On a beautiful October evening, residents of Westminster and surrounding towns came together for an evening of conversation, connection, and community. Hosted through GROW SoVermont, BDCC’s relocation and newcomer welcome initiative (supported by the statewide ThinkVermont program), the mixer brought together new arrivals and longtime residents eager to strengthen local ties.
Held in the home and art studio of recent newcomers from Arlington, MA, the event was a lively and warm gathering. Attendees swapped information about their favorite Mexican restaurants and community events, offered to share skills, and wondered if there were any batting cages to be found in the region. The guests left plotting future potlucks and game nights, having made new connections and friendships.
The hosts, Kathy and Josh, had thought they were buying a vacation home when they first visited Westminster, enticed by the amazing views overlooking the Connecticut River. But, after their first weekend here they never went back. Josh works remotely with the occasional commute to Cambridge, MA, while Kathy has embraced her art full time. Her work can be seen at kathykemp.onfabrik.com/ and during the Putney Craft Tour.
GROW SoVermont helps newcomers put down roots in Southern Vermont by connecting them to housing, employment, volunteer networks, and community events. By fostering these relationships, the program not only eases the transition for new residents but also helps strengthen the region’s social and economic fabric.
About GROW SoVermont
GROW is a statewide initiative created to welcome newcomers to the region—from recent relocators to returning residents and those planning a move to Vermont. As a regional partner in this network, GROW SoVermont is part of BDCC’s Welcoming Communities programming to foster thriving communities and a robust regional workforce. The GROW network is a program of Think Vermont and is funded in part by Vermont’s Agency of Commerce and Community Development. For more information please visit sovermont.com/grow.
