
Danial Franklin
MONTPELIER – The Vermont Association for Mental Health and Addiction Recovery (VAMHAR) has appointed Daniel Franklin as its new executive director, effective November 4.
A native of Guilford and resident of Craftsbury, Franklin joins VAMHAR from Jenna’s Promise, where he served as COO and Interim co-executive director and played a crucial role in envisioning and implementing the holistic, wraparound model of care known as the “Recovery Village Model.” This model has garnered statewide and national attention as a paradigm-shifting way to create community-level change, to reduce stigma and better serve people with trauma, substance use disorders and other barriers in their lives.
Franklin previously served as director of North Central Vermont Recovery Center and as vice president for advocacy and community relations at VAMHAR, where his innovative work and leadership in the field and his communities garnered numerous awards including being named a Vermont Business Magazine Rising Star, a Community Prevention Champion, and the Vermont Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports Business Wellness Leader.
With extensive experience in advocacy, community engagement, direct service, and program development, Franklin brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for supporting individuals and families affected by mental health challenges and addictions
“We are thrilled to welcome Daniel Franklin as our new executive director,” said Havah Armstrong Walther, chair of the VAMHAR Board. “His proven leadership and dedication to the cause of mental health and addiction recovery make him the ideal person to lead our organization forward. We are confident that under his guidance, VAMHAR will continue to grow its impact and build hope for Vermonters.”
Franklin expressed his excitement about joining VAMHAR, stating, “I am honored and grateful to join an organization and a team that is dedicated to bold and courageous leadership in our field.
The Vermont Association for Mental Health and Addiction Recovery (VAMHAR) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1939, dedicated to improving the well-being of all Vermonters through advocacy, education, and community support.


