Village to Village Connections, Inc. is a new non-profit with a mission to promote health, well-being, and social connections in the Danville community by implementing and managing the Danville Village to Village (V2V) Master Plan, the Danville Train Station restoration and repurposing project, integration of the Vermont Lamoille Valley Rail Trail (LVRT) project, and develop and promote plans to grow the recreation economy throughout Danville. Building on the foundation of the V2V Master Plan, and the work of the Danville Train Station committee to renovate and store the historic train station to the transportation hub it once was (the train bringing people to town years ago and the LVRT bringing them in by people-powered means now), the volunteer board of the new V2V Connections will do all the work (no paid staff) includes managing the current Lamoille Valley Rail Trail trailheads; seeking funding and resources for additional trail heads and amenities; promoting the LVRT for users and trail friendly businesses; sponsoring community events to promote social connections and physical activity; work with other committees (like the Danville Energy Committee) to promote active transportation by making Danville more walk and bike friendly and accessible for all ages and abilities i.e. making safe walk and bike connections between town resources (the school, businesses, health center, library). One of the core roles of the new non-profit will be to develop regular “programming” around Danville’s assets, including the LVRT, Joe’s Pond, the Train Station and the Village. This could include working with local groups to organize community bike rides, history rides or nature walks, and organizing pop-up events at the Train Station with music and food. We also are in the negotiation phase with local businesses to provide bike rentals, “grab and go” food and beverages, and Danville and Train Station branded “gear” at the Train Station trail head. Board of Directors President, Laural Ruggles Vice President and Secretary, Kate Whitehead Treasurer, Michelle LeClerc Director, Michael Hogue Director, Chelsea Hewitt
