For generations, the Hilltowns have been a place where dreams of self-reliance and realities of interdependence weave together to help create the messy fabric of our culture, beautiful and imperfect. Hilltown Vision looks to preserve what brought and keeps us here, and to improve upon this place we call home, with humility rather than hubris.
Hilltown Vision first came into being out of concern over a proposal for a Dollar General store in Cummington. The visceral “No!” that reverberated throughout the hills — ultimately decisively ending that nightmare chain store scenario — helped focus the question: “If not that, then what?”
Part of the answer is the need to support local enterprises, strengthen community connections, and foster an appreciation of the natural resources and beauty that surround us.
To that end, we have sponsored arts festivals and stargazing events, and helped Hilltowners move forward with a variety of projects in line with our vision, including the Cummington Cultural District, Cummington Tree Alliance and Momentum AG. Our area’s beloved Hilltown Theatre Anonymous is now also partnered with Hilltown Vision.
Our first project, “Friends of the Creamery,” continues to allow community members to make charitable contributions to support the Old Creamery Cooperative, our local food co-op and community hub. In the fall of 2022, we hosted a community party to celebrate the Creamery’s 10th anniversary as a cooperatively owned business.
Hilltown Vision’s corporate purpose is to support activities that further a common vision for an ecologically and financially sustainable rural economy and culture in the Hampshire County Hilltowns; and to support the education and training of community members about the nature and benefits of cooperation and community engagement.
While Hilltown Vision and the New Rural Advocate began on parallel paths, they quickly converged. This website is now a virtual home for Hilltown Vision, which in turn — formally incorporated in 2019 as a 501(c)(3), the Hilltown Vision Fund, Inc. — provides a nonprofit home for the New Rural Advocate.
Our Board Members:
Katy Eiseman, President
Marty Schotz, Secretary
Josh Wachtel, Treasurer
Rosemary Wessel
Lincoln Fishman
Hilltown Vision
509 Stage Road
Cummington, MA 01026
EIN: 84-2745552
The New Rural Advocate 