New Vermonters Build Connections at Lake Paran
Originally published by the Bennington Banner in August 2026
Nearly 60 new residents gathered at Lake Paran for Southwestern Vermont’s third annual New Vermonter Welcome Picnic, part of the region's growing effort to make relocation about more than simply getting people across the state line.
The event complements the Southwestern Vermont Chamber’s work through the state-supported GROW Relocation and Retention program. Prospective residents receive individual assistance as they navigate employment, housing, child care and the practical questions involved in moving to Vermont. Once people arrive, retention programs create opportunities to form friendships, professional relationships and stronger connections with the community.
That distinction matters economically. Southwestern Vermont’s workforce challenge cannot be addressed only by creating jobs or advertising open positions. The region must also attract people and then give them reasons to stay. A picnic may appear simple compared with a multimillion-dollar development project, but building social connection and belonging is an increasingly important piece of a successful talent-attraction strategy.
