South Burlington, VT – Vermonters and local Vermont organizations came together in a remarkable showcase of community spirit to gather more than $111,000 for the 2024 Empty Bowl Dinner. This annual event supports Spectrum Youth & Family Services, an organization committed to providing essential services and resources to young people in need.

Mark Redmond, Executive Director at Spectrum Youth and Family Services, expressed gratitude, saying, "This year's Empty Bowl Event was a resounding success. Thanks to the unwavering support of partners like Vermont Federal Credit Union and the countless generous contributors, we are able to provide vital resources to our local youth who need it most."

This year's Empty Bowl Dinner, sponsored by Vermont Federal Credit Union, was held on October 10th, 2024. The funds raised during this event provide crucial support for Vermont's youth grappling with homelessness and other significant hardships. These funds will help ensure that vulnerable young individuals can access the necessary resources and assistance to improve their lives and work towards a brighter future.

"Young individuals are the heart and soul of Vermont's future, and we are privileged to join hands with Spectrum in making a difference to address homelessness and the many challenges faced by our community's youth," stated Jean Giard, President and CEO of Vermont Federal Credit Union.

Held each October, the Empty Bowl Dinner unites community members and supporters from all walks of life. This event offers attendees the opportunity to select a beautifully crafted ceramic bowl made by talented local potters. These bowls are not just keepsakes but also serve as vessels for the delicious soups generously donated by a variety of local restaurants. Beyond enjoying a meal, guests are encouraged to purchase essential items for Spectrum youth through the online Giving Board, such as personal care items, textbooks, or winter clothes. The Giving Board was met with overwhelming support this year, raising more than $20,000.

About Spectrum Youth and Family Services 
Spectrum Youth and Family Services helps struggling teenagers, young adults, and their families get the support they need to turn their lives around. Located in Burlington, Vermont, Spectrum serves about 1,500 youth and their family members each year. For more information, please visit Spectrum Youth & Family Services.

About Vermont Federal Credit Union 
Vermont Federal Credit Union is a $900 million-plus full-service, not-for-profit, cooperative financial institution that has served Vermonters for more than 70 years, with eight locations currently serving over 55,000 members. Members are part of a cooperative, meaning they share ownership in the Credit Union and elect a volunteer board of directors. Vermont Federal Credit Union provides membership to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in all of Vermont. Vermont Federal Credit Union is committed to supporting its communities and helping Vermonters prosper, no matter where they may be on life’s journey. Learn more about Vermont Federal Credit Union. 

For media inquiries, please contact:

Peter Winch
Vice President of Marketing
pwinch@vermontfederal.org
(802) 658-0225 x 1312