We are pleased to announce that Patient Choices Vermont (PCV) is seeking a full-time Executive Director. You can find the detailed job description here. Please share this opportunity with anyone you believe would be an excellent candidate.

As we've noted in recent months, the demand for PCV’s services has surged over the past couple of years. The inquiries we receive are not only more numerous but also more complex and nuanced. To better serve the growing number of people exploring and utilizing medical aid in dying, we are committed to strengthening our relationships with medical providers, hospice organizations, and our communities. However, our budget and staffing levels have remained unchanged for several years.

"Having dedicated a great deal of work to the cause of end-of-life choice for 22 years, it is time for me to pass the torch to a new Executive Director who can lead PCV into its next chapter," says Betsy Walkerman..

This is a pivotal moment for PCV. To fulfill our proactive mission and address the increasing needs, we must transition to a more robust organizational structure. It is essential for PCV to evolve from a largely founder-driven and volunteer-based model to a full-time staff capable of sustaining our long-term mission. Betsy adds, "Once we appoint our new Executive Director, I will return to my role on the Board of Directors and will continue to help shape our policy and strategy."

Transition Plan Highlights:

• Budget Growth: Our annual budget must increase from $125,000 to $375,000. This is still a modest budget for a small, efficient staff that will continue to leverage the work of volunteers.
• Grant Support: We have secured $80,000 in grants from two national organizations, reflecting the level of service we provide to individuals from other states. The remainder of the $375,000 budget must be generated through PCV fundraising.
• Donor Goals: Historically, donations to PCV have ranged from $3 to $27,000. To sustain our mission, we require 65 donors contributing between $1,000 and $20,000, alongside 550 donors giving between $10 and $1,000. Every contribution matters, no matter the size.

Many of our loyal donors have already committed to increasing their annual contributions, and some have expressed interest in making stock donations. If you would like to discuss any aspect of PCV’s plans or your support, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I would be happy to connect with you.

On behalf of the PCV Board and team, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to the thousands of supporters who have championed our mission since 2002. Your investment has profoundly impacted the end-of-life experiences of countless people.

I am continually moved by the touching notes of thanks we receive. This gratitude reassures our staff and volunteers that our work makes a meaningful difference in peoples’ lives. Recently, we received a donation from the Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) advocacy group in Ohio in honor of our Program Director, Audrey Winograd, recognizing her dedication and our support for out-of-state individuals. 

Here’s a heartfelt message from the family of Rita Mannebach, who accessed MAID in Vermont with our assistance:

“I'm one of Rita's sons. I can't think of words big enough to express my gratitude ("thanks" is far too small!) for everything you did to enable my mom to leave this world peacefully, painlessly, fearlessly, on her own terms. As I'm starting to be able to reflect with a somewhat clearer head, I'm appreciating more and more what an enormous gift it was - for her, and for her family and friends.

I know you know this already, but I'm going to say it anyway: your efforts make a huge difference, to real people, every day. Thank you for your efforts and perseverance - from the bottom of my heart.” — Mike Mannebach

Rita was one of many donors from outside Vermont who are generously supporting our work.

Once again, please let us know if you have recommendations for the right dynamic Executive Director. Feel free to forward this email to anyone you think may be a good fit for this vital role or reach out to me with your suggestions.
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Thank you for your continued support.

​Warm regards,
Betsy J. Walkerman, Esq. President

“My family is grateful every day that Maggie’s death was like her life, 
one of powerful personal choice.”  ~ Katy Lesser

A medical aid in dying law similar to Vermont’s Act 39 has been introduced in the New Hampshire legislature. A hearing is scheduled before the NH House Judiciary Committee on February 7.