Who We Are
The Community Health Action Team (CHAT) is the Accountable Community for Health (ACH) serving Addison County, Vermont. Formed through a partnership between Porter Medical Center, United Way of Addison County, Blueprint for Health, public health agencies, social service organizations, and community members, CHAT brings together diverse voices to improve the health and well-being of our community.
Our Vision
A community where everyone in Addison County can live, work, and thrive in good health.
Our Mission
CHAT’s mission is to advance the health and well-being of Addison County residents through collaboration, innovation, and shared accountability. Guided by data and community voice, we work to ensure every person has access to the conditions that support a healthy, thriving life.
Our Structure
CHAT is a collaborative initiative co-facilitated by United Way of Addison County, Porter Medical Center, and Blueprint for Health.
Our Purpose
CHAT exists to convene, connect, and catalyze cross-sector efforts that:
- Address the social drivers of health
- Improve community health outcomes
- Reduce health inequities
Together, we identify local priorities, align resources, and implement sustainable solutions that make a measurable difference.
What We Do
CHAT uses a population health approach informed by the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) and Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP). Through shared data, community input, and coordinated action, CHAT partners collaborate on initiatives such as:
- Expanding access to mental health and substance use services
- Supporting food and housing security
- Promoting health equity and prevention
- Coordinating community response during public health crises
How We Work
- The CHAT Leadership Team meets regularly to guide strategy, governance, and progress.
- Topic-specific workgroups focus on CHIP priority areas, designing and implementing interventions, and sharing best practices.
- Community partners and residents are engaged at every level to ensure our work reflects local strengths and needs.
Our Goals
CHAT serves as a space for local partners to:
- Share critical updates across sectors
- Align work on CHIP priorities
- Advance collaborative projects that promote a healthier Addison County
Aligned Collaboratives
CHAT convenes several community efforts connected to CHIP priorities, including:
- Housing & Health
- Trauma-Informed Practices
- Substance Use Prevention Coalition
- Transportation Access
- Community Education & Events
Meeting Structure
- Cadence: Every other month
- Location: United Way of Addison County office (in-person or hybrid)
- Duration: 90 minutes
Our Commitments to Collaboration
- Connection & Welcome – Introduce new staff and strengthen relationships between organizations.
- Community Resource Sharing – Dedicate time to highlight services, programs, and supports.
- Ongoing Evaluation – Close each meeting by asking: “What did we get right, and how can we improve?”
