The 2024 Heart of The Shires Luncheon was hosted by Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home in their newly built Lincoln Hall
Vermont Business Magazine The Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce hosted its second annual "Heart of The Shires Luncheon" at the beautiful Lincoln Hall at Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, on November 6th, honoring remarkable individuals and organizations that have made significant impacts across the region. The event, featuring keynote speaker Matt Dunne of the Center on Rural Innovation, gathered over 90 attendees, including local leaders, nonprofits, and social sector representatives, to celebrate community service and leadership in Vermont.
Keynote Speaker – Matt Dunne
Dunne, a lifelong advocate for rural economic development and a visionary leader, shared inspiring insights on fostering tech-driven innovation in rural areas. His address highlighted the potential for rural communities to harness digital ecosystems to build sustainable, inclusive economies. Dunne's deep connection to Vermont and his work with the Center Of Rural Innovation (CORI) resonated with the audience, affirming a shared commitment to a prosperous future for the region.
Award Recipients – Honoring Community Impact
The event celebrated the dedication and passion of this year’s award recipients, whose contributions have left a lasting positive impact on Southwestern Vermont.
- Heart of The Shires Award: Presented to Jacklyn Matts
This award celebrates individuals who exemplify community service and leadership. Jacklyn Matts, a vital community advocate, received the Heart of The Shires award for her extensive work with Queer Connect, fostering inclusive spaces, and her leadership on the Bennington Charter Review Committee. “Jacklyn brings an unwavering commitment to equality and community service,” noted Matt Harrington, Executive Director of the Southwestern Vermont Chamber. “Her presence and contributions, both in formal roles and everyday acts of kindness, have enriched the fabric of our community.” - Community Leadership Award: Presented to VNA & Hospice of the Southwest Region
This award recognizes an organization’s dedication to driving change and supporting community well-being. VNA & Hospice of the Southwest Region was honored for their exceptional service, particularly in their compassionate home care that brings dignity and support to individuals at challenging times. From sponsoring events like Garlic Town, USA, to their Golf Day Fore fundraiser, their commitment goes beyond healthcare—enriching lives across Bennington and Rutland counties. “VNA & Hospice doesn’t just provide care; they embody community compassion and presence,” added Harrington.
- Lindy Lynch Volunteer of the Year Award: Presented to Analee Patel
In honor of the late Lindy Lynch, this award celebrates outstanding volunteer spirit. Analee Patel, who has become a cherished community member through her dedication to local events and festivals, exemplifies this spirit. Originally from India, she embraced Bennington as her own, contributing tireless energy, including as the “Garlic Town Architect Captain.” Harrington praised her saying, “Personally, the measure of this award to me is always - If Lindy Lynch were sitting here with us today, with her determining eye, red event staff jacket on and a clip board in hand, who would she say passes the test? I have no doubt that she would say Analee Patel has passed the Lindy test."
Harvest Lunch & Sponsors
Guests enjoyed a harvest-inspired meal crafted by Pangaea, celebrating local flavors. Special thanks go to presenting sponsors, Coggins Auto Group and Consolidated Communications, as well as supporting sponsors, whose generosity brought this celebration to life, including the Shires Young Professionals, Green Mountain Academy for Lifelong Learning, United Counseling Services, Mission Care of Bennington, Nancy Koziol, Gamers Grotto, GVH Studio, Maple Leaf Realty, Four Chimneys, Bennington Potters, Silver Therapeutics, VNA & Hospice of the Southwest Region, Dartmouth Health Southwestern Vermont Medical Center. The organizers would also like to extend a special thank you to Bennington Banner and Manchester Journal for their media coverage, GNAT-TV for filming the event, as well as Abuela’s Plant Boutique & Floral Design Studio for adding beauty to the gathering, and the venue host Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home.
The Heart of The Shires Luncheon underscored the Chamber’s vision to promote, collaborate and empower community leaders and organizations that embody the spirit of Southwestern Vermont. Harrington concluded, “These award recipients show us the strength of commitment and the power of community. Their efforts, alongside our sponsors and supporters, are what make Southwestern Vermont a vibrant and resilient place to call home.”
For more information on the Heart of The Shires Luncheon and how to support future events, visit SWVTChamber.com/heartoftheshires.
Pictures courtesy of the Southwestern Vermont Chamber & Maxwell Ward Photography:
Award winners Jaclyn Matts receives the Heart of The Shires award (left), Analee Patel receives the Lindy Lynch Volunteer of the Year award (middle), and Sara King of VNA & Hospice of the Southwest Region receives the Community Leadership award
Matt Dunne presented on the rural innovation economy
Over 90 guests joined the Chamber, Coggins Auto Group and Consolidated Communications for the second annual Heart of The Shires Luncheon
(Manchester, VT) – The Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce SWVTChamber.com
To support vital journalism, access our archives and get unique features like our award-winning profiles, Book of Lists & Business-to-Business Directory, subscribe HERE!
