United Way of Northwest Vermont has announced $630,000 in subgrants to 16 organizations as part of a 3-year investment that will exceed $2 million. The funding advances community-led efforts that build protective factors, expand youth and family supports, and address root causes that contribute to substance misuse. 

The funding comes from the State of Vermont Department of Health’s Division of Substance Use Programs as part of the state’s regional approach to substance misuse prevention. United Way serves as the Lead Prevention Organization for the Burlington, St. Albans, and Barre Health Districts, where it leads regional prevention strategies and distributes subgrants to prevention partners.  

This is the second year of a 3-year funding cycle. Continuation applications were reviewed by a Funding Committee of local professionals representing diverse sectors including health care, designated mental health and substance misuse agencies, and regional planning commissions. The committee also approved a 3% cost of living funding increase to each organization. 

“Continued funding matters because prevention takes time, trust, and sustained community effort,” said Beth Whitlock, United Way of Northwest Vermont’s Director of Prevention and Housing Initiatives. “These grants allow local partners to deepen proven strategies, reach communities that are too often underserved, and strengthen the relationships and supports that help people thrive.” 

 Funded projects include youth mentoring and leadership programs, culturally responsive prevention efforts, supports for parents and families, recovery-informed community services, and initiatives focused on rural communities, immigrant and refugee communities, LGBTQIA+ communities, and people experiencing housing instability. 

 “Every young person deserves to have someone in their corner who believes in them. For BIPOC youth, seeing mentors who understand their culture and experiences can help them feel like they belong and that their dreams are possible,” said Patrice Lumumba, Founder and Executive Director of the BIPOC Youth Mentorship Program. “Through our program, we create connections that support youth, celebrate who they are, and help them grow into confident leaders in our community. Continued funding helps us keep these important relationships strong.” 

 Building on this year’s investment, United Way of Northwest Vermont plans to issue a new Request for Funding Proposals in the coming months for prevention organizations serving the Burlington, St. Albans, and Barre Health Districts. The RFP will seek projects that complement the current portfolio of funded partners. 

 To learn more about regional substance misuse prevention efforts or sign up for updates, visit www.preventionnetworknwvt.org. 

Click on the link and/or images below to see a full list:

Prevention Funding Recipients (2026-2027)