Local Resources
Charitable Organizations
Committee on Temporary Shelter (COTS)
The Committee on Temporary Shelter provides shelter, services, and housing for people who are homeless or marginally housed in Vermont. Ed has volunteered in their job program at the Daystation since 2009. This program helps individuals in their job search by offering guidance and providing both material and moral support. His involvement in this program includes teaching computer skills and assisting with the writing of cover letters and resumes.
Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity
The effectiveness of Habitat for Humanity's ability to provide affordable housing is widely recognized throughout the country and internationally. The Green Mountain chapter is also a leader in sustainable building as for more than 10 years, they have been building 5-star energy rated houses and are in the process of building the first house in New England to meet the Passive House Institute's passive solar standards. Ed has volunteered and encouraged his coworkers to help in the construction of these homes.
Humane Society of Chittenden County
The Humane Society of Chittenden County looks after the welfare of animals in Chittenden County. While dogs and cats make up the majority of animals that come through their doors, they have housed numerous species including a lobster. While not a strict no-kill shelter, they only euthanize for medical reasons, and when space permits they bring in animals scheduled for euthanization from other shelters. Beyond finding new homes for animals, they are involved in assisting in animal abuse investigations, reducing overpopulation, keeping animals in their existing homes both through , and education. Starting in 2000, Ed volunteered here for five years. He served this organization in a variety of capacities: including dog walking, dog training, fostering animals, and assisting at events.
As their mission states says they help "women and girls recognize their potential and explore, pursue and excel in work that leads to their economic independence." Ed's aunt, Jayne Sheridan works as the Deputy Director of this valuable organization. Their Step Up programs are some of the programs that they are most known for. These programs teach women the necessary skills to find employment in the construction and police trades. Pais Architects has worked with a graduate from this program and found her work to be of excellent quality.
Community Organizations
The Front Porch Forum is an online network that works to brings neighborhoods closer together. It started in one neighborhood of Burlington and has spread to cover Chittenden County, parts of Grand Isle County, and Starksboro. It has been remarkably effective in allowing communications between neighbors. For example, in my neighborhood of Burlington in March of 2009 out of approximately 190 households, there are 164 members. The high percentage of users and the civil discourse has made this forum particularly effective in relaying information and getting advice from neighbors.
Shop7VT is a locally owned website and newsletter that promotes locally owned businesses along Route 7. While most of the businesses are retail establishments in Chittenden County, it also extends into Addison County and represents professional services as well. Shop7VT also offers discounts and highlights shared wisdom from these businesses.