Dare Chammings, director of ACT Bennington, received a 2024 Prevention Champion Award by Prevention Works! VT in recognition of her contribution to the field of substance misuse prevention. Award recipients were announced at Prevention Day on April 3.
Dare was recognized by her peers as passionately leading substance misuse prevention efforts in Bennington with a focus on strengthening equity and creating opportunities for youth to thrive. Colleagues highlighted that Dare’s leadership centers a strengths-based philosophy and approach, fostering resilience and promoting healthy behaviors. “She tirelessly rolls up her sleeves and makes sure systems are in place to make people’s lives better, and help them feel appreciated and acknowledged,” wrote her nominator.
Dare’s emphasis on community collaboration and partnership serves as a cornerstone of her approach to substance misuse prevention. “Prevention work is a truly collaborative effort,” said Dare Chammings. “My success is made possible due to the dedicated staff, coalition members, and community partners who work together to improve health outcomes for youth and families. I’m humbled by this honor and extend my sincere thanks to those who nominated me.”
A volunteer with ACT since 2015, Dare became Director in 2018. She has contributed to various local and statewide initiatives including Bennington Hunger Council, SVSU Health & Wellness Team and Equity Advisory Committee, and Prevention Works! VT Steering Committee, among others. Beyond her work with ACT, Dare volunteers at the Kitchen Cupboard at GBCS and is a foster with Francis of Assisi Society for Animals.