Event Will Feature Keynote From New VBSR Executive Director Chelsea Bardot Lewis
Vermont Business Magazine The Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the third annual Heart of The Shires event, debuting a new format and venue in 2025. The celebration of nonprofits, community leaders, and social enterprises will be held as a brunch from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at the Park McCullough Historic Carriage Barn.
This year’s keynote speaker is Chelsea Bardot Lewis, Executive Director of Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility (VBSR). A champion of business as a force for good, Lewis brings deep expertise in social enterprise, impact investing, and public policy.
Prior to leading VBSR, she served as COO of Working Fields, where she helped secure $3 million in impact capital and doubled revenue in three years; managed an integrated investment and grantmaking portfolio at the Vermont Community Foundation; and led business development at the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, supporting Vermont businesses and nonprofits statewide.
“Heart of The Shires is where our region’s do-gooders and difference-makers take center stage,” said Matt Harrington, Executive Director of the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “Moving to a brunch at Park McCullough lets us gather in a space that mirrors the heart and history of this community. Chelsea’s leadership at VBSR and her track record in mission-driven growth make her the perfect voice for a morning focused on purpose, partnership, and regional progress.”
The program will also feature the presentation of three honors:
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Heart of The Shires Award (Community Organization of the Year)
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Community Leadership Award
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Lindy Lynch Volunteer of the Year Award
Nominations are now open and close Friday, October 17, 2025. Submit nominations and learn more at SWVTChamber.com/heartoftheshires.
Attendees will enjoy a seasonal Vermont brunch and meaningful networking with nonprofit leaders, social entrepreneurs, and community partners from across the region.
As a Co-Presenting Sponsors, Coggins Auto Group underscores its long-standing commitment to community vitality by supporting the Heart of The Shires Brunch, while Fidium Business - formerly Consolidated Communications - brings its newly rebranded, fiber-first business connectivity to the forefront, investing in the reliable networks local organizations need to collaborate, innovate, and grow.
Limited tickets are available at SWVTChamber.com/heartoftheshires. Community partners interested in supporting the event can contact [email protected] for sponsorship opportunities.
About The Heart of The Shires
Launched by the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce, The Heart of The Shires celebrates the nonprofits, social sector organizations, and community leaders who strengthen Bennington County’s civic fabric. The event recognizes outstanding service, innovation, and leadership while fostering collaboration across the region.
About the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce
The Southwestern Vermont Chamber advances a thriving regional economy and high quality of life through advocacy, community partnerships, and member services. Learn more at SWVTChamber.com.
(North Bennington, VT) — The Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce SWVTChamber.com
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