Advocacy

Currently, the JLCV’s advocacy work focuses on addressing Diaper Need in Vermont. Since 2018, the JLCV has operated the JLCV Diaper Bank, supporting 13 out of Vermont’s 14 counties. In concert with the JLCV Diaper Bank Committee, the JLCV Advocacy Committee has urged partners, stakeholders, and lawmakers to take steps toward a sustainable solution to Diaper Need. The Advocacy Committee and JLCV members have participated in Early Childhood Day at the Legislature, organized outreach to members’ lawmakers, and coordinated with Vermont Senators and Representatives to establish a working group on diaper need to recommend a long-term, statewide solution. JLCV also participated in the National Diaper Bank Network call with Senator Leahy to advocate for sustained funding for diaper banks nationally.

Established in 2017, the Advocacy Committee has also advocated for access to early childhood education, including partnering with the Vermont Early Childhood Alliance, advocating legislators for an increase in Vermont’s Child Care Financial Assistance Program, and hosted a film viewing and panel discussion of “The Raising of America: Early Childhood and the Future of Our Nation.”

Done-in-a-Day Projects

Each year, JLCV responds to needs in the community by researching, organizing, and participating in short-term volunteer projects that can be accomplished in just one day.  Projects respond to a variety of community needs. Past “Done-in-a-Day” projects include a Winter clothing drive, Saturday Sort-A-Thons at the Vermont Food Bank, and painting with Vermont Works for Women. Certain aspects of JLCV’s advocacy efforts are also advanced through done-in-a-day or done-in-your-seat projects.

JLCV Diaper Bank

The JLCV established Chittenden County’s first Diaper Bank in 2018.  Since 2018, the JLCV has operated the JLCV Diaper Bank, supporting 13 out of Vermont’s 14 counties. We currently distribute diapers to local food shelves from our South Burlington head quarters, and to date, the JLCV diaper bank has distributed over one million diapers to families in need.

Meals For Spectrum House

Throughout the year, JLCV volunteers prepare and deliver meals to Spectrum House, a Vermont non-profit organization that provides emergency shelter and transitional housing for homeless and at-risk youth.