Healthy Lamoille Valley hosted its annual fall kick-off event at the Green Mountain Tech Center Community Space to celebrate National Prevention Month and strengthen regional efforts to prevent substance misuse. The theme was “Connect for Action” – building meaningful connections that inspire action for healthier communities. Students from Hazen Union, Lamoille Union, Hyde Park Elementary School, and the Green Mountain Tech Center joined local legislators Rep. Dan Noyes, Rep. Saudia Lamont, Rep. Jed Lipsky, Rep. Richard Bailey, and Senator Richard Westman, along with other community members to connect and explore opportunities for partnership and shared solutions.
Participants were invited to share their insights and observations during a gallery walk of thought-provoking questions submitted by students and legislators on topics related to youth wellness, prevention, and community support. In keeping with the theme of community collaboration, Green Mountain Tech culinary students provided a delicious breakfast. Building on the positive energy, Hyde Park Elementary students led an engaging round of “Would You Rather?”, before attendees transitioned into small group “Table Talk” discussions centered around the posted questions.
Left: Rep. Saudia LaMont with Students. Right: Sen. Richard Westman with Hazen Union Students
“I was impressed and encouraged by the number of students and representatives from across the Lamoille Valley who came together to share their thoughts, experiences, and hopes for the future,” said Katie Black, director of school engagement at the Lamoille Restorative Center. “A special shout out to the Hyde Park Hawks for their enthusiasm and dynamic engagement of the crowd!” Youth participants also shared their appreciation for the opportunity to connect directly with decision-makers. “I appreciate events like this being held so youth can be heard,” one student said. “I think it was very helpful to talk to people about these important topics.” Community members echoed the sentiment, highlighting the event’s collaborative and inclusive atmosphere. “The opportunity to hear from the students was so informative,” one attendee noted. “It was wonderful to have community legislators attending.”
Our annual October community event continues to serve as a cornerstone for prevention efforts across the region. By fostering dialogue, understanding, and collaboration, we aim to create a ripple effect of positive change that strengthens youth and communities throughout the Lamoille Valley region.
Top Left: Rep. Dan Noyes with Green Mountain Tech Allied Health Students. Top Right: Rep. Jed Lipsky with Green Mountain Tech Allied Health Students
Bottom Left: Sen. Richard Westman with Hyde Park Elementary House Captains. Bottom Right: Rep. Jed Lipsky and Rep. Richard Bailey with Hyde Park Elementary Students.