Jennifer Barrett
33 | Manager for Grantmaking and Analysis, Vermont Community Foundation
Residence: Addison
Career highlights you are most proud of.
Thanks to grant funding from the National Endowment for the Arts, I was hired early in my career to work alongside a group of creatives in the buildout of a community arts and gathering space in historic uptown Butte, Montana. The experience served as an incredible learning opportunity and offered studio space to continue my arts practice postundergradate. Today, 
I support grant-making in Vermont communities. Highlights include collaborative efforts to move grant dollars quickly and thoughtfully during the COVID-19 pandemic and, more recently, following the storms and flooding of summer 2023, and supporting the work of the Economic Stimulus Equity Fund, established in 2021 to provide state funding for individuals who were previously unable to receive federal stimulus checks due to immigration status.
Community involvement.
Soon after relocating to the town of Addison in 2019, my partner and I became involved with the Town Hall committee. Our time spent working with the Town Hall rehabilitation project over the last few years has made it clear that the town of Addison is facing several important transitions in the near future, and it’s critical to be engaged to understand how the town moves forward. Most recently, I was elected to serve as a justice of the peace; appointed to the planning board; and elected secretary of the Addison Town Historical Society.
Motivation for living and working in Vermont.
I was drawn to the history of this area first; there are many great historic sites and museums to visit. Vermont’s landscape drew me in second — its rolling hills are perfect for evening rides on the back of my partner’s motorcycle. There are many similarities between Montana, where I relocated from, and Vermont, but the most striking I’ve encountered so far is a strong pride in place.
Favorite part of your job.
It is an absolute joy to hear from nonprofits around the state and learn about the great work they do, and I appreciate every opportunity to share in conversation, better understand needs and offer guidance for funding and project development. Additionally, I value the collaborative spirit of the Community Foundation, and am grateful for the kind and committed colleagues I get to work with each day.
Most inspiring mentor.
It’s difficult to choose just one. But something that stands out when I think of mentors are those who advocated for themselves and those they serve.
Something fun about yourself that few people know.
During the pandemic, I acquired a Kelsey 6 x10 Model X letterpress and started to teach myself how to set type. If you ever receive a card from me, especially around the holidays, it was almost certainly made on the letterpress or pulled from a carved wooden block.
Three words that best describe you.
Creative., conscientious and compassionate.
Favorite Vermont escape.
For a quick escape, riding the motorcycle around Addison County. For a longer weekend, visiting Windham and Windsor counties, specifically the communities of Grafton, Chester, Springfield and Bellows Falls.
Favorite Vermont season.
Early fall, when the mornings are crisp, days are sunny and colors are starting to change in the Green Mountains. Late winter walks through Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area are also enjoyable.
Causes you would support if you had unlimited access to funds.
I’m partial to supporting the work of small, local nonprofits that demonstrate just how much can be done with even the smallest gifts. Causes vary from the arts and history, to outdoor recreation and health.
Where you see yourself professionally in the next five to 10 years.
Continuing to serve Vermont communities by advancing programs that promote equitable access to services and improve neighborhood connection and well-being.
