Another Chance. A Fresh Start.

Dismas isn't just a home; it is a community, not just of the residents who live here but also of the staff and volunteers who come every day. Today, after one year of sobriety, I feel like a completely different person. I can proudly say that I am a hard worker, I have integrity, and I care not only about others but also about myself. I am beyond grateful to have been given the chance to reside at Dismas.

Today, I am a proud father of five wonderful children—three boys and two girls. My role as a father and a contributing community member has given me the motivation to continue striving for a better future. I am currently a student at the Community College of Vermont (CCV), on the brink of graduating with an associate degree in Behavioral Science. I have maintained high honors throughout my academic journey, receiving copious amounts of scholarships and grants to help me pursue my goals. This academic achievement is a testament to my resilience and commitment to personal growth.

Currently, I am fulfilling my internship, a degree requirement, at the Rutland Dismas House. This valuable opportunity will enhance my professional field experience and support the continuation of my education. My educational and career goal is to assist individuals suffering from active addiction by providing them with hope and guidance on their path to recovery from substance abuse.

The Rutland Dismas House served as the catalyst for my transformation, providing a solid foundation for my recovery through invaluable community connections. The journey from active addiction to becoming a responsible father, accountable community member, and soon-to-be graduate has been both challenging and immensely rewarding. I hope my story inspires others to believe in the power of recovery and the significance of community support.

When I was at Buell Street, Dismas residents were asked by the Board of Directors, what are your barriers to moving out of the houses? We said we couldn’t find affordable housing. When a landlord has ten applications for a unit, they generally are going to take someone with a clean record. A program like step-down housing helps people build rental history, puts some distance between them and their charges, and gives them time to maybe even expunge or seal their charges.”

My dad is really proud of me and he's really grateful to Dismas. He helped me move in, he’s the man and I love him. The other day he commented on how incredibly lucky I am to have this...something I’m well aware of. I’m 32 and I've never had my own place before, I've always just rented rooms. It is nice to have my own spot to call home and it feels good to be trusted with this opportunity, to be trustworthy again. People have faith in me that I’ll do the right things, and I intend to keep my word, and I have trust that my community will help me if I need it.”