West River Valley Thrives is pleased to welcome Katelynn Venne to its staff. Venne is taking over for Julia Hampton as the organization’s Program Manager. Venne has a master’s degree in Public Health and recently moved to Vermont from Western Massachusetts.
“Before my arrival in Vermont, I was leading a Lyme disease prevention campaign in Franklin County, Mass and teaching a freshman health class at UMass Amherst. My students were really the ones that inspired me to become involved in youth health issues, as they were so keen to discuss topics such as youth substance abuse, violence and youth empowerment. I came to learn that there are many risk and protective factors that influence young people’s decision-making; it is through conversations like these that such factors are identified and targeted. It is evident that Thrives coalition members are passionate about health promotion and are catalysts for change in this community; I am thrilled to be working with such a group.”
Our next Coalition meeting will be held on Thursday August 20st at 3pm (location to be determined). With fall just around the corner, we have some great events coming up, including a new parenting class. Throughout the summer and fall, Thrives will also be tabling at the Townshend Farmer’s Market. Volunteers for both of these events would be greatly appreciated; feel free to contact Kate by phone or email find her at the next Coalition meeting.