Joyce Cameron, Co-Executive Director of Lake Champlain Maritime Museum (LCMM) has announced that Helena Van Voorst will be joining the Museum staff as Director of Development. “Helena has worked for LCMM in the past, and we are delighted to welcome her back to our Museum team,” Joyce commented. “Our new Maritime Pathways educational initiatives are designed to deliver mission-centered programs all year long and Helena will help us meet our mission to share our maritime heritage and encourage stewardship of the lake’s natural and cultural resources.”
Helena first joined LCMM’s crew as Director of Development in 2006. After her daughter was born, Helena accepted a part-time position managing grants for the Burlington Partnership for a Healthy Community which allowed her to spend more time at home. “Leaving LCMM was an incredibly difficult decision. I felt so connected to the Museum’s community and programs.” Helena now returns to LCMM with 15 years of experience in fundraising, grants management, and sustainability planning. “During my time away from LCMM, I had the opportunity to work in the substance abuse prevention field which is very science and data driven. I look forward to bringing that lens with me to the Museum.”
Helena grew up near Lake Champlain in Ferrisburgh, VT. She attended college in Iowa and lived there for a short time after graduating. Helena now lives in Vergennes with her husband, daughter, son, and two rabbits. She is a certified Results Based Accountability trainer and sits on the Board of Directors at the Champlain Valley Christian School and the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Vergennes.