When the chill of a Vermont winter sets in, many families face a tough choice: heat or other essentials. But one family’s mission is helping change that—one log at a time. Wood4Good, a nonprofit based in Jericho, Vermont, is doing more than splitting firewood. With the simple motto “Warming Hearts, Warming Homes,” they’re delivering both heat and hope to families who need it most.
How Wood4Good Got Its Start
Founded by Eric Axelrod and his two sons, Wood4Good has evolved from a backyard effort into a full-blown community movement, earning praise and attention from major news outlets across Vermont and beyond.
That heartwarming mission recently caught the attention of the national TODAY Show, which followed the Axelrods as they chopped, stacked, and delivered wood to Vermonters in need. The story highlighted how one family’s passion sparked a ripple effect of kindness and resilience.
“If people work together to help other people” Eric told Craig Melvin, “I think it would help heal some of the division.”
But the Axelrods aren’t doing it alone.
Community Partners Help Wood4Good Support Vermonters
Thanks to a growing group of dedicated volunteers, the Wood4Good team continues to expand its reach. Among the many helping hands are employees from EastRise Credit Union, who have rolled up their sleeves to split, haul, and deliver firewood. Their team spirit has become a cornerstone of the nonprofit’s operations.
The Vermont State Police has also joined the effort, showing up not just in uniform but in work boots. Officers have been spotted stacking wood and supporting deliveries, proving that community service goes beyond policing—it’s about care and connection.
Students and staff from Mount Mansfield Union High School have become regular volunteers as well, with teens stepping up to give their time, energy, and muscles to help others. It’s a powerful lesson in civic responsibility and empathy, and one that’s warming more than just homes.
“When I lay down in my bed at night and I’m thinking about what I did in the day, I know that I didn’t waste my day.” Logan Axelrod told Seven Days.
Local and regional media continue to take notice. VTDigger featured Wood4Good in their 2024 end-of-year not-for-profit profile series. WCAX recently covered the nonprofit’s expansion into Franklin County, while CBS Boston spotlighted the growing trend of “wood pantries” across New England—with Wood4Good leading the charge.
The organization’s work has also been recognized nationally, including a listing as a 2023–2024 grantee by the Alliance for Green Heat, helping fund their continued growth and outreach.
Join us at Wood4Good
From students to state troopers, from credit union staff to national news anchors, the support for Wood4Good proves that kindness can catch fire—and spread fast.
Learn more or get involved at wood4good.org. Because everyone deserves a warm home—and a warm heart.