Local Motion, in partnership with AARP Vermont, the Preservation Trust of Vermont, and Front Porch Forum, announced today the recipients of a combined $10,000 in micro-grants from the Streets as Places Program. Launched in March, the program is designed to foster community connections, reimagine neighborhood streets as shared public spaces, and spark lasting local change. Grants were open to Vermont residents organizing events on neighborhood or village streets across the state.
“With over 200 applicants, we are thrilled by the level of interest,” said Richard Amore, Programs Director at Local Motion. “This response shows that Vermonters are hungry for connection, and we hope to expand the program to support even more neighborhood gatherings in the future.”
Funded block parties and street gatherings will take place in the following communities: Barre City, Bennington, Brattleboro, Burlington, Craftsbury, Essex Junction, Huntington, Lyndon, Middlebury, Montpelier, Newbury, North Bennington, Peacham, Pownal, Randolph, Richmond, Rutland, Saxtons River, Washington, White River Junction, and Winooski.
“Vermont’s historic downtowns, villages, and neighborhoods were designed around shared public spaces and vibrant streets where neighbors could gather and connect,” said Ben Doyle, President of the Preservation Trust of Vermont. “We are thrilled to see awardees hosting events in Vermont’s historic downtowns and village centers, bringing people together on neighborhood streets that have long been the heart of community life.”
Awardees will receive grants ranging from $200 to $500, along with hands-on support from Local Motion to bring their events to life. This includes community organizing guidance, assistance with permits, outreach tools, and access to equipment such as cones, signage, temporary paint, and planter boxes. Together, these resources help ensure that first-time organizers and communities with limited capacity can fully participate.
"Neighborhood gatherings make an impact no matter how big or small,” said Michael Wood-Lewis, co-founder and CEO of Front Porch Forum. “Congratulations to all those who are receiving a micro-grant for their upcoming events! We hope that any Vermonter will feel inspired to take a look online at Local Motion's Block Party Guide and consider creative ways to get together with their neighbors in a way that works for you."
“Streets as Places is about creating spaces where people can stay connected as they age,” said Kelly Stoddard Poor, Associate State Director at AARP Vermont. “By bringing neighbors together, we’re helping build communities that support healthy aging and independence.”
For more information about Street as Places, please contact Marcie Gallagher at [email protected] or visit: www.localmotion.org/streets_as_places
