Leaders join Age Well to strengthen support for Vermont’s aging population

Vermont Business Magazine As Vermont’s population continues to age faster than nearly every other state in the nation, the need for strong, community-based support for older adults has never been more urgent. With Vermont now the second-oldest state in the U.S.—and a growing share of residents over 65 expected in the years ahead—Age Well is strengthening its leadership at a pivotal moment by welcoming four respected community leaders to its Advisory Council to help ensure older Vermonters remain healthy, independent, and connected at home.

Age Well’s mission is to empower and support individuals as they age by providing community connection and access to services. With demand continuing to grow, local leadership is more important than ever. Advisory Council members bring deep community insight to ensure programs meet real needs across every county served. The new appointments align with Age Well’s strategic plan, which emphasizes equity, expanded outreach, and stronger community partnerships across Addison, Chittenden, Franklin, and Grand Isle counties.

Newly appointed council members—Mark Chadurjian, Chea Waters Evans, Christine Baldwin, and Jeff Smith—bring a powerful combination of professional expertise, public service leadership, and community insight that will help guide Age Well’s work as demand for aging services continues to rise.

Strengthening Community Voice Through the Advisory Council

The Advisory Council plays a critical role in shaping the organization’s Area Plan, ensuring that local priorities, emerging challenges, and the perspectives of diverse and underserved populations are reflected in planning and decision-making. Council members advise on county-specific needs, provide feedback on program strategy, and help guide responses to policy changes, including proposed waivers from the Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living.

Together, the council ensures that each county has a voice as Age Well expands services and strengthens community-based solutions for older adults. Members provide guidance on high-impact issues, review and recommend input on the Area Plan, and offer informed recommendations on county needs and policy matters.

Meet the New Advisory Council Members

Mark Chadurjian (Principal, ClearPath IP Law – Burlington)

“As an active volunteer, I have seen the difference Age Well makes in its ongoing, energetic support of seniors,” said Chadurjian. “I look forward to applying those volunteer experiences, as well as my professional skills, to assist the Advisory Council in its efforts to support Age Well’s programming.”

Chea Waters Evans (Vermont State Representative, Charlotte & Hinesburg)
Evans serves as Ranking Member of the House Government Operations and Military Affairs Committee and Assistant Majority Leader for Internal Communications. A longtime volunteer with Meals on Wheels and the Charlotte Senior Center, she brings both legislative experience and hands-on service to her role.
“Vermont is lucky to have such a sizable aging population, and I adore spending my volunteer time with those folks,” said Evans. “I’m excited to combine my volunteer work and legislative work through the Advisory Council.”

Christine Baldwin (Redhead Media – Colchester, VT)
After returning to Vermont in 2018, Baldwin began volunteering with Age Well through Meals on Wheels, where she has worked closely with staff and clients for more than five years.

“Serving seniors in the community has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” Baldwin said. “I’m grateful to now bring that experience and perspective to the Advisory Council.”

Jeff Smith (Senior Vice President of Lending, NorthCountry Federal Credit Union – Burlington)
Jeff has worked at NorthCountry FCU for 23 years. He manages all lending operations and champions NorthCountry’s Financial Empowerment work, which focuses on helping individuals and families thrive financially. Much of that work involves community partnerships with local non-profit organizations serving underserved and marginalized communities.
“I chose to serve because many of our seniors are among our most vulnerable, and Age Well is deeply committed to supporting them. If I can play even a small role in strengthening that work, it is worth it,” said Smith.

Driving Age Well’s Mission Forward

With the addition of these leaders, Age Well is well positioned to advance its strategic goals and respond to the growing needs of Vermont’s aging population. Their collective expertise will help ensure that older adults across the region can continue to age with dignity, independence, and connection.

About Age Well: Founded in 1974, Age Well is the Area Agency on Aging for Addison, Chittenden, Franklin, and Grand Isle counties. The nonprofit provides essential services including Meals on Wheels, care coordination, wellness programs, transportation, and caregiver support—powered by dedicated staff and more than 1,000 volunteers. Age Well empowers older adults to live safely, independently, and with dignity. Visit: agewellvt.org/about/leadership/