NEK Collaborative

06/17/2026

The NEK Collaborative was excited to attend the RISE Summit hosted by the UVM Leahy Institute for Rural Partnerships!

Senator Patrick Leahy himself was there as the gathering brought together representatives across government, universities, community organizations, and businesses to explore how collaboration can help solve real challenges facing rural communities.

Rep. Becca Balint kicked off the summit by sharing the story of our Kingdom’s very own Haskell Free Library and Opera House, an inspiring example right here in the NEK of neighbors crossing literal borders to come together to open literal doors for their community.

It was also great to spot a few familiar NEK faces in the crowd, make new connections, and yes... enjoy the impressive donut wall!

06/09/2026

🎉 BIG NEWS! 🎉 The NEK Collaborative Board of Directors is thrilled to announce Abby Long as our new Executive Director!

Since stepping into the Interim Executive Director role last Fall, Abby has helped lead the Collaborative through a period of renewed momentum, deep regional engagement, and meaningful progress on key priorities for Vermont's Northeast Kingdom!

Abby shares, “The Northeast Kingdom is our chosen home. It is an honor to serve as Executive Director, and I am incredibly grateful for the trust placed in me.”

Please join us in congratulating Abby as she begins this exciting new chapter of leadership for our region!

Read the full press release here: https://www.nekcollaborative.org/news-2

06/03/2026

Join Northeast Kingdom Organizing, Kingdom United Resilience & Recovery , Vermont Workers' Center, Glover Equity, Kairos Center, The Center for an Agricultural Economy and more THIS SATURDAY, 11-3 pm for a Survival Revival: A People’s Fair, a FREE event at the Barton Fairgrounds. All are welcome!


Folks can expect:
-Muck & Gut Flood Training and Buckets
-Dumpster - dispose your household trash for free (no electronics, appliances, mattresses please)
-People’s Health Clinic - blood pressure, glucose checks and more.
-Kids activities
-Free food
-Song, artmaking, speakout and more!

05/28/2026

A major congratulations to Weidmann Electrical Technology on their grand opening celebrating a significant investment and expansion, a true reflection of their “commitment to the St. Johnsbury community and Vermont.”

The celebration brought together company leaders from around the world, customers, employees, and NEK community members in an unforgettable event complete with a red carpet, aerial acrobats, and even torch lightings!

As Secretary of Vermont Agency of Commerce & Community Development Lindsay Kurrle shared, Weidmann is one of the “most important employers and economic anchors in the Northeast Kingdom.” Now supporting 400+ jobs in our region with this expansion.

We’re also proud to recognize Weidmann as a valued supporter of the NEK Collaborative and thankful for the leadership of Rob Begin, Head of Sales for the Americas, who serves on the Collaborative Board. Exciting things ahead for Weidmann and Vermont's Northeast Kingdom

05/27/2026

Access to safe, stable housing is the foundation of strong communities!

The NEK Collaborative is honored to be co-hosting today’s leasing event with RuralEdge for the Newport Crossing Apartments 10 AM–4 PM at 119 Clermont Terrace, Newport, VT. Potential renters are invited to stop by for application assistance and a tour of the new apartment communities.

Newport Crossing will bring 40 permanently affordable homes to the area with amenities including community spaces, lake views, EV chargers, Wi-Fi, and more. Apply online at ruraledge.org/apply or request a paper application by calling 802-535-3555.

05/22/2026

Another Housing Hubbub Highlight!

RuralEdge and the NEK Collaborative invite you to a Newport Crossing Apartments leasing event May 27th 10am-4pm 119 Clermont Terrace, Newport.

This event is reserved for potential renters. Anyone interested in leasing a unit is welcome to stop by for application assistance and upon completion, a brief tour of the properties. RSVP 802-535-3555.

In total, the properties will provide 40 new permanently affordable housing units for the Newport area, while remediating two brownfield sites. Units feature newly built family-sized townhouses and smaller garden flats near the Town School. The renovated historic Sacred Heart Convent features smaller units with views and an easy walk to downtown.

05/21/2026

The NEK Collaborative spent the morning with the incredible 8th grade “World Issues” class at The Riverside School, an independent NEK school. The class decided the biggest issue worth studying might actually be right in their own backyard.

Their service learning project is focused on the Town of Westmore's South End of Lake Willoughby and the changes they’ve seen happen there in their own lifetimes. Together, alongside Molly Willard from Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation, we explored questions around biodiversity and lake health, forest management and recreation, and the balance between tourism, economy, and protecting the places we love most.

The future is in good hands with students asking thoughtful, curious, and courageous questions about their communities!

05/12/2026

What an incredible day exploring new pathways to affordable homeownership throughout Vermont's Northeast Kingdom!

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who attended the Mobile Home Infill Program (MHIP) Tours! The 50+ prospective homebuyers, community members, partners, employers, developers, and funders - your enthusiasm, questions, and support made this event a true success!

Together with RuralEdge, the Vermont State Housing Authority, and the State of Vermont, the NEK Collaborative was proud to showcase how MHIP is helping bring NEW, high-quality, energy-efficient, and affordable homes to our NEK communities.

This innovative program is creating real opportunities for Vermonters with affordable home prices, financial assistance, reduced mortgage rates, and more. Learn more at affordablehomes.vermont.gov

We are deeply grateful to everyone working to strengthen housing opportunities in our region. The momentum is real, and this is only the beginning! Thanks for capturing the moments 📸 One World U Photography oneworldu.com

05/11/2026

This morning, the NEK Collaborative was grateful to attend the final legislative breakfast of the session hosted by Vermont's North Country Chamber of Commerce at The East Side Restaurant & Pub.

The conversation reflected both the challenges and momentum shaping our region, from discussions around the repeal of Act 181 and the road rule, to continued investments in CTE education and the final push toward the close of the legislative session.

What made the morning especially meaningful was taking time to honor the people who have dedicated so much to Vermont's Northeast Kingdom. It was a privilege to celebrate Rep. Mike Marcotte for his 22 years of service representing the NEK in the Statehouse. We also heard from Rep. Larry Labor as he announced his retirement from the legislature.

Public service requires tremendous commitment, care, and perseverance, and we are deeply grateful for the leadership both Representatives have given to our region.

05/06/2026