The Power of Showing Up:
Celebrating Volunteers in Montpelier
It’s Volunteer Appreciation Week, and in Montpelier, that means recognizing something pretty fundamental: this community works because people show up.
Behind nearly every event, initiative, and moment of connection in our downtown, there are volunteers and local businesses giving their time, energy, and care. From helping organize large-scale events to lending a hand in small but meaningful ways, those contributions are what keep Montpelier vibrant, resilient, and connected.
And this time of year, that spirit is especially visible.
A Season of Showing Up
Spring in Montpelier isn’t just about warmer weather, it’s about getting back outside and getting involved.
In the coming weeks, we’ll see volunteers turn out for Green Up Day, helping to care for the spaces we all share. We’ll gather again for Mayfest, a weekend that brings together local businesses, farmers, and families to celebrate the season. All Species Day invites the community to come together in a creative, joyful expression of connection to the natural world. And as summer approaches, planning is already underway for the July 3rd Celebration, another event powered by community effort.
These events don’t happen on their own. They happen because people choose to participate: to lend their time, their skills, and their presence.
 |
 |
 |
Small Acts, Big Impact
Volunteerism doesn’t always look like a big commitment. Sometimes it’s a few hours helping set up, picking up, guiding, organizing, or simply being there. But those small acts add up.
We saw it this past weekend during Community Spruce Up Day, when 50 volunteers rolled up their sleeves to help get downtown ready for Spring, a shared investment in the place we all care about. That same spirit carries through everything we do.
 |
 |
 |
A Story of Community in Action
In the first episode of the Heart of Vermont Podcast, Bridge Illumination Coordinator Viviane Ladd Tomasi shares the story of Montpelier’s Bridge Illumination Project, an effort that brought creativity and community together in a visible way.
After the 2023 floods, the illuminated bridge on Langdon Street took on new meaning. It became a small but powerful symbol, something that lifted spirits during a difficult time.
It’s a reminder that small contributions can create something meaningful, and lasting.
Thank You
To everyone who volunteers, whether it’s once a year or every week, and to the businesses that support this work: thank you.
You are a big part of what makes Montpelier so special. Interested in getting involved? Email: [email protected]