Chris Bernier of Waterbury Center, has joined Special Olympics Vermont as the organization's new Director of Marketing and Development.
His responsibilities will include working with individual and corporate donors to cultivate long term, mutually beneficial relationships. Special Olympics is an unprecedented global movement which, through quality sports training and competition, improves the lives of people with intellectual disabilities and, in turn, the lives of everyone they touch. Special Olympics Vermont empowers people with intellectual disabilities to realize their full potential and develop their skills through year-round sports training and competition. As a result, Special Olympics Vermont athletes become fulfilled and productive members of their families and the communities in which they live. Special Olympics is an experience that is energizing, healthy, skillful, welcoming and joyful.
His additional duties include public relations and media efforts, strategic brand marketing, and building strong community connections throughout Vermont and beyond.
Bernier holds a bachelor of business administration degree from Saint Michael's College and is currently pursuing his masters in business administration from Champlain College in Burlington, VT. His past work experiences include alumni and development work at Saint Michael's College and serving as the Events and Team Manager for Tubbs Snowshoes. He currently serves on the board of directors for CRAG VT and is an avid outdoor enthusiast.
"We are delighted to welcome Chris to our team," said Bill Porreca, President/CEO for Special Olympics Vermont. "Over the next year our goal is to elevate the Special Olympics message throughout Vermont and Chris' contributions will help us generate unique marketing efforts and funding opportunities, which will provide the organization this exposure." For more information on Special Olympics Vermont community events, fundraising and athletes, please call Special Olympics Vermont, 802.863.5222 or visit the website at www.vtso.org.
