Since 1986, Dismas of Vermont has provided shelter and support to people making the difficult transition from incarceration and trauma. Join us in our mission of reconciliation at one of our five houses across Vermont.
Together, and with your help, we can create a more just, safe, and productive Vermont.
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I stay sober because I want to be someone my past self would be proud of. Someone my future self can trust. I want to be present for the people who never gave up on me, even when I gave up on myself. I want to show others that recovery is not just possible, it's worth every scar, every tear, and every hard-fought step forward.
Joyce’s commitment is to the residents, but the value of the connection is a two-way street. In appropriate conversations, she freely shares that she has major depressive disorder and has been living in recovery since the late 80s.
“More than once, I’ve felt myself going downhill, which usually means hospitalization, and so I’ve volunteered to show up for dinner at Dismas. Here I feel a sense of community, know what is expected, am always welcomed, and my absence is noticed. In many ways, Dismas is my safety net.”
Employers like the Allards recognize that giving someone a fair opportunity provides stability and financial independence, reduces the risk of recidivism, and supports social justice and equity. Stephanie encourages other employers to do the same, noting that second starts change lives and strengthen businesses and communities.
Dismas can be described as a “family-like” community, with structured and supportive daily rhythms across our five transitional homes where people returning to our community from incarceration and trauma live together. support each other, and share weekday dinners with staff and volunteer cooks from the broader community.
Dismas cultivates a spirit of openness and consensus decision-making among all members of the Dismas community, sometimes including residential students and international volunteers.
Learn More About the Houses
Each house hosts ongoing events where you can get involved.
Join a Local Council meeting to learn more about the happenings at a specific house, see if a house is hosting a Speaker Series, or celebrate residents and volunteers with us at an Annual Celebration.
Check out the Dismas calendar to learn more.
View Events
Our five houses could not exist without volunteers.
Founded and sustained by a dedicated and enthusiastic group of individuals committed to providing a positive alternative living situation for people transitioning from incarceration and trauma, Dismas continues to benefit from the time and talents of hundreds of volunteers each year.
See how you can make a difference.
Volunteer
