The core work of BALE – Building A Local Economy – is to plant the seeds of a new economy in Vermont… here in the White River Valley as an on-the-ground model – serving as a network and resource center for both community engagement activity and deeper transformative work. We are at a turning point in our civilization’s history, having created an economic and social order that is depleting the natural resources and life systems on which we survive. Climate crisis is the wake-up call and many people are waking up to the challenge. Put in the context described by eco-philosopher Joanna Macy, we are at a time of the “Great Turning” and our work necessarily should focus on three aspects of change: 1. Actions to slow the damage to Earth and its beings 2. Analysis of structural causes and the creation of structural alternatives 3. A shift in consciousness

 We are, admittedly, at an early stage on the path to a life-sustaining economy, so the intention is about building relationships, networks, collaborations, and deepening experiences that draw more people into awareness and engagement. As well, it is about building community resilience and participation, without which change cannot occur. BALE is a community resource center for local economy initiatives in the White River Valley of Vermont. Formed in 2011, we have started with simple projects that help create a presence and a basic knowledge of our goals in the community. We have a welcoming community space, we organize an annual one-day “Celebration of All Things Local,” we produce a Locally Grown Guide for the White River Valley, and we are working on development of an effective and informational web portal for the region. For the coming year, it is BALE’s goal to maintain its existing endeavors and develop two new projects; the education and engagement “Why Build A Local Economy” program and White River Food and Farm, which is a focusing of our efforts on farm and local food development. There will be other educational programming as well, as local volunteers and inspired community members take leadership in projects that fit appropriately within the goals of BALE.
Founded in 2011
35 South Windsor St.
PO Box 211
South Royalton, United States
www.balevt.org
[email protected]

Uploaded by Chris Wood (I am the FOUNDER or MAIN CONTACT POINT for this project)