MEREDITH — The Greater Meredith Program, a nonprofit community development organization, hosted its 2026 Annual Meeting — Meredith in Motion: Celebrating Progress, Shaping the Future — on Jan. 15, in the Church Landing Ballroom. Nearly 100 community members attended to celebrate a year marked by collaboration, creativity, and volunteer-driven impact.
The evening featured Meredith’s new Town Manager Judie Milner, who shared updates on town initiatives and discussed alignment with GMP’s mission and long-term Main Street vision. GMP leadership — including Executive Director Heather LaDue, President Michelle Brown, Vice President Wendell Rizzo, and Treasurer Dick Pendergast — provided updates on organizational progress.
LaDue highlighted GMP’s continued focus on economic vitality, community events, historic and cultural preservation, and beautification efforts. Under the leadership of the board of directors, all five standing committees and two subcommittees successfully completed their 2025 workplans, with increased volunteer engagement across programs. A notable development was the launch of a new Volunteer Task Force aimed at better connecting residents with meaningful opportunities.
The 2026 board of directors was introduced, welcoming new members Stacie Street, Karin Nelson, and Janine Neggers (alternate).
Throughout 2025, GMP advanced initiatives including design and beautification projects, the 12th year of the Meredith Sculpture Walk, collaborative Main Street planning, the growing Career Partnership Program with Inter-Lakes School District, and a robust calendar of community events.
Community Awards were presented to Andrea Harper (Board Member of the Year), Tom Witham (Volunteer of the Year), Cackleberries Garden Center owner Laurie Perry (Outstanding Business Supporter), Andrew Eaton of Art of Turning (Community Spirit Award), and retiring Parks & Rec Director Vint Choiniere (Special Recognition Award).
Looking ahead to 2026, GMP remains committed to strengthening Main Street, aligning with town priorities, and expanding opportunities for community involvement.
For more information, visit greatermeredith.org.
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