2025 Online Annual Report 2025 Online Annual Report Shining a Light. Illuminating the impact of the work we do and the people we serve. This year reminded us that even in challenging times, hope shines through. At UCS, we remain committed to being a beacon of light for all those we serve. I am grateful to our dedicated staff and supportive partners who make our work possible. Every life we touch reflects the strength and compassion of Bennington County. —Lorna Mattern, Executive Director As Board President, I have the privilege of seeing the impact of UCS from a different vantage point. What stands out most is how deeply this organization is woven into the fabric of our community. In moments of uncertainty, UCS has continued to shine a light—offering hope, stability,and care where it is needed most —Bob Thompson, President of the Board of Directors Quick Links Our Stories Leadership & Financials Annual Fund & Fundraising Events United Children’s Services Our Stories Back to top UNIVERSAL ACCESS: The first stop in creating a care plan The first stop in any UCS encounter is our friendly reception desk. When individuals and families seek help at UCS, their first point of contact is our Universal Access (UA) Team. This small team, led by Jaci Brillon, carefully gathers their intake information and makes sure they are ready to move forward. Intake completed, the new clients participate in a screening and support process with our Finding Access Services and Treatment (FAST) team, which may include a case manager and Same Day Access clinician. The FAST team utilizes Collaborative Network Approach (CNA), a best practice model, to create an environment of psychological and emotional safety and determine the best approach to support each client’s specific needs. Help is available the same day, and the goal is to get people what they need, when they need it. If a client needs help in addition to or outside of our scope of services, our UA team will refer them to such external resources as: Department of Labor Emergency Shelter Services Financial Supports (3Squares, Vermont Reach Up) Food Pantries/Meal sites Legal Aid/Victims Advocate LGBTQ+ Resources Senior Supports Veteran’s Resources Vocational Rehabilitation Women, Infants and Children (WIC) and more… GATLING HOUSE TURNS 20: Creating a supportive community for residents and staff Lisa Rudiakov, longtime resident of Gatling House and party planner extraordinaire, enjoying the deck garden at the spacious group home for Developmental Services clients. UCS Developmental Service Division‘s group-home residents get the support they need in their daily activities and in reaching their life goals, whatever those may be. UCS staff are always looking for community opportunities and events that the residents enjoy doing and want to explore. People living in UCS group homes become a family–they eat together, share happy moments together, comfort each other in sad times, and support each other in achieving their goals. UCS’ Gatling House group home celebrated its 20th anniversary this year. Lisa Rudiakov, a longtime resident who also helped plan the celebration, expressed what her home means to her: “It’s been an honor to live here for these 20 years. I hope that we have 20 more years in this house. I have seen the growth in everyone, something wonderful and beautiful. Thank you, Gatling House staff, for making it such a wonderful place.” WORKSITE WELLNESS: strength in numbers Meg Bantle of Full Well Farm and UCS’ Worksite Wellness Committee member Sydney Lester Wilson showing off the week’s greens during a weekly CSA delivery. This year, UCS received the Vermont Governor’s Excellence in Worksite Wellness Gold Level Award. Since their inception 20 years ago, the Excellence Awards have been presented each year to organizations across the state that make employee wellness a priority. “We are extremely grateful to be recognized as a 2023 Vermont Governor’s Excellence in Worksite Wellness Award winner,” said Executive Director Lorna Mattern. “The health and wellbeing of our staff and families is a high priority, and we continue to think of new ways to engage them in opportunities to make time for wellness.” UCS has an organization-wide commitment to creating a supportive and healthy work Wellness Walks help out staff get out and moving in the fresh air. environment. One of our popular initiatives is a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, providing staff with weekly deliveries of fresh, locally sourced produce, which encourages healthy eating while. supporting local agriculture, enhancing employee wellbeing, and making community connections. In addition to our CSA, this past year’s notable wellness initiatives included: On-site chair massages Wellness Fair with biometric screenings Soup Off Sip & Swirl Let’s Move Together Challenge Boundaries Challenge Streaking Challenge Sleep For Your Life Challenge Year of Wellness gift cards Tai Chi with Ryan Lane Staff Picnic Activities Employee Assistance Program with Invest EAP Meetings on the Move Health food options at agency events Veggie Van Go Flu Shot Clinic Smoking Cessation Workshops On-site Blood Pressure Checks On-site pharmacy helps clients stay on track Pharmacy Technician Larry Herbert and Pharmacist Lauren Carter bring Genoa Healthcare’s expertise to UCS’ head office The UCS main office in Bennington offers an on-site pharmacy thanks to a partnership with Genoa Healthcare. Genoa specializes in addressing the needs of the behavioral health and substance-use disorder communities; people living with complex, chronic conditions; and lowering the barriers that prevent people from getting— and staying— on their treatment. They work closely with UCS client care teams and caregivers. UCS’ Genoa pharmacist, Lauren Carter, was recognized this year as Top Site Manager of all Genoa locations across the country. According to the company, “The Genoa Outstanding Achievement Awards reflect our mission to provide the best quality pharmacy care possible by recognizing and rewarding team members who go above and beyond for the. communities we serve.” PROJECT ALLIANCE: Area nonprofits working together to address big issues In June, UCS, along with other members of Project Alliance, presented the documentary Just Getting By, followed by a facilitated discussion led by the film’s creator, Bess O’Brien Project Alliance is a consortium of nonprofit organizations, the town of Bennington, public safety departments, community members, schools, state agencies, and groups serving at-risk populations, all working together to address the root causes of problems in our community. Representatives from each group meet monthly for a facilitated conversation led by UCS Executive Director Lorna Mattern. EMERGENCY SERVICES: Providing safety and care in Bennington County Rachel Muñoz, AssistantDirector of Emergency Services, leadsthe team in our community responseto an ever-increasing demand forassistance during crisis. UCS provides emergency mental health services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, every day of the year. The goal is to provide immediate assistance to community members during what may be some of the worst moments of their lives. Our Emergency Services team helps ensure a person’s safety during the crisis and provides information and referrals for ongoing services if needed. As part of a statewide initiative to respond to the increased need for mental health and substance use intervention across Vermont, UCS offers Enhanced Mobile Crisis Services. Like our other emergency services, the Mobile Crisis Program is available around the clock. It involves a 2-person, in-person response anywhere in Bennington County. Our Emergency Services staff also step in to offer external support when crises arise in the community. After a recent tragedy, one community member said, “UCS has been remarkable, amazing—an ‘A Team’ of outreach and support.” In 2023, UCS also expanded our Harm Reduction Program, teaming up with the Aids Project of Southern Vermont to provide access to sterile syringes and harm reduction supplies, NARCAN, sharps disposal, HIV and Hepatitis C testing and information, and substance use treatment referrals at no cost to community members. Further extending into the community, we now have two Crisis Specialists embedded with law enforcement, one with the Vermont State Troopers Shaftsbury Station, and one with the Bennington Police Department. The embedded Crisis Specialist responds with troopers and officers to manage and deescalate calls for service, helping create a safer community for all. Nutrition for Mental Health Class Visits GNAT TV UCS Staff on the set of GNAT-TV’s Potluck Kitchen. Our Nutrition for Mental Health Class, led by Nurse Practitioner Wendy Sergeant, recently visited GNAT TV to take part in an episode of the Potluck Kitchen cooking show. During the session, the group prepared a wholesome dish of roasted vegetables with quinoa while exploring the important connection between nutrition and mental well-being. The discussion highlighted how key nutrients play a role in supporting the production of serotonin — a brain chemical that helps boost mood and promote emotional balance. NEW STAFFED LIVING PROGRAM expands housing opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities Shared living resident shows off her kitchen prowess This year we opened the doors to a new Staffed Living Program, creating a safe and supportive home for individuals with developmental disabilities who require significant emotional, behavioral, and medical support. The program, which launched with a two-apartment housing unit serving three residents, is staffed around the clock. The goal: to provide not only the care residents need, but also the independence and quality of life they deserve. Unlike traditional residential models, the Staffed Living Program emphasizes person-centered support. Each resident’s care plan is tailored to their specific strengths and needs, whether that includes medication management, assistance with daily routines, or learning independent living skills. With staff on site 24 hours a day, residents can count on both safety and stability. The program is designed to help residents grow, thrive, and participate fully in their community. Staff encourage involvement in activities such as cooking, recreation, and local events, all while ensuring medical and behavioral needs are met. “The goal is to promote independence and community connection,” said Bonnie Jamieson, Director of Developmental Services. “We want people to feel empowered to make choices and live their lives with dignity.” The new housing unit responds to a growing demand for specialized residential options for individuals with developmental disabilities. By combining professional care with a welcoming home environment, the program aims to set a higher standard for residential support services in the region. JOY ON A TAGALONG: Pedaling together brightens the day. DS client enjoys riding on the Tagalong as a UCS staffer pedals the lead bike The Bike Hub in Bennington generously donated a tagalong bike to our Developmental Services (DS) program. Tagalong bikes offer a fun, safe, and inclusive way for individuals with disabilities to enjoy bicycling alongside a partner. Attached to a standard bicycle, the tagalong provides stability and security while allowing the rider to actively participate in the cycling experience without the full demands of balance or independent navigation. This adaptive option supports physical activity, builds confidence, and fosters social connection, making cycling accessible to riders of all abilities. This amazing gift means our clients who once faced barriers to riding can now feel the joy of cycling. Community Engagement Spotlight • UCS’ table at the Better Bennington Council’s Mayfest celebration encouraged passersby to add their words of encouragement to the tree. • UCS staff, clients, and families participated in Bennington’s Pride march and block party, enjoying a day of connection and celebrating the diversity of our vibrant community. • Volunteers from UCS, AIDS Project of Southern Vermont, and Turning Point Recovery Center of Bennington joined forces to clean up a former encampment for individuals experiencing homelessness. Throughout the year, UCS joins forces with our community partners to support our neighbors across Bennington County. Leadership & Financials Back to top Board of Directors The Board of Directors oversees the operations of the community mental health and developmental services for Bennington County. Robert W. Thompson, President Nathaniel Marcoux, Vice President William Baldwin, Secretary Stephanie Mulligan, Treasurer David Ballou Charlie Letourneau (retired) Joanna Mintzer Heidi Moore Lee Romano Source of Funds Category Amount UCS Generated Medicaid 76% Local Revenues 7% Other Fees 5% Other State Grants 5% Department of Mental Health 3% Division of Substance Use Programs 3% Department of Developmental Services 1% Use of Funds by Program Category Amount Developmental Services 51% Rehabilitation & Treatment for Mentally Ill 20% Children 12% Adults 2% Community Programs 10% Substance Use 2% Emergency 1% Budgeted Expenses for Fiscal 2024-25 Category Amount Salaries $15,230,443 Fringe Benefits $3,468,789 Other Personnel Costs $5,864,644 Operating Expenses $2,864,754 Travel & Transportation $482,929 Building Expenses $1,288,946 Total Expenses $29,200,505 Budgeted Income for Fiscal 2024-25 Category Amount Medicaid $22,551,575 Fees & 3rd Party Payments $411,570 Vt. Division of Substance Use Programs $787,681 Vt. Dept. of Mental Health $948,598 Vt. Dept. of Developmental Services $133,532 Other State Contracts $1,452,489 Local Revenue $1,929,747 Miscellaneous $985,313 Total Revenue $29,200,505 Annual Fund & Fundraising Events Back to top 2024-25 Annual Fund Those we serve are at the heart of everything we do—helping people to grow, develop, recover and lead their best possible lives. We welcome your unrestricted donations to our General Fund or your contributions to one of our named funds. With your help we can continue to provide much-needed individual and group services and education, and reduce mental health stigma in our community. General Fund Donations to our General Fund will be used to support services and programs in all areas, as determined by current needs. Charlie’s Fund Charles “Charlie” Goodwin was hardworking, always holding down several jobs. His love of animals inspired him to volunteer at Second Chance Animal Shelter. Charlie’s Fund supports efforts to raise awareness of the importance of wellbeing by reducing the stigma often associated with seeking treatment. The fund assists with programming and education designed to fight stigma and support understanding. People with mental health conditions are not alone, and Charlie’s fund helps us get the word out. Erin Skaar Memorial Fund Erin cared deeply about both the two- and four-legged residents of Bennington County. Those who knew and loved her would say, “She would care for any critter that crossed her path in need of love and nurturing.” Erin extended her heart to others, and her memorial fund will carry out her wish to help alleviate suffering. Contributions will be used to facilitate a way out for those in violent relationships, improve advocacy for children, enable participation in equine-assisted psychotherapy, and conduct outreach to the greater Bennington community. Gregory S. Hillman Fund Gregory S. Hillman was a spirited young man who had attended Reed College. He was a highly accomplished musician and athlete, always there for friends in need. Hillman Fund supports youth suicide prevention initiatives, including providing Youth Mental Health First Aid training and additional youth suicide prevention programs at no cost to the community. Thank you to our 2024-25 donors! 100% of Board Members Contribute $10,000 and up William J. Drunsic, The Right Track Foundation Barbara Ann Reilly Helen Elisabeth Bartlett Sturges Trust Phillips Family Foundation The TJX Foundation, Inc.* $5,000 – $9,999 The Alcyon Foundation Claudia and Peter Kinder Chavermoritable Fund of the Vermont Community Foundation $2,500 – $4,999 Anonymous Community Foundation for a greater Richmond* Peter and Lisa Hillman*** Morse Hill Foundation Vermont Donor Advised Fund of the Vermont Community Foundation Alice Sandler and Dale Raisig In honor of Joanna Mintzer $1,000 – $2,499 The Bank of Bennington Austin Chinn Cheryl L. Ehrgott, Esq. Christopher and Kirsty Elwell Mike and Heidi Lynn Paul H. Parker Robert Tarnas and Barbara Raskin Robert Wood Johnson Foundation** In memory of Charlie Goodwin $500 – $999 Anonymous In memory of Elain Letourneau The Avocado Pit LLC Roger and Julia Bolton In memory of Dr. Nicholas Danforth Juliette Combe Larson Brian and Janice Cunningham Dean Dixon Peter and Nancy Scattergood Donavan Mary G. Gossart** Stuart and Colleen Hoskins Kelly and Webber Hudson Lorna and Tom Mattern Keith and Pam Nemlich In memory of Gerrit Kouwenhoven Alice and Ross Sandler In honor of Joanna Mintzer Laura Walker and Albert Wells White Light Foundation Susan and Rev. Ted Wright $250 – $499 Anonymous In memory of Donald Stearns James and Laura Clune John and Lisa Cueman The Carthy Family** Margaret and Robert Gibbons In memory of Dana Zazinski Hayden Plumbing and Heating Inc. In honor of the Team at Hayden Plumbing & Heating Richard and Martha Heilemann James Howe and Mark Davis In honor of Joanna Mintzer Michael and Susan McKenna Michael Molloy Marylou Monroe* Alison Nowak and Robert Crane, the Ira and Anne Kaplan Fund of the Vermont Community Foundation Joseph and Sandy O’Dea Dale and Craig Raisig Alya Reeve Linda Rollyson Town of Winhall Wassick Tire Service $100 – $249 Anonymous John and Karen Ahearn Angela & Jack Appelman Bennington Express Lube & Car Wash Bill and Ruth Botzow Roberta Lynch Carroll Deborah and John Cave Kenneth and Lila Cestone Charles and Kathryn Chamberlain Agnes Charlesworth Nancy Charlesworth in honor of Joanna Mintzer C.L. White, Inc. Sarah Dahl and Charles Salem Caroline Dalgliesh Wade and Roberta Devlin-Scherer Jane and Stephen Duda Kay Dunn Bas Bleu Group in memory of Dana Zazinski John Ezell Robert Fallon and Joan Leenig Donald R. Ferrell PhD In honor of Joanna Luria Mintzer Virginia Freeman Barbara Goodwin** John and Bonnie Halpin In honor of Robert Thompson Marilyn and Jim Hand Elaine Harwood In memory of Catherine Harwood Sheperd Jean Haynes In memory of Julie Held Darlene J. Hazelton In memory of Ray Andrews John Hearst Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation** Patricia Lapham Tom and Marie Litowinsky In memory of Louise M. Hahn Carson Martinez In memory of Dana Zazinski Stephen and Catherine McClure Claire Merritt In honor of Joanna Mintzer Curtis Merrow Monument Electric Bruce and Nancy Nash Brenda W. Nicholson In memory of MJ Valerie and Martin Oakland David and Gail O’Brien In honor of John and Bonnie Halpin Ocean State Job Lot Dr. Peter and Mrs. Mary Pezzulich In memory of Dr. Peter Scully Ralph and Mary Provenza Charles and Linda Putney Margi and Andy Putney In memory of Claire Reid Dale Raisig In honor of Joanna Mintzer Nathan Randall** Richard and Nancy Stearns Richard and Doreen Sylwester David and Kathleen A. Truskowski In memory of Claire Reid Mike and Jillian Veitch Vermont Timber Works, Inc. Michael Sr. and Rebecca Ware Bruce T. Welsh Lynn and Scott Welsh Up to $99 Anonymous In memory of those who lost their lives to suicide Gloria Alexander In memory of Robert Alexander Rita Allard In memory of George A Allard Alan Bashevkin and Nancy Pearlman Mrs. Lois Beardwood In honor of Catherine Hickey, MD Robert and Jean Canavan In memory of Claire E. Reid Marlyn Couture In memory of Kimberly Couture Rist Margaret Daly** Jordan and Derry Dickinson Henrietta Edgar Stacy Fielding** Jonah Foxman In memory of Dana Zazinski Heidi and Jon French Joana Genova-Rudiakov and Ariel Rudiakov Jane Goodwin** Demetra Greenlaw Louis and Marie Guariniello Henry and Kathy Hall Dorothy C. Halvorsen David and Diane Howard William Innes Ivanna Kerod Reed In honor of mental health workers Edwin I. Lawrence Alan and Terry Lindsey Gennaro and Diana Lobosco Reagan Lukefahr In honor of Dana Wendel Claire Lyons Lyons Family In memory of Dana Zazinski David Malinowski Fran and John Marino** Karyl Marsigli Mary C McGuinness Ross McIntyre and Helen Whyte William and Patricia Nealon Douglas O’Dowd David and Marsha Pilachowski Helen W Rogers Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1332 The Vermont Country Store Phyllis L. Warren Gail Wood *United Children’s Services **Charlie’s Fund ***Gregory S. Hillman Fund View all Donors Barn Sale The Barn Sale is a beloved annual event held at the Northshire Civic Center, bringing the community together for a two-day tag sale unlike any other. Throughout the year, dedicated volunteers from the Barn Sale Committee collect, sort, price, and transport tens of thousands of donated items—all in preparation for this special weekend. The committee’s tireless efforts make a lasting impact on our comm 2025 Barn Sale Committee. unity. Every dollar raised directly supports UCS’ Northshire Services, including outpatient mental health and counseling, psychiatry, substance use treatment, and childr en, youth, and family programs. In 2025, the Barn Sale raised over $90,000—an incredible achievement that reflects both the generosity of donors and the hard work of volunteers. Superhero 5K and Kids’ Dash Hundreds gathered at the Berkshire Family YMCA on November 2, 2024 for the 7th Annual UCS Superhero 5K and Kids’ Dash, raising support for Teens4Change, a peer-led program that empowers Bennington County teens to connect, meet weekly, plan events, and give back to their community. We are grateful to our sponsors for making this celebration of fitness, fun, and youth leadership possible: 2024 Sponsors: Invincible: Caped Crusaders: Guardians: Aquaman: Defender: Champion: United Children’s Services Bennington County Head Start and Early Head Start provide essential services for children from birth to age 5. We partner with parents, teachers, and community members to create meaningful, measurable change. Back to top Head Start turns 60 This year, the Bennington community gathered at UCS’ Spring Center to mark the 60th anniversary of the federal Head Start Program. The celebration brought together families, educators, leaders, and neighbors to honor a program that has shaped the lives of countless children. Posters at the 60th Anniversary event capture the history of Head Start in Bennington County Head Start staff guided guests on tours of the facility, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the classrooms where so many young learners begin their journeys. A highlight of the day was a tribute to Betsy Rathbun-Gunn, UCS’ former Director of Early Childhood Services, who dedicated her career to supporting the county’s youngest children and their families. In recognition of her enduring impact, the Spring Center was officially dedicated in her honor, with a commemorative plaque unveiled during the event. The celebration also drew distinguished guests, including representatives from Senator Peter Welch’s office and Vermont State Representatives Mary Morrissey and Will Greer. Their presence underscored the significance of Head Start’s legacy and the continued importance of investing in early childhood education. Pownal Center Opens: A new chapter for the town’s youngest learners Pownal Center Ribbon Cutting Families, staff, and community members gathered in Pownal to celebrate a milestone nearly three decades in the making. On September 10, 2024, United Counseling Service (UCS) proudly hosted the grand opening of its brand-new Head Start/Early Head Start building, welcoming the public with open arms and open doors. Visitors saw firsthand the environments where learning, play, and discovery will happen every day. Since 1995, UCS has offered Head Start programming at its Pownal site, becoming a trusted partner for local families. With the addition of the new facility, the organization can offer more opportunities for infants and toddlers to receive quality care and learning experiences. For the first time, families in Pownal can access a comprehensive program that supports all children under age five in one convenient location. This not only eases daily logistics for parents but also ensures continuity of care as children advance through the programs. is incredibly supportive, and is deeply invested in the economic mobility of the families she serves. School Readiness Percentage of children meeting or exceeding age-level expectation: Social and Emotional Development • 82% of infants and toddlers (decreased 8% from fall*)*(due to difference in enrollment between fall and spring and assessment dates, with rolling enrollment, not regression)• 80% of preschoolers (increased 45% from fall) Language Development• 78% of infants and toddlers (increased 7% from fall)• 67% of preschoolers (increased 29% from fall) Literacy Development• 92% of infants and toddlers (increased 4% from fall)• 52% of preschoolers (increased 10% from fall) Mathematics• 89% of infants and toddlers (increased 4% from fall)• 67% of preschoolers (increased 11% from fall) Approaches to Learning• 91% of infants and toddlers (increased 3% from fall)• 71% of preschoolers (increased 33% from fall) Physical Development• 88% of infants and toddlers (increased 3% from fall)• 88% of preschoolers (increased 44% from fall) Scientific Reasoning• 97% of preschoolers emerging or meets program expectation (increased 10% from fall) Percentage of enrolled children that received medical examsHead Start: 89 | Early Head Start: 66 Percentage of enrolled children that received dental examsHead Start: 67 | Early Head Start: 22 *This year’s data is lower than historical progress and spring data due to Head Start Full Enrollment Initiative and 23 children moving from the infant and toddler group to the preschooler group mid-year. Family Engagement During the 2024–2025 program year, Head Start/Early Head Start hosted 15 family engagement events designed to strengthen family connections and support early childhood development. Events ranged from seasonal pop-up outings such as apple picking, sledding, and playground meetups, as well as center-based activities like pumpkin painting, soup-mix making, and seed planting. Events focusing on father engagement included Birdhouse Building with Dad and Winging It with Dad—a social gathering for fathers featuring free chicken wings and soda in a relaxed, welcoming environment. In addition to our own family programming, we participated in 19 community events and held several pop-up events to extend our reach and connect with families in accessible, informal settings. Among these well-attended events were Sunrise Summer Jams, Midnight Madness, and YMCA Healthy Kids Day. • These opportunities allowed us to share resources, build relationships, and promote family well-being while strengthening our presence in the broader community. Revenue FY 2024-25 Category Amount US Department of Health & Human Services $3,183,166 State/Local Contracts $2,799,646 Fee for Service $344,500 Miscellaneous $396,490 Total Revenue $6,723,620 Expenses FY 2024-25 Category Amount Salaries $4,100,411 Fringe Benefits $788,308 Other Personnel Costs $351,162 Operating Expenses $768,788 Travel & Transportation $138,859 Building Expenses $569,640 Miscellaneous Expenses $6,452 Total Expenses $6,723,620