Celebrate the MRV’s “Attitude of Gratitude”
On Thursday, June 11, the Mad River Valley community is invited to gather at the Big Picture Theater for the official launch of Attitude of Gratitude — an inspiring new initiative celebrating the shared responsibility of caring for the places, people, and experiences that make the Mad River Valley so special.
The free community event begins at 6 PM and will feature the premiere screening of the Attitude of Gratitude film, opportunities to meet volunteer actors and project collaborators, food and refreshments, and the chance to sign the community’s new Gratitude Pledge.
This initiative is the culmination of more than three years of collaboration through the Mad River Valley Conservation and Recreation Visioning (CRV) project — a unique partnership involving 15 recreation, conservation, municipal, and community organizations working together to help protect and steward the Valley for generations to come.
At its heart, Attitude of Gratitude is about recognizing that the Mad River Valley’s extraordinary recreation opportunities, conserved landscapes, vibrant farms, trails, rivers, forests, and welcoming community do not happen by accident. They exist because of generations of stewardship, volunteerism, private landowner generosity, local business support, and community collaboration.
The project includes:
- A short film celebrating the Valley and its people
- Community Recreation Ethics Principles
- An “Attitude of Gratitude” Pledge
- Activity-specific outdoor ethics guidance for everything from hiking and mountain biking to skiing, paddling, fishing, and swimming
The messaging is intentionally welcoming and community-focused. Rather than simply telling people what not to do, the initiative encourages residents and visitors alike to embrace a deeper connection to place through gratitude, respect, stewardship, and care.
The core principles encourage all of us to:
- Be present in the moment
- Honor the natural world’s right to exist
- Recognize that access is a privilege
- Choose care over convenience
- Welcome each person we meet
For the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce, the project represents an important reminder that recreation, conservation, community vitality, and economic sustainability are deeply interconnected.
Many of the Valley’s most treasured recreational experiences exist because private landowners and local businesses continue to generously allow access and support stewardship efforts. Likewise, thriving local businesses help sustain the vibrant community that residents and visitors alike value so deeply.
The Chamber is proud to have participated in the Conservation and Recreation Visioning process alongside organizations including the Mad River Path, Mad River Riders, Friends of the Mad River, Mad River Valley Recreation District, Sugarbush Resort, Lawson’s Finest Liquids, and many others who care deeply about the future of this remarkable place.
Whether you are a longtime local, second homeowner, seasonal visitor, or first-time guest, this event is an opportunity to come together and celebrate the spirit of stewardship and collaboration that defines the Mad River Valley.
The event is free and open to all ages. Donations will be accepted at the door.
To learn more or take the pledge, visit Attitude of Gratitude.
