GROW Program directly relocates 5 new young professionals and 3 new families to the region over summer
When the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce undertook a new relocation program in 2024, executive director Matt Harrington knew the challenges they would face. “Having successfully run our Stay-To-Stay relocation program before COVID, we had first-hand knowledge of the magnetism of this beautiful region but also the unique logistical challenges of such a venture,” said Harrington.
The new program, Grants for Relocation Outreach Work (GROW), is part of a state-wide effort to address the demographic and workforce issues facing every region in Vermont.
According to Census data and The Vermont Futures Project, the state faces shortages in two key demographics, children and working-age adults, with the 25-45 group facing significant deficits compared with the rest of the US.
Whether it is housing, demographics, job opportunities, or simple geographics, Harrington and his staff have been at the forefront of these challenges for the larger part of a decade, working with community leaders and partners to help fill the need for new families, workforce, and young professionals in the region.
After hiring a full-time relocation specialist through the GROW grant this past spring, the Chamber has since re-bolstered its relocation efforts. Luis Lascari, the Chamber’s GROW Specialist, works to attract new leads and communicates directly with those interested in moving to the region, answering their questions, assisting with housing, and connecting them with community resources.
“The state’s demographic issues are no secret,” says Lascari. “We need more families and young adults here now, but most importantly, we need them to see Bennington County as a sustainable, long-term home.”
One of the stumbling blocks, Lascari noted, is local pushback, mainly due to housing shortages.
“There is a very important need for local and affordable housing for those living here. However, people are also leaving. That’s the reality. We cannot have a net negative population trend when so many employers are struggling to hire. So we see our mission as one of economic vitality first and foremost.”
Fast forward to October, and the Chamber and Lascari have directly assisted in the relocation of three new families as well as five young professionals to the region with a dozen more in the process of relocating.
Many of these newly welcomed Vermonters say they decided to relocate here because of the sense of community as well as outdoor recreation.
Normadeane Armstrong, one of the very first New Vermonters the program helped relocate this summer, spoke about her experience and her new home.
“I believe that Vermont is a perfect fit for those seeking a more laid-back lifestyle infused with a sense of adventure and a deep appreciation for nature. There’s something truly special about this place that resonates with people who love the outdoors.
As for my favorite things about Vermont, I would have to say my top choices include the breathtaking trees, the majestic mountains, the warm and welcoming people, and of course, the delicious cider donuts and rich maple syrup. Each of these elements contributes to the unique charm and beauty of Vermont, making it a truly wonderful place to call home.”
The GROW Program in Southwestern Vermont will see a large uptick in relocation leads starting in January 2025 as the state launches a nationwide advertising campaign through its media platform ThinkVT. The program will also launch its own advertising campaigns through their own regional media platforms LiveVT and RelocateToVermont.com.
For more information about this program, please email relocate@bennington.com