SerVermont - Plainfield Emergency Management VISTA

Overview

Plainfield, located in Washington County just east of Montpelier, is a small town that has built a strong network of partners to prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies – particularly flooding, which has significantly impacted the community in recent years. This work is supported by the local community, state agencies, and volunteer organizations. Plainfield Emergency Management leads disaster preparedness and response efforts, including flood inundation planning, emergency evacuations, and operation of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and shelter when needed.

A key partner, the Hazard Mitigation Committee, focuses on reducing long‑term risk through planning, recommendations, and strategies that strengthen community resilience. Together, these entities prepare for, educate about, and assess likely emergency scenarios each year to establish realistic priorities and effective mitigation strategies. Emergency management operations also prioritize clear and accessible communication with the public through meetings, requests for help, alerts, and urgent updates.

Ensuring that critical information is easy to understand helps residents and visitors stay informed and prepared. This work also emphasizes support for vulnerable populations through sheltering and evacuation protocols for those who are displaced, elderly, or living with illness or disabilities. Through hazard mitigation planning, public communication and networking, mapping, and documentation of disaster impacts, Plainfield continues to strengthen its ability to care for the community and build a resilient foundation for future emergency response.

• Study disaster impacts and recovery of Plainfield residents.
• Support community outreach and education to build the town’s capacity to assist with disaster planning and recovery for all residents.
• Help oversee and document disaster preparedness and response efforts to improve productivity and efficiency.
• Assist with shelter planning, mapping, volunteer coordination, and community surveys.
• Contribute to community meetings and conduct field visits.

• Community organization
• Leadership
• First aid
• Teamwork
• Writing and editing
• Computers/technology
• Communications
• GIS
• Microsoft Office

• Living allowance
• Choice of education award or end‑of‑service stipend
• Training and education award upon successful completion of service
• Health coverage*
• Relocation allowance
• Childcare assistance if eligible

* For details about Ameri Corps VISTA healthcare benefits, please visit

• Car recommended.
• Permits attendance at school during off hours.
• Permits working at another job during off hours.

• Public safety
• Community outreach and education
• Disaster relief
• Neighborhood revitalization

Caitlin Perrier
149 Main St
Plainfield VT 05667

caitlin.perrier