Pioneering a Plant-centered Educational and Wellness Institute

(PEWI) in Southern Vermont

In a world increasingly focused on health, sustainability, and mindful living, PEWI has set out to make a lasting impact by founding a groundbreaking educational and wellness institute dedicated to veganism in Southern Vermont. With a deep commitment to promoting plant-based living, sustainable practices, and overall wellness, PEWI as created a space where individuals can learn, grow, and thrive in a supportive and educational environment.

The Birth of a Vision

Lauren Stevens’ journey toward founding the Plant-centered Educational and Wellness Institute (PEWI) in Southern Vermont started with a deep passion for health, environmental sustainability, and animal welfare. Having been a longtime Lauren advocate for veganism, Lauren saw a gap in accessible, educational resources that could help individuals not only adopt a plant-based diet but fully embrace a lifestyle that aligns with vegan principles—covering nutrition, mental wellness, sustainability, and compassionate living.

Having lived in Hingham for many years,  and her family often vacationed in Vermont, where they were drawn to the state’s stunning natural beauty and its forward-thinking, eco-conscious community. It was during one of these trips that Lauren envisioned creating a place in Southern Vermont where people could learn about veganism in an immersive, hands-on environment. This vision soon took shape, and after years of careful planning, networking, and securing funding, the Plant-centered Educational and Wellness Institute was born.

The Institute’s Core Values and Mission

The mission of the Plant-centered Educational and Wellness Institute is simple yet profound: to inspire, educate, and empower individuals to embrace a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle through plant-based living. The institute offers a comprehensive range of programs that cover everything from vegan nutrition and meal preparation to mindfulness practices and environmental advocacy.

The institute's core values include:

• Health & Wellness: Promoting the mental and physical well-being of individuals through plant-based diets and holistic wellness practices.
• Sustainability: Encouraging eco-conscious living by teaching the environmental benefits of a plant-based, eco-conscious lifestyle.
• Compassionate Living: Educating on the ethical considerations of veganism, focusing on animal rights and the importance of making compassionate choices.
• Community: Building a supportive, inclusive community of individuals who share similar values and are committed to improving their lives and the world around them.

Programs and Initiatives

At the heart of the Plant-centered Educational and Wellness Institute are its diverse programs, designed to cater to a wide range of individuals—from newcomers to seasoned plant-centered practitioners seeking further education or wellness practices. These programs are available both in-person and online, ensuring that the institute’s message can reach a broader audience.

• Culinary Arts: The institute’s culinary classes teach individuals how to prepare delicious, nutritious, and satisfying plant-based meals. These hands-on classes are led by expert chefs and nutritionists, offering participants practical skills to utilize to create delicious meals at home.
• Wellness Workshops: These workshops cover topics like yoga, meditation, stress management, and mindfulness practices, all designed to complement a plant-centered lifestyle and promote mental well-being. Participants learn how to integrate wellness practices into their daily lives to maintain a balanced, peaceful mindset.
• Sustainability and Environmental Advocacy: Through courses and guest speakers, the institute educates the community about the environmental impact of food choices and how adopting a plant-centered lifestyle can reduce one’s ecological footprint. The programs delve into issues like deforestation, water usage, and climate change and explore how plant-based diets contribute to a more sustainable planet.
• Youth and Family Programs: Understanding the importance of educating younger generations, Lauren’s institute also offers programs tailored to families and children. These sessions teach the basics of plant-based living in a fun, engaging way, ensuring that future generations are equipped with the knowledge to make compassionate and health-conscious choices.

Creating a Welcoming Community

One of the unique aspects of the Plant-centered Educational and Wellness Institute is the emphasis on community. Lauren believes that learning is most effective in a supportive, nurturing environment where individuals can share experiences and build connections. The institute fosters a sense of belonging and encourages people from all walks of life to come together, regardless of their experience with plant-centered living.

The institute regularly hosts events such as farm-to-table dinners, cooking competitions, potluck meals and wellness retreats that bring people together to celebrate plant-centered living. Additionally, PEWI offers membership programs that allow individuals to access exclusive content, participate in ongoing workshops, and connect with like-minded people who share their passion for wellness and sustainability.

Lauren’s Personal Commitment and Impact

For Lauren Stevens, the founding of the Plant-centered Educational and Wellness Institute is more than just a business venture—it is a life’s calling. Her personal journey into a plant-focused diet has been deeply transformative, leading her to pursue a path that combines her love for teaching, wellness, and environmental activism.

Her commitment to creating positive change extends beyond the classroom and workshop setting. Lauren has partnered with local farms, sustainable businesses, and animal sanctuaries to promote ethical sourcing, fair trade practices, and sustainable farming methods. She believes in the power of collaboration and works tirelessly to ensure that the institute is not only an educational hub but a force for good in the community.

A Bright Future Ahead

With its innovative approach to education, wellness, and sustainable living, the Plant-centered Educational and Wellness Institute is quickly becoming a leading destination for those seeking to live a healthier, more compassionate life. In the coming years, Lauren hopes to expand the institute’s offerings, build more partnerships within the plant-centered, animal welfare and wellness communities, and continue to inspire individuals to make positive changes that benefit their health, the environment, and the world around them.

Through dedication, passion, and vision, PEWI is helping to create a brighter, more sustainable future—one where plant-centered living and holistic wellness are accessible to all. The Plant-centered Educational and Wellness Institute in Southern Vermont is not just a place to learn; it’s a movement that is empowering individuals to embrace a lifestyle of health, compassion, and sustainability for years to come.