United Way of Northwest Vermont (UWNWVT) launched the Northwest and Central Vermont Prevention Network in December 2021. The Prevention Network is bringing the region together around a holistic and comprehensive approach to preventing substance misuse and promoting wellbeing in our communities.
This work began with a Prevention Center of Excellence grant from the Vermont Department of Health’s Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Programs and is guided by a 5-Year Strategic Plan that was developed through conversation with more than 100 partners in our region. United Way provides backbone support and dedicated staff to help convene, guide, and amplify the impact of Prevention Network partners.
United Way also subgrants funding to Prevention Network partners including the funding of 8 special projects in the Spring of 2023 aimed at reducing the onset and prevalence of substance misuse among youth and young adults in Vermont.
Check out the Prevention Network website to learn more about this work. The Network hosts monthly meetings that anyone in our community is welcome to join!
In July 2023, UWNWVT was selected by the State of Vermont Department of Health, Division of Substance Use (DSU) as one of four Prevention Lead Organizations across the state. In this role, UWNWVT is leading substance misuse prevention activities and sub-granting funds to community prevention partners located in Chittenden, Franklin, Grand Isle, and Washington counties. Read our press release for more information on our expanded role supporting substance misuse prevention across the lifespan.