The Poultney Area Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce Tom DeMatties as Poultney’s Citizen of the Year for 2025. Mr. DeMatties, a lifelong volunteer and dedicated community member, will be formally honored at a public reception on November 9th, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Young at Heart Senior Center in Poultney.

“Poultney has so many wonderful people who are willing to give their time and energy to the betterment of the community,” said Chamber President Elizabeth Ayers. “This year, we are especially proud to recognize Tom DeMatties, whose passionate commitment to intergenerational service and local stewardship truly defines the spirit of a model citizen.”

Mr. DeMatties’ commitment to community service is a lifelong passion, with volunteer work accounting for about a third of the twenty-nine jobs he has held. His service record includes 24 years as a commander of the Royal Rangers boys group and traveling with Samaritan’s Purse to provide disaster relief and rebuilding efforts.

As a math and science teacher at Castleton Elementary, Tom models his civic values for his 6th-grade class by regularly taking them on field trips to the Young at Heart Senior Center. During these valuable visits, his students have made decorations, prepared meals, done yard work, and even built picnic tables for the center, successfully connecting young people with their community’s senior generation.

Tom’s commitment extends to maintaining the beauty of our roads. He walks a four-mile loop every week or two, collecting trash along East Main Street. Community members who nominated him highlighted numerous instances where Tom saw a mess along the road, and decided to take care of it himself.  They also noted his generosity in helping whenever he finds an opportunity, noting he “delights in the opportunity to help someone out secretly.” Tom consistently embodies the spirit of good citizenship and community pride and humbly credits his family for supporting and enabling his efforts.

In addition to being honored at the reception, Mr. DeMatties will receive a specially designed slate clock, custom-made and donated by Sheldon Slate of Middle Granville. As the official Citizen of the Year, he will also participate in the Tree Tapping Ceremony at Maplefest in March and serve as the Grand Marshal in the Fourth of July Parade. The public is invited to attend the reception to personally thank Tom for his dedication.