We are a network of individuals and organizations from communities across Northwest and Central Vermont who share a common goal of preventing substance misuse and promoting wellbeing in our communities.
We meet once a month to share information, make connections, and explore opportunities to work together. Everyone is welcome – network activities are open to anyone interested in participating. The network is supported by a Vermont Lead Prevention Organization grant awarded to United Way of Northwest Vermont through the Vermont Division of Substance Use Programs.
The Division of Substance Use Programs is providing new prevention funding to four regions across the state, through partnership with a Lead Prevention Organization in each region. The purpose of this funding is to increase state, regional, and community capacity to deliver meaningful substance misuse prevention statewide, by addressing all ages and substances, ensuring access, decreasing disparities, and developing a consolidated and holistic approach.
Our Overarching Principles
This network will provide an organizing structure and capacity to support multiple, independent organizations, networks, coalitions,
and individuals, and will help align and leverage their efforts for greater impact.
Engage the Whole Community
Stay Data-Driven and Informed
Maintain Focus on Equity
Allocate Resources Fairly as Informed By Shared Priorities
Advance the Shared Vision
Elevate the Field and Science of Prevention
Backbone Team
Our role is to provide operational and organizational supports so that people can work together toward priorities. United Way of Northwest Vermont is the backbone organization: convening partners, building infrastructure, leveraging resources, and facilitating implementation of the network’s Strategic Plan. Additional backbone support is provided through the Vermont National Guard Counterdrug Program.
Mahat Abdullahi
Prevention Network Manager, UWNWVT
Camille Bakoulis
AmeriCorps VISTA – Prevention Network Coordinator, UWNWVT
Megan Bridges
Director of Partner & Volunteer Engagement, UWNWVT
Amy Carmola
Chief Impact Officer, UWNWVT
Adrienne Lueders-Dumont
Senior Communications Coordinator, UWNWVT
United Way staff also work with Diana Carminati (Strategic Planning Consultant), Data Consultants from the Pacific Institute for Evaluation and Research (PIRE), and are supported by Steven Maluenda (United Way’s Grants and Finance Manager).