Board meets quarterly for a half day meeting and now alternates between virtual and in-person meetings.
Stipends for Board Membership
Board members are not compensated but may be reimbursed for qualifying expenses.
If Interested, Send Letter of Interest to the Following Point of Contact:
Sarah Alberghini Winters, Executive Director
Point of Contact Email
info@vermontparksforever.org