Vibrant Communities looks back at highlights of 2017, forward to 2018 with new survey

That’s why the community organization recently released a public survey to allow residents to voice their opinions as to the priorities of Vibrant Communities in 2018.

“I think the key thing that we’re hoping for is just to get a better understanding of what the priorities in the community are,” said Terry Mark, director of communications for the organization.

Mark said this will enable Vibrant Communities to be “in sync” with the community, and pursue projects reflective of communities’ desires.

“If there’s an area that there’s a higher priority in the community, then that will affect our thinking going forward,” Mark said.

The survey features questions regarding the various workshops that were held by Vibrant Communities in 2017, as well as ideas for future workshops.

It also includes questions about Vibrant Communities’ Little Big Idea grant, which are grants up to $1,000 that individuals in the community can use to fund their own “little ideas.”

In total, 11 projects were awarded grants in 2017, which included pumpkin races in Middlebury and several other projects that are detailed on the Vibrant Communities website.

Mark said this is his favorite thing Vibrant Communities does, as it helps bring to life ideas from everyday people.

“Just little wins like that in each community build momentum and inspire other people,” Mark said.