I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to the Vermont Achievement Center. Founded in 1937, the Vermont Achievement Center has a notable history that represents the evolution in Vermont services to children and families. Always the pioneer, VAC has continued to be alert to current needs and gaps in necessary services.

VAC has experienced an exciting change this year with the restructure of our Board of
Directors. Through a Board approved governance plan, it was determined that a more focused approach would be taken to implement our recently adopted Strategic Plan. As a result of this decision, VAC staff is now sitting on Board committees of their choice. This mix of Board members and staff allows for a valuable exchange of program and operational information, which in turn helps create a unified focus on the future well being of the agency. I am very optimistic about the great work that is being completed by these committee members.

As VAC embraces its mission of building positive life skills today to prepare children and families for successful tomorrows, we look to each of you for your continued support and
endorsement of our work. Many, many thanks for assisting us with the opportunity to
provide a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.

I hope that you will enjoy learning more about the Vermont Achievement Center and our programs and services as you explore our web site!

          Sincerely,
          Joanne H. Mattsson
          President & CEO

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Our Vision:

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A vision is a guiding image of success- a picture of a desired future that serves to motivate and inspire.  For Vermont Achievement Center, the future is forged by a universal commitment to our community’s children and families.  By implementing the objectives of our strategic plan, we direct our collective energy toward our vision of the future.  A copy of our full Strategic Plan is available upon request.

Our Core Values:

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Vermont Achievement Center is recognized as a catalyst in building a community where:

• All people are capable of change
• Individuals flourish because they are nurtured, valued and treated with respect
• Education is empowering
• The family is the primary influence in a person’s life
• Children belong in a family
• Families are enhanced by support of the community
• Children and family services are flexible and responsive to changing needs

Our Mission:   

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Building Positive Life Skills Today to Prepare Children and Families for Successful Tomorrows

Our Goals:
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Vermont Achievement Center has re-identified five broad organizational goals that are the focus our resources and attention:

• Offer Sustainable Quality Programs Designed to Meet Community Needs
• Achieve and Maintain Financial Strength
• Ensure Quality Staff and Leadership
• Maximize Community and Legislative Impact        
• Maintain a Sustainable Facility                               

 Board of Directors 2007

Joan Gamble
Board Chair

Joanne H. Mattsson
President & CEO

           Jeff Ams

Douglas S. Andrews
Carolyn S. Baker
Jody J. Breault
Denise A. Clark
Susanne F. Engels
William T. Fellows
Laurie S. Mintzer
Brian Nolan

Robert J. Petrini
Dave Rathbun

Melissa Whitmore
Anne A. Zawistoski

Ad-Hoc Members
Lois M. Beardwood