Southwestern Vermont Chamber Foundation

A Decade of Vision.
A New Chapter of Impact.

Group of people sitting under a tree in a park, engaged in conversation in southwestern vermont.

For more than a century, the Southwestern Vermont Chamber has helped shape the economic life of our region. Supporting businesses, strengthening partnerships, and championing the spirit that defines The Shires of Southwestern Vermont.

Now, as we look toward the next decade, we are taking a bold step forward.

The Southwestern Vermont Chamber Foundation was created to meet this moment: to respond to the challenges and opportunities facing our communities with deeper investment, stronger collaboration, and long-term solutions.

This is philanthropy aligned with economic vitality.

This is investment in place.

This is our invitation to build the future together.

Why a Foundation?

The Foundation exists for one reason: to accelerate progress in ways the Chamber alone cannot.

As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the Foundation enables us to:

  • Attract philanthropic investment and tax-deductible gifts

  • Secure state and federal grant funding

  • Develop innovative education, workforce, and leadership programs

  • Support research, data, and regional insight

  • Strengthen long-term community reinvestment

This structure allows donors, businesses, families, and partners to invest directly in the future of Southwestern Vermont — with clarity, confidence, and measurable impact.

'Citizen of the Year, Tom Dee' from the vermont chamber. 'Advancing the Vermont Economy.' Event in southwest vermont.

Leadership & Stewardship

The Foundation is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors committed to strong governance, responsible

stewardship, and lasting regional impact:

  • Chairperson: Shannon McLenithan

  • Vice Chair: Caryn Packard

  • Director: Ahmad Yassir

  • Director: JJ Williams

Together, they bring experience, accountability, and vision — ensuring the Foundation’s work

remains mission-driven and community-focused.

Current Priorities

The Foundation will focus on building, listening, and laying the groundwork for long-term impact by:

  • Establishing strong operational and financial systems

  • Conducting research to identify the region’s most pressing challenges and opportunities

  • Launching entrepreneurial education and workforce programming

  • Expanding destination marketing and regional storytelling

  • Hosting community convenings to foster collaboration and shared solutions

Group of five people on a stage holding a large ceremonial check for $25,000 made out to the Southwest Chamber Foundation.