One Vermont Coalition is an example of a dynamic coalition that is having an impact on the Vermont Legislature during this tough economic year. One Vermont is  a “coalition of citizens, organizations and businesses committed to state policies, programs and public structures that help build a society that works for all Vermonters”.  With dozens of members—serving children, people with disabilities, elders as well as the education, housing, agriculture and health care sectors–they’ve been extremely busy stemming the loss of critical federal funds and reduction in human services.

One Vermont started their work before their legislative season through a series of advocacy trainings, engaging partners  and developing an action plan. They’ve remained a steady presence in the legislature and actively engaged the broader public through public actions taken by their coalition members such as an online Rally for Public Investment and the on-going collection of “post card stories”. These stories are critical to their success.

Coalition Chair Barbara Postman reminds us: “We know that the needs for services is not going away and, in many cases, is growing.  What we must do is tell the story so that ordinary Vermonters will understand the direction the state is taking.”  For more information go to www.voicesforkids.org or become a member at www.onevermont.org