BENNINGTON, Vt. — United Counseling Service (UCS) Executive Director Lorna Mattern received the Heart of the Shires Award at the November 8 Southwestern Vermont (SWVT) Chamber of Commerce Heart of the Shires Luncheon at Bennington Museum for exemplifying leadership and service in the community. 

 

CEO of Vermont Public Scott Finn served as the event's keynote speaker, and SWVT Chamber Executive Director Matt Harrington presented awards.

 

 Heart of the Shires Award winner Lorna Mattern joined UCS in 1990 and held many leadership positions, including Director of Youth and Family Services, before taking on the role of Executive Director in 2016. Lorna directs agency operations which include strategic planning and development, financial planning, and resource and policy development, in cooperation with the UCS Board of Directors. 

 

 "I was honored to receive the Heart of the Shires Award," said Mattern. "As I said at the luncheon, I feel honored every day, as I get to work for an organization like UCS and work with extraordinary people."

 

 The Heart of the Shires Luncheon was created to honor organizations and individuals who give back to the community. Along with the Heart of the Shires Award, Bennington County's Habitat for Humanity received the Community Leadership Award and Wendy Chenaille received the Lindy Lynch Volunteer of the Year Award. Fidium Fiber and Coggins Auto Group were presenting sponsors of the luncheon. Supporting sponsors included Shires Young Professionals, Bennington Banner, GNAT-TV, CAT-TV, The Wilson House, Hoffman Real Estate, The Bank of Bennington, Vermont Public, Abuela's Plant Boutique and Floral Design Studio, Pangaea, Iconic Awards and Graphics, VNA & Hospice of the Southwest Region, and Dartmouth Health Southwestern Vermont Medical Center.