St. Albans, VT — [October 16, 2025] — The Rotary Club of St. Albans proudly demonstrated its ongoing commitment to community health and wellness at a recent award ceremony at the Hard’ack Greg Brown Lodge where it presented two significant donations totaling $128,000 to local organizations.
An $8,000 check was presented to Hope Grove Recovery to support the renovation of their newly acquired facilities – kitchen updates.
Erin Creley, Board Member shared: “Hope Grove Recovery is the first recovery house for women in St Albans. Now, our friends and neighbors in recovery do not need to leave St Albans to get the care and community they need”. The funds will help enhance the environment for individuals on their journey to recovery, furthering the organization’s mission of providing compassionate and comprehensive support for those affected by substance use disorder.
Kate Blouin, Executive Director stated, “This donation will help us create a space where women can rebuild their lives with dignity and support. We are incredibly grateful to the Saint Albans Rotary Club for believing in their strength and potential.”
In a major show of support for regional healthcare, the Rotary Club also presented a check for $120,000 to Peter Wright, CEO of Northwestern Medical Center (NMC), and Dr. Steven Anisman, Cardiologist, representing the net proceeds from the inaugural Rotary Champ Challenge, held at Kill Kare State Park on July 28”7, 2025. These funds are designated to advance Cardiac Care programs at NMC, allowing the hospital to expand its capabilities and better serve the health needs of the Franklin County community.
“I’m not sure words can accurately describe how moved and honored we are to receive this extremely generous gift,” said Peter J. Wright, FACHE, President & CEO of NMC. “It is heart-warming that so many people came together to help advance cardiac care in our community. This gift will help save lives and improve the health of our community. On behalf of the entire NMC team, a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to everyone involved in helping make it happen
“We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support from sponsors, participants, and volunteers who made the Rotary Champ Challenge a success,” said Past Rotary President Karyn Rocheleau. “These contributions reflect the spirit of Rotary — ‘Service Above Self’ — and our continued dedication to supporting vital programs in our region.”
The Rotary Club of St. Albans remains committed to empowering local organizations through service and philanthropy, and looks forward to continuing its work to strengthen the community.
