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Many Vermont farms seek to expand agritourism operations, UVM study finds

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Many Vermont farmers plan to expand their agritourism offerings according to new survey data from the Vermont Tourism Research Center at UVM. 

Researchers surveyed more than 1,800 farmers with existing agritourism businesses between November 2019 and February 2020. The survey, which had respondents from all 50 states, included 222 Vermont farms. 

Agritourism, as a term, can encompass many things, but in this study included on-site sales and farm stands, overnight farm stays and events such as tastings and tours. It generally includes any activity that attracts visitors to a working farm. 

Nearly 60% of the Vermont farms said they plan to expand their agritourism offerings. 

Many farms, both in Vermont and the southeast region of the United States, said lack of broadband access was a barrier to expanding their online presence and reaching new consumers.

Lisa Chase, a UVM Extension researcher who led the study, said the data provides “a good snapshot of what agritourism looked like before the pandemic.” She is currently studying the pandemic’s impact on the industry. 

Eighty-six percent of Vermont respondents offered on-site, direct-to-consumer sales, making it the most common form of agritourism in the state. Chase said these businesses boomed during the pandemic’s peak. 

In Brattleboro, Ashlyn Bristle and her husband own Rebop Farm, which she describes as a diversified livestock farm anchored around their on-site raw milk sales. Bristle said at the onset of the pandemic, their sales grew sevenfold in about four weeks. 

“We just got down to the point where in our personal household, we weren’t even eating any meat for about six months, because we were so afraid we weren’t going to have enough to fulfill our CSA,” Bristle said. 

Last year their farm store stocked goods from about 10 other local suppliers, as well as their own. Now they sell products from nearly 75 local food producers. 

Bristle attributes their success to their short supply chain, which remained stable while some grocery stores experienced meat shortages last spring. 

And in Charlotte, entrepreneur Will Raap announced in June that he planned to transform Nordic Farms in Charlotte into an agritourism hub featuring walking and skiing trails, an agricultural museum, and places to eat and drink.

But Chase said Vermont farms that depended on other kinds of agritourism revenue really struggled during the past year. 

“If you run an overnight farm stay, and you don’t have products that you’re selling directly to your community, the pandemic was a very tough time,” Chase said. 

Twenty percent of the Vermont farms, and 26% of total respondents, reported their agritourism operations turned no profit, even before the pandemic. 

Chase said this is “concerning,” but many farms have multiple parts to their business and may operate tourism programs as an educational nonprofit. Some also consider it part of their marketing budget, as a way to build name recognition and community goodwill. 

Chase also noted that while the term “agritourism” is fairly new, the practice isn’t. 

“Harvest festivals, planting festivals and gathering around maple syrup time, those sorts of gatherings around farms probably go back as long as farming existed,” she said. “What’s different is the way the public understands agriculture.” 

Chase said just a few generations ago, most people either had experience working on a farm, or knew someone who farmed. But now that less than 2% of U.S. jobs are in agriculture, food production has gained a new novelty, which can be commercialized.  

Market pressures also forced many smaller farms to diversify their business and insulate it from global commodity prices, Chase said. Agritourism returns them some control to set their own prices.

Beth Kennett and her husband Bob bought Liberty Hill Farm in Rochester in 1979, and “by 1984, we needed to diversify our income in order to survive,” she said. They started by lodging skiers visiting nearby slopes, and have operated an inn there ever since. 

“The agritourism component of our farm is absolutely critical to the survival of our dairy farm,” Kennett said.

Liberty Hill Farm is part of the Cabot cooperative. Kennett says Cabot has also begun promoting its farmers’ agritourism operations because “Cabot has recognized that dairy farmers need to diversify their income and cannot rely on the commodity pricing of milk.”

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Vermont Tourism Research Center

• Tourism in Vermont

Agritourism

• Agritourism Gatherings

Agritourism Research

• Agritourism Survey Results
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Related Resources

Agritourism is the business of establishing farms as destinations for education, recreation, and the purchase of farm products. Agritourism gives visitors the opportunity to connect with the working landscape and the "farm experience" and creates an additional source of revenue for the host farm.

The VTRC provides tools, resources, and research findings for farmers and agricultural service providers. We have agritourism "how-to" guides and research findings as well as links to state-wide and region-wide agritourism associations.

Please  contact us if you would like to add resources or have questions .

Agritourism Tools and Resources

Find tools and resources for farmers interested in agritourism and service providers who support them.

Learn about the latest research on agritourism from Vermont.

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The Vermont visitor economy has a $3 billion annual economic impact and employs 11.5% of the Vermont workforce. You’re invited to join tourism and hospitality industry leaders at the State House to engage with legislators and raise awareness of the collective contributions of these industries to the Vermont economy.

Thursday, April 11, 2024

Vermont State House, 115 State St, Montpelier, VT 05633

8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

8:00 – 9:00 Coffee with Governor Scott

• Location: Governor’s Ceremonial Office, Vermont State House (2nd floor)

9:00 – 11:00 Joint Hearing on the Visitor Economy

• Location: Pavilion Building Auditorium – Room 267 (109 State St.) 
• Amy Spear, Vice President of Tourism, Vermont Chamber of Commerce
• Heather Pelham, Commissioner, Department of Tourism and Marketing
• Andy Stenger, Director of Facilities and Resort Services, Jay Peak Resort
• Jon Milne, Owner, Neshobe Golf Club
• Susanna Gellert, Executive Director, Weston Theater Company – Invited
• Tino Rutanhira, Co-Executive Director, Vermont Professionals of Color – Invited
• Matt Wilson, Co-Founder, Zero Gravity – Invited
• Stefano Coppola, Owner, Pearl St. Pizza/Morse Block Deli
• Cara Tobin, Chef/Owner, Honey Road and Grey Jay
• Hans van Wees, General Manager, Hotel Vermont
• Molly Mahar, President, Ski Vermont
• [NOTE: It is about a 3-5 minute walk from the State House to the Pavilion. We recommend arriving early to allow time for parking or the walk from the State House.]

11:00 – 1:00 Lunch with Legislators

• Location: Cafeteria, Vermont State House (2nd floor)
• See resources below on how to schedule time with your legislator. 

12:40 – 1:00 Press Conference 

• Location: Cedar Creek Room, Vermont State House

1:00 – House Resolution Reading 

• Location: House Chamber, Vermont State House
• Please sit in the second-floor balcony

4:00 – 6:00 Specialty Food & Beverage Legislative Tasting

• Location: State House Cafeteria
• The Vermont Specialty Food Association tasting is one of the most highly anticipated event for legislators each year and a chance for producers to highlight the importance of grants and funding for their industry. Learn more . 

Additional details coming soon.

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ADVOCACY PLATFORM

In 2024, we are committed to advocating for a stronger Vermont visitor economy through strategic initiatives to bolster business success and contribute to the vitality and resiliency of our state. By focusing on key pillars of opportunity, we can work together to help foster a thriving visitor economy in Vermont.

A robust visitor economy requires a skilled workforce. We will focus on initiatives that meet the demand for workforce recruitment and retention through training and educational opportunities.

To ensure a resilient visitor economy, we will advocate for recovery programs to address unmet economic injury needs caused by natural disasters. We will also support proactive mitigation strategies to reduce downtown and revenue loss in the aftermath of future disasters.

To meet the need for 80,000 new units of housing by 2035, it will require a coordinated approach that addresses all facets of the issue while supporting efforts that are already underway. We will advocate for Act 250 modernization, updated land use regulations, and investment in middle-income housing solutions.

Have a question about participating in Tourism Economy Day at the State House? Before you arrive, check out the answers to this list of frequently asked questions:

Events are taking place throughout the day and you are welcome to attend any, or all, of them. We especially encourage you to attend the hearing and the reception with legislators to ensure the full force of the industry is represented.

Tourism Economy Day at the State House is packed with options for partners to participate.

• Attend the Joint Hearing – Support industry leaders who will be testifying before the House Commerce and Community Development Committee and Senate Economic Development, Housing & General Affairs Committee.
• Attend House and/or Senate Floor Sessions – Gallery seating is available in the chamber of the House of Representatives and Senate. 
• Visit Your Legislators – Partners are encouraged to connect and schedule meetings with your local legislators throughout the day. Please see “How do I schedule time with my legislators?” below for more information.

There is on-street metered parking within the Capitol District. Paid parking is also available throughout downtown Montpelier, just a few blocks away.

Parking spaces near the State House tend to fill up early in the day. Free parking is offered in a nearby lot at the Vermont Department of Labor ( 5 Green Mountain Drive ). Service between Department of Labor Park and Ride and the Capitol District is available via  MyRide by GMT  (GMT strongly recommends pre booking your ride via the MyRide by GMT app (The  MyRide by GMT  app is available for download at the  Apple Store  and  Google Play Store ) or by calling 802-540-2468). For more information visit  Green Mountain Transit .

• Find the legislative districts you are located in  here , if needed.
• Contact your legislators’ offices by email or phone to let them know that you will be attending Tourism Economy Day on April 11, 2024 and would like to meet with them during lunch or the reception.
• Having trouble finding their contact information? Contact the Sergeant at Arms’ office at 802-828-2228 or [email protected].

If you have any questions about the event, please email Amy Spear, Vice President of Tourism, at [email protected] . 

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(802) 223-3443 [email protected]

• 7 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in Vermont

Located in the northeast corner of the US, Vermont offers a scenic destination for respite and recreation. In these seven towns, you can enjoy alpine adventures in Stowe, visit Burlington's top-rated public square, savor award-winning cheese in Grafton, explore the secret rooms in Chester’s historical buildings, and so much more. Renowned for its stunning mountains, sparkling lakes, and four distinct seasons, these seven towns are some of the most breathtaking in all of Vermont.

Stowe , Vermont, is a wonderland of natural beauty with old bridges, majestic mountains, and lush forests. Anchored by the Stowe Mountain Resort, it serves as a premier destination, combining vibrant village life with expansive outdoor pursuits. This destination thrives all year, famed primarily for its exceptional skiing opportunities on Vermont's highest peak, Mount Mansfield, and its neighbor, Spruce Peak. At an altitude of 4,393 feet, Mount Mansfield provides ample skiing opportunities, challenging hiking trails, and breathtaking views. Halfway up Mount Mansfield, Spruce Peak Village offers ice skating, skiing, and rock climbing and transforms in the warmer months into a hub for hiking, zip-lining, and golf.

Beyond the adrenaline-filled activities on the slopes, the town's natural landscapes are on display along the 5.3-mile Stowe Recreation Path. A stroll or bike ride reveals charming stone bridges, serene picnic spots, and refreshing swimming holes. Stowe's village showcases New England architecture featuring historic inns, white-steepled churches, and boutique shops that echo the town’s rich history and culture. Gentle Giants offers horse carriage rides to explore the quaint village, admire the traditional architecture, and soak in the panoramic mountain views. Within the village, indulge in luxury treats at Laughing Moon Chocolates, sample a local brew at Stowe Cider, or check out the Vermont Ski and Snowboarding Museum to learn about the alpine culture that makes Stowe unique. Whether it’s winter alpine sports, the mesmerizing display of colorful autumn foliage, or the cultural richness of the town, Stowe is a must-visit destination any day of the year.

Manchester , located in southwestern Vermont, is a breathtaking year-round destination with its charming downtown and abundant activities. The town, easily accessible from Boston and New York City , is home to picturesque streets, white churches, art galleries, local breweries, and a variety of shops. As a ski town in the winter and a hub for hiking and arts in the other seasons, Manchester offers something for everyone. Among the many attractions are Bromley Mountain with its summer alpine slide and the Southern Vermont Arts Center, an all-in-one stop with outdoor sculptures, photography, paintings, an on-site Garden Cafe, and walking trails featuring wildflowers, trees, and ferns.

Venturing into Manchester's outskirts, you'll find the Mountain View Ranch offering horseback riding through rolling farmlands with beautiful mountain views, as well as sleigh rides in winter. Step back into the 18th century at Hildene House, the former residence of Abraham Lincoln's son Robert; not just a historic destination, it features an old carriage barn, a working farm, beautiful gardens, and 12 miles of trails across its 400-acre property. Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the trails at Equinox Preservation and Lye Brook Falls, which are part of the Appalachian Trail. Mount Equinox is a treasure trove of activities with a scenic golf course, a nursery offering seasonal activities like pumpkin picking, and the Equinox Preservation with its ponds, slopes, and breathtaking views. Finally, for a sweet treat, visit the Maple Reserve to Vermont’s acclaimed maple products, and end your day at the Manchester View, where you can enjoy the incredible Vermont landscapes from the comfort of your balcony.

Burlington , the most populous city in Vermont with nearly 45,000 residents, boasts a lively atmosphere brimming with attractions, all while maintaining its small-town feel. Perched along Lake Champlain and encircled by the Green Mountains, the town is a unique destination with its urban setting and natural beauty. In the heart of Burlington lies Church Street Marketplace, a bustling pedestrian-only street that serves as a hub for community events and local commerce. Historic buildings line the cobblestone streets, hosting an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and street performers. The city’s spirit comes alive in this vibrant district, living up to its title as America’s top public square. You can get a real taste of Vermont with Burlington’s farm-to-table culinary scene, numerous local craft breweries, and one of the state's largest year-round farmers markets.

Equally captivating is Waterfront Park, a green oasis along Lake Champlain. It features scenic biking and hiking trails, ample green space, water activities, and a beautiful waterfront offering a front-row seat to stunning sunsets. Not only is it a spot for recreation and relaxation, but Waterfront Park also transforms into a stage for social gatherings, hosting festivals and events throughout the year. From jazz to food to craft beer, Burlington's festivals offer many opportunities to connect with the local community. With its thriving community spirit, captivating lakes and mountains, and vibrant downtown, Burlington is a quintessential stop for anyone who finds themselves in Vermont.

Waitsfield, Vermont, tucked away in the heart of the Mad River Valley, is a year-round destination that effortlessly blends old-world charm with modern adventure. This quiet little town offers an array of local breweries, art galleries, bed and breakfasts, boutique shops, and restaurants serving fresh farm-to-table eats. The town extends through 15,000 acres of wooded hills and valleys, including the Mad River Glen Ski Area and Camel's Hump Town Forest. It features a picturesque landscape, where one can explore vast rolling hills spotted with hillside farms, rustic barns, and two iconic covered bridges. On Bridge Street, artisanal shops such as Waitsfield Pottery and the Mad River Glass Gallery offer handmade goods, perfect for grabbing some memorable souvenirs. American Flatbread, a local favorite restaurant, serves wood-fired pizza using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. At the end of Bridge Street, you'll encounter Big Eddy, one of the town’s iconic covered bridges, where you can admire the 19th-century structure while overlooking the flowing Mad River.

Waitsfield is also home to the Vermont Festival of the Arts and a vibrant Saturday farmers market, offering fresh produce, local crafts, and music. The town's transformation into a premier ski destination is evident in the legendary slopes of Mad River Glen, and Sugarbush Resort, which invite skiing enthusiasts to carve their way down the slopes blanketed in pristine snow each winter. The Mad River Path, a network of trails connecting Waitsfield and Warren, offers a scenic escape for hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts, while the Mad River itself beckons anglers, kayakers, and tubing enthusiasts. Visitors to Waitsfield can savor the simple pleasures of life amidst nature's beauty, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Vermont experience.

Brattleboro

Brattleboro , Vermont, beautifully combines natural beauty and rich history, nestled where the Connecticut River slices through the Black and Round Mountains' landscape. Its unique architecture, including historic state parks and 19th-century covered bridges, accentuates the stunning outdoors. The town offers a variety of activities, from hiking and biking to cross-country and downhill skiing to snowshoeing and sleigh rides.

The Retreat Farm, a standout feature of the town, spans 500 acres of forest and farmland laced with waterways and trails. This site offers an educational experience on land stewardship, farming, and food, with nine historic barns and animals grazing among the fields. Visitors can stop to sample local beer, meat, and cheese.

The vibrant downtown of Brattleboro is a testament to its strong community spirit, evident in the numerous local shops selling clothing, books, antiques, and gifts, as well as cheese shops, breweries, and restaurants sourcing locally. The historic Art Deco-style Latchis Hotel, centrally located downtown, provides an ideal base for exploration. The town's commitment to the arts is reflected in the Brattleboro Museum's contemporary art exhibitions and a beautiful stone church transformed into a live music venue. The Fort Dummer State Park, a historical site from the Revolutionary War , and the 53-acre Living Memorial Park, offering a range of sports and recreational activities, add to the town's charm. Brattleboro, with its mix of history, arts, and natural beauty, is one of Vermont's most stunning destinations. However, it is the town's steadfast dedication to nurturing its community, environment, and arts that truly encapsulates its beauty.

Chester , Vermont, is a quintessential New England town tucked away in the Green Mountains of Vermont. Not to be confused with the more well-known Manchester, this quiet country village offers a respite from the noise of daily life. Take in the crisp, fresh air and marvel at the autumn foliage as you explore the historic downtown or roam through the mountains. Chester is a unique blend of past and present, where nature intertwines with craftsmanship.

Visitors can explore the Chester Village Historic District, with its cozy inns, mom-and-pop shops, and the beautiful Gothic revival-style Baptist Church dating back to 1835. Indulge in locally made cheeses and Wilcox Ice Cream at the Stonevillage Farmer's Market or raise a glass of Vermont craft beer at the Long Trail Brewery. From handcrafted treasures to one-of-a-kind finds, Chester offers numerous opportunities to celebrate local creativity and craftsmanship. Art lovers can peruse galleries like The Crow Hill Gallery, while history buffs can embark on a walking tour of the town's historic churches and libraries, spotting houses of prominent historical figures. Nearby, the Stone Village Historic District reveals a different side of the past, with ten unique stone houses built by 19th-century Scottish masons. These unassuming structures, crafted from local granite and gneiss, hold secret rooms said to have been used in the Underground Railroad.

Outdoor enthusiasts will delight in the opportunity to escape the crowds and embrace the tranquility of Vermont's countryside. Hike to a cascading waterfall on Mount Ascutney or lose yourself in the 550 acres of the Chester Town Forest, following the Lost Mine Trail past mossy streams and through vibrant hardwood groves. At Lowell State Park, the serene Lake Lowell provides ample opportunities for boating, fishing, or simply enjoying the relaxing views while breathing in the crisp mountain air.

In the heart of Southern Vermont, Grafton stands as a picture-perfect small town with a rich history and breathtaking natural beauty. Once a hub for wool and cheese, the town has gracefully adapted to the times while still honoring its roots. Stroll along the river, cross the iconic covered bridge, and take in the serene beauty of Grafton's countryside, where grazing sheep dot the fields and the crisp air is filled with sounds of nature. A walk through the town reveals historic buildings with preserved 19th-century architecture, steepled churches, and a tranquil community garden. Indulge in a farm-to-table meal at the Old Tavern, a part of the historic Grafton Inn, which has been welcoming guests since 1801. As one of the oldest in America, the inn itself is a testament to the town's history, offering a glimpse into the past with its elegant accommodations. Just steps away, the Phelps Barn offers a cozy retreat to unwind with a glass of wine, enjoy live music, and bask in the warmth of a crackling fireplace.

Immerse yourself in the local community at the general store, MKT, a true one-stop shop and a vibrant hub for both daily provisions and social gatherings. Get a taste of the town's agricultural legacy at the Grafton Village Cheese Company. Once a cornerstone of the local economy, they offer tours, tastings, and a shop that brings in visitors with the promise of award-winning cheeses.

Grafton Trails and Outdoor Center provides year-round outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking in the summer to cross-country skiing and sleigh rides in the winter, with a snug cabin to unthaw by the fire with a hot chocolate in hand. With a modest population that barely touches six hundred, Grafton is a place where everyone might know your name, and the sense of community is as palpable as the fresh Vermont air.

In Vermont, beauty lies not only in its landmarks but also in its seasons. The hot summer sun brings opportunities for canoeing, swimming, and lakeside picnics. Autumn transforms the landscapes into breathtaking displays of color, offering a perfect backdrop to explore local towns and villages. Winter sees the lakes freeze and the mountains blanketed by snow, creating an oasis for skiing, skating, or horse-drawn carriage rides. Spring breathes new life into the region, with blossoming nature for hikers and bikers and the perfect climate to appreciate the rich history and cultural heritage of these seven breathtaking towns.

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Vermont Tourism Summit celebrates industry excellence and innovation at 39th annual event

VermontBiz Outstanding achievements and innovations within Vermont’s tourism and hospitality sectors were honored at the 39th annual Vermont Tourism Summit. Several industry leaders received awards recognizing their outstanding contributions to culinary arts, sustainable practices, community engagement, and the future of tourism in Vermont.

Emerging Tourism and Hospitality Leaders: This recognition celebrates the innovative minds that represent the future of Vermont’s tourism and hospitality industries. These individuals bring fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and a forward-thinking approach to challenges and opportunities. The 2024 honorees:

• Tom Carton, Strategy and Operations Manager, Hello Burlington
• Lisa Davis Mitchell, Executive Director, Town Hall Theater Middlebury
• Nick Edwards, Social Media Manager, Hello Burlington
• Mollie Faccio, Marketing Brand Manager, Woodstock Inn & Resort

Vermont Hospitality Excellence Award: This award honors a Vermonter who exemplifies exceptional service and excellence in the culinary arts and hospitality; Jeffrey Raymond Virge, Chef, Baker, and Manager at Wayside Restaurant, Bakery, and Creamery. Jeff has been a cornerstone of the Wayside since 1975, providing warm welcomes, cultivating local relationships, and offering farm-fresh dishes. His culinary talents have been nationally recognized on the Discovery Channel’s “Road Trip Show” and in the New York Times, and locally by Seven Days. Under his leadership, the Wayside's maple cream pie was named "Vermont's Iconic Pie" by the Food Network. Jeff’s dedication, hard work, and inspiration have made him a culinary gift to Vermont.

Photo: Jeffrey Virge. Photo by Bobbi LoCicero.

Vermont Tourism Leadership Award: Honoring the outstanding achievements of leaders who have significantly contributed to the promotion and enhancement of tourism in Vermont, this year’s recipient is Joe Carton, COO of Westport Hospitality. Joe’s career spans over 40 years, starting in ski industry group sales and leading to the management of multiple high-profile properties, including the state’s first LEED-certified hotel. Joe has been instrumental in establishing numerous initiatives and mentoring countless hospitality professionals. His retirement marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to benefit Vermont.

Photo: Joe Carton. Photo by Bobbi LoCicero.

Award recipients were selected by a panel of judges representing the tourism and hospitality industry. Honorees for the 2025 awards will be recognized at the 40th Annual Vermont Tourism Summit which is scheduled for April 28-30, 2025 at Hotel Champlain in Burlington, Vermont. Learn more about the nomination process and award criteria at vttourismsummit.org/awards.html .

About the Vermont Tourism Summit

The annual Vermont Tourism Summit draws one of the largest gatherings of tourism professionals in the state including owners, managers, and employees of the many businesses connected to this important segment of the economy. It is the only opportunity for all Vermont tourism-industry businesses to come together. We're not just inviting lodging properties, attractions, or businesses based in one region of the state. We encourage them all to come together to explore partnership opportunities, to learn from one another, and to grow together.

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‘Man Therapy’ aims to aid men’s mental health in Vermont

BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - Data from the Department of Health shows men in Vermont are less likely to seek mental health support, and that eight in 10 deaths by suicide are by men. In an effort to address that, “Man Therapy” is being brought to Vermont in hopes of connecting men with the help they’re looking for.

Man Therapy is an online platform from Colorado that gives users a wellness inspection and connects them with resources and therapists. The program has been piloted in Vermont within the past year in Rutland and Caledonia Counties. Over 2,000 Vermonters have reached the website so far, almost 400 took a self-assessment, and 18 people were connected to resources directly.

Stephanie Busch with the Department of Health says in 2020 and 2021, 45% of the people who died by suicide were in a known crisis two weeks before their death. “How can we help to connect to that person, in that moment or the next week, to whatever that immediate care is. So, then thinking about what some of those additional barriers might be. So you know, stigma in general, getting any kind of access to help - especially if society has traditionally taught you to not ask, to you know, internalize emotions,” said Busch.

Reid Wobby is a drug and alcohol consultant who works closely with Vermont contractors, which is a predominantly male industry. “The stereotypical kind of picture-perfect person, a construction worker or that type of person historically, has not been someone who has said, ‘I need help, I’m not doing well,’ and that goes back to the stigma,” said Wobby.

He says it’s not uncommon for men to seek help but then feel ashamed, wondering if their struggle is “bad enough” or feeling that therapy is something to hide. “The worst thing that’s ever happened to me is always going to be the worst thing that’s ever happened to me. My 10 isn’t necessarily your 10. But those worst things,.. And when we’re dealing with a lot of those stressors, having somebody to talk to, to vent to, having a resource,” said Wobby.

Terri Lavely with Northeast Kingdom Human Services says a 2022 community-wide survey showed that stigma was the number one barrier to mental health services. “Our challenges are quite different in the Kingdom than they are in the Rutland, Burlington, more populated areas,” said Lavely.

She says they’re an advocate of Man Therapy and its accessibility, hoping awareness creates enough curiosity for those seeking help to get it. “You’re sitting in your truck on your lunch break and eating a sandwich, you can play a couple of videos and it might help you feel better, and really normalizing the conversation that every human being has mental health,” she said.

The Department of Health says Man Therapy is funded by grants, and it’ll be getting a statewide push in June, coinciding with Men’s Mental Health Month.

If you or a loved one are struggling to maintain positive mental health, you can call 988 or check out the health department’s online resources.

Copyright 2024 WCAX. All rights reserved.

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