Please join us Saturday November 11th for the annual fall work day at BBC. Work is much more fun when friends and food are included – 2 things we specialize in! The first of 7 Winter Intern Events will also be held alongside work day on Nov 11.
Join us for an intergenerational day of work, friends, food and fun! See below for details.
Work Day Details 9:30 – 3:30
Join us at 9:30 for the morning meeting and work assignments. Lunch at 12:30
Projects for all ages including: Wood stacking Ice rink setup Ski trail maintenance Cabinet installation Misc Tasks related to winter Prep
Winter Intern Details 9:30-5 8th -11th Grade (past BBC LITs, CITs, Summit High Campers) Expect a mix of work and play Ice Rink Set Up Woodstacking Kitchen help Lunch and Afternoon Snack Provided Games and Bible Study Leadership by BBC Staff RSVP Required to camp@bethanybirches.org
Let us know if you can join us (email to camp@bethanybirches.org, include number of people roughly) and we’ll plan accordingly for lunch and work projects. If you can’t join us for work day be sure to check out the winter camp page and plan to join for winter fun!
And despite the gently falling snow at camp today, summer 2024 dates are coming soon!
On Monday November 6th Marie Caduto, our Regional Watershed Planner with the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Watershed Investment Divsion, will be present to discuss the current conditions with the mass slope failure happening on Money Brook and how this is impacting water quality in Lake Amherst and Echo Lake.
Informational resources are posted on the Town website, on the left side under Town Announcements.
OHF’s Good Neighbor Grants program has been a key part of the OHF’s work to support community members in need. This edition of our newsletter defines the grant application process, showing how it’s based on a strong partnership between the applicant, the provider and the OHF.
For nearly three decades, the Ottauquechee Health Foundation has been at the forefront of helping local residents in need get crucial health care services. A big part of that is OHF’s Good Neighbor Grants program, which has a specific process behind it. And throughout the way – from submitting the application to final approval – the OHF is there to assist the applicant with the required steps.
When the OHF receives a grant application, there are several important criteria to be met, in order for the application to proceed. OHF must confirm that:
The applicant resides in one of the nine towns the Foundation serves: Barnard, Bridgewater, Hartland, Killington, Plymouth, Pomfret, Quechee, Reading, and Woodstock. The request is not for treatment they’ve already received. The applicant fits within OHF’s income guidelines for the grants (see further details below). The request is for services that are within OHF’s guidelines for health and wellness. The categories of need include: Aging in place Dental Hearing In-home/Respite care Transportation Wellness Medical Vision Mental Health
OHF is glad to take applications for any service that someone’s insurance doesn’t cover, or where it’s tough for the individual to make the required co-pay. “We’re there to meet that gap,” said Beth Robinson, OHF’s grants coordinator. OHF can also address related needs, such as purchasing gas cards so the applicant can get to their medical appointments.
Regarding the income guidelines, OHF works within the federal poverty guidelines and provides grants to individuals under 300% poverty, in accordance with the federal guidance. Robinson explained that an individual at 100% poverty is making $14,580 per year, and, for these grants, OHF approves applicants with incomes of up to 300% poverty. Grant amounts vary based on this.
“Someone closer to, or under, that 100% poverty guideline is going to get a much larger grant than someone closer to 300%,” she said. Applicants must also provide a copy of the past year’s tax return or the equivalent to show total household size and income from the previous year.
On the provider side, the health care providers participating will often discount their services. At the same time, the applicant is expected to make an effort in that direction also. These discounts range from 5-25%.
“We always ask the applicant to contribute something,” she said. “The providers who are discounting services like to see that participation, and it makes the applicant feel like they’re pulling their weight, they’re contributing.”
When all the information is in order, then the amount comes into play. Any grant request of $750 or less, Executive Director Hali Robinson is able to sign off on that application; any request over $750 (up to a maximum of $5,000) goes to OHF’s grants committee, which is made up of several OHF Board members.
All grant application information is completely confidential, Robinson emphasized. Once an application is approved, Robinson puts together a letter of agreement and sends it to the provider, which includes the application’s contribution and the total grant. Once the provider signs off on it the applicant can make an appointment. She added, “Providers allow our applications to make payments at no interest, which I think is really wonderful.”
Over the years, Robinson said, the grants program has been a great support for all involved. The providers allow the OHF to pay them after services have been rendered. After treatment is provided the applicant pays their portion and a bill is sent to OHF for the remainder.
“The applicants appreciate being treated so kindly and fairly, and they make their payments as promised to the providers,” she said. “The providers find that people go to their appointments and follow through with what’s been given to them, and it’s a lovely partnership.”
New Board Member: Meet Alan Fine
Alan Fine, a member of the OHF Real Estate Committee since 2021, brings a passion for OHF and its goals. He is proud to be part of an organization that supports people of limited financial means who need access to health programs and equipment.
Alan has nearly 40 years of experience as a Real Estate attorney, during which he worked for several Title Insurance companies. In addition to his work as a title counsel, he maintained a small private practice, specializing in Real Estate and Wills, Trusts & Estates.
Before his career in real estate law, Alan majored in Chemistry and Biology at Cornell University and went on to work as a bench chemist for several years. He decided to change career paths and matriculated at Pace University School of Law, where he attained a JD degree. He retired in 2019, and is now a consultant to several Real Estate attorneys who he worked with during his tenure as title counsel.
Apart from his work for OHF, Alan is also Chairman of the Woodstock Pickleball Committee, which oversees the operation of pickleball at Vail Field and the Woodstock Elementary School. He is also a member of the Woodstock Rotary Club.
Originally from Bronx, NY, Alan resides in Woodstock Village with his wife, Susan.
Executive Director’s Report
Taste of Woodstock: OHF participated in Taste of Woodstock on August, 12th. We had the opportunity to chat with a lot of people to let them know what we do! (Thanks to Rick Russell for the photo!)
Membership event: Join us for apple cider and donuts! If you are a member, or if you are interested in becoming a member, of the Ottauquechee Health Foundation, come chat with us on Tuesday, October 10th from 4-6pm. We will be on the OHF lawn at 30 Pleasant Street if the weather cooperates, or in our Conference Room on the 2nd floor of the Simmons Building (unfortunately, this is not handicap accessible) if the weather does not cooperate. This is a great way to learn more about the organization, discuss any health-related concerns in our area, connect with OHF staff and Trustees, or meet other members. Bring a friend!
Town Appropriations: Every year, we receive a town appropriation from 8 of our 9 towns. For most towns, we need to collect signatures to petition to be on the ballot. We need your help! If you haven’t already, please come to our office and sign your name if you live one of the following towns: Woodstock, Hartland, Reading, Bridgewater, or Barnard.
Granting Update: In 2022, OHF provided 261 Good Neighbor and Homecare Grants. To-date in 2023, OHF has approved 236 grants!
OHF’s Role in the Flood Flood Relief Grants: OHF has approved 35 flood-related grants relating to environmental health, food insecurity, housing, and medical products and services. Wal-Mart in West Lebanon generously donated 4 dehumidifiers that we distributed to impacted households. Our Board of Trustees voted on adopting a Disaster Relief Fund so we are prepared for any future events.
Immediate Response: Shared information across social media channels from trusted town sources; offered food and water to individuals in need, a place to come rest in the AC and charge electronics, and a place for displaced individuals to shower (before Woodstock lost water!)
In the Community: We aided in resource coordination; received cleaning supplies, toilet paper, fans, etc from working with Woodstock Trustees and brought supplies to community members impacted by the flood; and acted as advocates for individuals and families impacted by the flood.
We are thankful for our partnerships: Sustainable Woodstock, The HUB, Ottauquechee Pharmacy, Woodstock Trustees, Plymouth Memory Tree, The Shire, Sleep Woodstock, and more!
A Very Special Thank You to Susan Mordecai! Susan took this photo of a heart-shaped rock that was deposited onto her driveway during the flood. She made beautiful cards and sold them. We were one of the beneficiaries to receive the proceeds. Thanks, Susan!
Some of your neighbors are still dealing with the impacts of the flood. How can you help? Please consider a donation! We are still receiving flood-related grant requests.
Thompson Senior Center Age Well Education Series
Age Well Education Series Know your Options for End of Life
These programs are brought to you in partnership with Norman Williams Public Library and Ottauquechee Health Foundation
These programs are free and open to the public. Register by calling the Thompson Senior Center at 802-457-3277 or mheavisides@thompsonseniorcenter.org
Introduction to Death Journaling: Planning, Preparing & Processing Thursday, September. 28, 5:30 pm at Norman Williams Public Library Presented by Community Doula, Francesca Lynn Arnoldy
Join us for an introduction to “Death Journaling,” the inspiration behind her new book, The Death Doula’s Guide to Living Fully and Dying Prepared. During this workshop, participants will feel gently invited to reflect back, turn inward, and plan ahead with intention and insight, focusing on introspection as well as extending care to others. Topics include but are not limited to: the practice of Death Journaling planning, preparing, & processing storying the past exploring beliefs and values tools for times of stress and suffering
Your Options, Your Autonomy End-of-Life Options including Medical Aid in Dying under Vermont’s Act 39 Friday, October 6,10:30-11:45am Virtual Program at The Thompson Presented by Audrey Winograd, JD, MSW, Program Manager, Patient Choices Vermont, Medical Social Worker and Psychotherapist
This is an opportunity to learn, ask questions, and share stories. People often discuss their experiences with the dying process of loved ones and express their desires for what they would or would not like when they consider their end-of-life choices. Topics will include: medical aid in dying who qualifies and how it works the role of hospice and palliative care Audrey will discuss how to talk with your doctor and recent legislative updates to Act 39.
Thank You “ I wanted to extend my heartfelt gratitude once again for the dehumidifier. Your kindness and support mean so much to us, and we can’t thank you enough for all your help!”
Flood Grant Recipient Change Lives With Your Donation to OHF
We are still receiving grant requests for help post-flooding. Can you join us in helping your neighbors?
The Ottauquechee Health Foundation assists hundreds of community members in overcoming the financial stress that health and wellness challenges impose on our neighbors every day and during natural disasters.
The Ottauquechee Health Foundation continues to be there for our communities, one grant, one neighbor, one friend, and one need at a time. We need your help, one donation at a time, to ensure that we are adequately funded to continue meeting the needs of the people we serve.
Your donations don’t just help; they change lives. DONATE
The Ottauquechee Health Foundation improves the health and well-being of people in need who live in the towns we serve. We do this through financial assistance, community partnerships, education opportunities, and support of wellness initiatives.
Our service towns include Barnard, Bridgewater, Hartland, Killington, Plymouth, Pomfret, Quechee, Reading, and Woodstock.
Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard
10/30/23
The weather has flipped again! Indian summer, as it used to be called, paid us a lovely visit at the end of last week. Flowers thought over for the season started to bloom again and the warm breeze lightened my heart. Of course, it was a brief reprieve and the weekend brought cold and damp weather, so I hope that everyone enjoyed those wonderful warm days.
I often hear creatures meandering up or down my driveway, alerted by my driveway alarm. The trees block my view, although droppings in my dooryard often provide a clue. The other evening, I flipped on the light and noticed a healthy looking fox that paused at the edge of my driveway to stare at me as I was staring at him/her! It felt like a connection was made before we each continued with our own agendas. What a wonderful place to live!
I see that the Hagge family is still excelling with biking. Schuyler is on the team at WUHS and mom, Sarah is coaching. It seems that all of the family shares a love for the sport. I would love to know more about our students, so please send me information to share.
I understand that the program regarding CCC camps sponsored by the Plymouth Historical Society on Sunday was very well attended. I am told that Marty Podskoch presented considerable historical information in a delightful way. I am so sorry to have missed it. Folks from neighboring towns attended and a number of out-of-town visitors, as well. Congratulations to Bob Lambert who won the trivia contest with his amazing knowledge!
There will not be a Select Board meeting on 10/30/23.
Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard
10/23/23
It was a bit disappointing to have such a dreary weekend, although some of the leaves are hanging on and still lovely. A friend and I decided to walk in the rain on Friday and it actually was fine with our rain gear. There were some breaks in the precipitation on Sunday and I think the sun even broke through a few times. I noticed that streams are running fast and full and the lakes are high, too.
I think that most folks know that staff has been moved back into the Town Building. There are a few pictures on the Town website. Work is still being done and the project has not been completed yet.
We had quite a discussion of Lady Tan’s Circle of Women during the Book Group discussion on 10/18. I think I can safely say that it was an interesting learning experience, but none of us would have liked the limitations placed upon women during that time period! Our next book is The Maid by Nita Prose that will be discussed on 11/18. That will also be the time to choose reading material for the next few months. All are welcome to join the group. Thanks to Rose Vetere, we can meet via Zoom, so weather is not a limiting factor.
Don’t forget to join the Historical Society program on Sunday, 10/29 at 2 PM at the Community Center featuring Marty Podskoch who will be sharing pictures and information on the CCC camps of our region. There is no admission, although donations are always appreciated. Come enjoy learning about this interesting time in our history, plus share refreshments and time to chat with neighbors.
Many of you know Plymouth resident Gwen Groff, pastor of Bethany Mennonite Church in Bridgewater for the past 24 years. She will be leaving that position at the end of November and the congregation is extending an invitation to the community to attend a reception for her on Sunday, 11/12 from 2 to 4 PM at Bethany Birches Camp on Lynds Hill Rd. All are welcome to attend and to enjoy light refreshments and time together.
Speaking of BBC, please note the message reprinted below:
Greetings dear friends.
The annual benefit auction has come and gone. At our blog you can read a short report about raising more than $70,000 so that anyone can experience Bethany Birches affordably. It’s not too late to give via the fund a need if you missed out on the action. Mark your calendar for September 28, 2024, for next year’s auction!
Next up: winter camp! I was looking at enrollments the other day and for time of year, they are ahead of other years. I mention this because if you are hoping to send someone to a winter camp session, sign up this week to make sure you get the date(s) of your choice.
You will hear more from Anna and the program team soon, but I am excited for some of the fall programming including:
Internship schedule
Fall workday, at camp, lunch served (Oct 28 10am – 4pm… mark your calendars)
High School and College Bible Study
Announcement of summer camp 2024 dates – love when those drop!
Plymouth Historical Society will host renowned historian and author Marty Podskoch on Sunday, October 29th 2023 at 2:00PM at the Plymouth Community Center.
The Civilian Conservation Corps began on March 31, 1933 under President Roosevelt’s “New Deal” to relieve the poverty and unemployment of the Depression. CCC camps were set up in many Vermont towns, state parks, and forests. There were approximately 34 Vermont towns that contained camps, including, locally, Ludlow, Plymouth, Shrewsbury.
Marty Podskoch is a retired teacher from New York and author of eleven books. He is currently gathering information for future books on the Vermont CCC camps and the 68 camps in Massachusetts. He is very interested in meeting individuals who may have CCC stories and photos to contribute to these books. Please join us on Sunday, October 29th to learn more about Vermont’s unique history and where remains still exist of some of these camps.
There is no admission fee, refreshments will be available. A donation jar will be available to help defray costs.
Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard
10/15/23.
Cool weather is heading our way and the wind has been making short work of the remaining leaves. Time to consider putting away the outdoor furniture and prepare for winter! Check out the town website for the select board agenda for 10/16.
I am sorry to say that the second home on Round Top road was destroyed by fire this past week, despite the wonderful efforts of our Plymouth Fire Dept and mutual aid from other depts that joined in the effort. I understand it was fully engaged before it was reported.
The book group will be discussing Lady Tan‘s Circle of Women on 10/18 at 6:30 PM via zoom. This book provides a look at Chinese culture and the role of women in the 15th century, including the ingenuity that allowed them to provide medical care to those in need.
The Plymouth Historical Society will be having an interesting presentation by Marty Podskoch on Sunday, 10/29 at 2 PM at the Plymouth Community Center. A retired teacher, and author of numerous books, he has been gleaning stories and collecting pictures about the civilian conservation corps (CCC) camps established in 1933 in an attempt to increase employment and reduce poverty. Camps were established in 34 Vermont towns. Come learn more about the trails, roads, cabins, etc that were constructed by the crews, some of which were in the Coolidge State forest in Plymouth. Join your friends and neighbors for a look back in time. Feel free to bring some goodies to share.
Tiffany and Chris I have told me that progress is being made a Camp Plymouth State. The following article in Vermont Digger provides great information.
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