Meet a new ACT Member!
Martha is a Shaftsbury native who loves her community and returned to serve as a PA. She is involved in a variety of activities including the NorShaft Lions, Shaftsbury Community Club, Medical Reserve Corps, and the Bennington Free Clinic. She believes in leaning into communities to make the change you wish to see, and is on her town’s Planning Commission, the town Select Board, and is an election poll worker. You may have also seen her at one of her many jobs: working at Clearbrook Farm, subbing at the middle and high Schools, or at Wing and a Prayer Farm.
Why are you an ACT member? Why do you work to support healthy youth?
I recently worked as a prevention consultant with the Vermont Department of Health where I learned about the good work ACT was doing in the schools. Every youth deserves to have nurturing adults that care about issues they face and show up to support and encourage them. Having grown up in Bennington County I know the challenges that face our youth and want to be part of the positive changes that are happening in our community.
What do you love most about living and/or working in Bennington?
I grew up and chose to return. I love knowing my neighbors, working in local businesses and being able to affect change.
Top three songs on your current playlist:
- “Small Town Saturday Night” by Hal Ketchum
- “Become You” by the Indigo Girls
- “Orphan Girl” by Crooked Still
What are you reading right now?
I just finished Becca Balint’s book called The Girl in the Yellow Pantsuit and just started This Long Thread, women of color on craft, community and connection by Jen Hewitt.
What are you doing to support your health and wellness lately?
Finding balance is what I’m focusing this year. I am involved with many organizations and learning to say no has been a steep learning curve for me, but necessary to my physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.