A coalition of Vermont nonprofit organizations is hosting a statewide organizing event next month aimed at bringing together advocates, community leaders and residents to collaborate on social, environmental and economic issues.
The 2026 Vermont Changemakers Summit is scheduled for April 11, 2026 at Harwood Union High School. The free event will convene organizers, nonprofit leaders and community members for a day of workshops, training and networking focused on community organizing and advocacy.
The summit is organized by the Vermont Natural Resources Council and Vermont Conservation Voters in partnership with a coalition of nonprofit groups working on issues including food access, economic opportunity, environmental protection, public health and social justice.
Organizers say the gathering is intended to strengthen relationships among advocacy groups and grassroots organizers across Vermont while helping participants develop practical organizing skills.
“Attending this organizing summit requires no prior experience,” organizers said in an announcement about the event. “All we need from you is a day of your time and the passion to resist injustice and build community.”
The event will feature a series of workshops and trainings led by experienced organizers and policy advocates. Planned sessions include introductory organizing strategies, navigating municipal government to effect local change and guidance on legal rights during protests.
Organizers say the summit is designed for people with a range of experience levels, from those new to activism to seasoned advocates. Participants will also have opportunities to connect with nonprofit organizations and grassroots groups from around the state.
According to organizers, the event will focus on sharing strategies, tools and resources to support local organizing efforts and build stronger coalitions among groups working on overlapping issues.
The summit is also intended to spark new collaborations and ideas for community-based action throughout Vermont, organizers said.
“Our goal is to create lasting connections between the nonprofit advocacy community and decentralized grassroots organizations,” the announcement said.
Attendance is free, but participants are asked to register in advance.
Organizers said attendees will be required to follow a code of conduct designed to ensure the event runs smoothly and remains nonpartisan. Activities that disrupt event operations, campaign-related electioneering by candidates or officeholders, possession of weapons, or the use of alcohol or illegal drugs will not be permitted.
The event is being held at Harwood Union High School but is not sponsored or endorsed by the Harwood Unified Union School District, organizers said. The views expressed at the summit will represent those of the sponsoring organizations.
Organizers say the summit aims to strengthen connections among Vermonters working toward community change and to support collaborative efforts addressing challenges facing the state.
Register and find more information here at vnrc.org/vtchangemakerssummit/
