USDA Rural Development (RD) employees serve the communities of Vermont by delivering business, community, energy, housing and utility programs as well as volunteering their personal time to the communities in which they live.
Deborah Boyd works in the USDA RD Brattleboro Area Office as a Housing Program Loan Officer and has served Southern Vermont for 34 years. Through her work in assisting rural homeowners, Deborah’s awareness of hunger and food insecurity in the community was kindled. Deborah was approached by the Deerfield Valley Food Pantry (DVFP) to join their board.
Deborah has served on the DVFP Board of Directors for eight years as both Secretary and Vice-President. She actively volunteers in DVFP’s food distribution and fund-raising events. Additionally, Deborah is the founder and coordinator of DVFP’s Annual Benefit Motorcycle Ride Fundraiser. The Benefit Ride has grown to be a major fundraising event for the organization.
Recently, Deborah was awarded the President’s Volunteer Service Award. This premier volunteer award recognition program encourages citizens of the United States to live a life of service. “Deborah’s work in this area is vital to helping rural families overcome food insecurity,” stated Acting State Director David Robinson. “Food security and family nutrition are priorities at USDA. Three of the Agencies five highlighted initiatives address food and nutrition. Our entire Vermont – New Hampshire RD Team is very proud Deborah’s work and her recognition.”
