The Mad River Valley’s sense of community and connection came into sharp focus during We Are MRV, a two-day series of events aimed at strengthening civic engagement and volunteerism across the region.
Held on September 19 and September 21, the weekend featured screening of the documentary “Join or Die” at the Big Picture Theater, and a Community Connection Fair at the Inn at the Round Barn Farm. Together, the events attracted hundreds of local residents and highlighted more than 40 community organizations.
The weekend began Friday evening with 100 people attending the documentary “Join or Die” screening. Prior to the film, guests gathered for a happy hour featuring charcuterie from Fifth Quarter, empanadas from Paprika in Waterbury and an open bar sponsored by Bee, a volunteer engagement app that selected the Mad River Valley as one of its featured communities.
The documentary explores the role of civic associations in American democracy and the consequences of declining participation in social clubs and affinity groups. Following the film, attendees split into three facilitated discussion groups led by Ben Olds, Kim Olds, and Pete Colgan. Participants reflected on the importance of social networks and committed to at least one civic action as a result. Organizers Pete Colgan and Marci Lutsky will follow up with attendees in 30 days to assess their progress.
On Sunday, many attendees followed through on their commitment by visiting the Community Connection Fair at the Round Barn. An estimated 250 people attended the event, which brought together dozens of local nonprofits, clubs, and civic organizations eager to welcome new volunteers.
The fair also featured a barbecue lunch organized by the Mad River Valley Rotary Club, supported by Mehuron’s Grocery and Canteen Creemee. Students from Green Mountain Valley School were servers, and live music was provided by The Lifties. The Bee team distributed branded merchandise including hats, T-shirts and stickers. Jim and Kim Donahue hosted the event, donating space at the Joslin Round Barn.
“This event reconfirmed what I knew to be true – the Mad River Valley is richly blessed with many organizations and passionate individuals who, while representing varying interests and nonprofits, share the same deep appreciation for what makes this place special and want to support that with action and not just words,” said Susan Klein, president of the Mad River Valley Rotary, one of the organizing entities.
“The energy around volunteerism was incredible,” said Tom Spencer, who represented stewardMRV at the event. “The most amazing part was seeing every organization in The Valley represented, talking and working together. It was a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we unite around a shared purpose.”
Nancy Emory, who tabled for her “Men of the Mad River Valley” fundraising calendar, said the event felt like a turning point for local civic life. “This is the start of a new beginning for The Valley,” she said.
Colgan emphasized the collaborative nature of the weekend’s success. “I love how everyone came together to make it happen,” he said. “It worked because of the effort we put in, sure. But it mostly worked because we Valley people need and depend on each other. The event gave everyone a chance to remember this again and to celebrate what we can do for each other. It was a great way to show that Rotary is not just about fundraising and grant giving. Hands-on projects like this one are really in our wheelhouse.”
Eric Friedman, executive director of the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce, echoed that sentiment. “Thanks to Marci and Peter for all your efforts to conceptualize it and pull it off,” he said. “It was an absolute pleasure to work with you to help make it happen. It has been an honor.”
Organizers are currently gathering community feedback to determine future events. Comments can be submitted at https://forms.gle/dUbsZbjv5MBoT5TM8.
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