Dismas of Vermont Celebrates 40 Years of Supportive Housing

Dismas of Vermont, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing transitional housing and community-based support for people reentering society after incarceration and trauma, has marked its 40th anniversary with a celebration of its impact. Since opening its first house on Buell Street in Burlington in 1986, the organization has grown to five family-style homes and a growing number of step-down apartments in Burlington, Hartford, Winooski, and Rutland, including the only program of its kind dedicated to women. These homes provide a safe place where residents share meals, responsibilities, and the work of starting over, alongside staff and hundreds of community volunteers.

Over the past four decades, Dismas has provided 337,719 days of supportive housing to 2,350 people, most of whom are Vermonters returning home after incarceration. The organization has played a crucial role in helping individuals rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society. Over the years, Dismas has also become a cornerstone of the community, fostering a sense of hope and support for those who have faced significant challenges.

Since its inception, Dismas of Vermont has been guided by the vision of Rita Whalen McCaffrey, who founded the organization with a simple yet transformative idea: people leaving incarceration are more likely to succeed with a supportive community than when they face the transition alone. In her 80s, Rita is still closely involved with Dismas, serving as an inspiration for the organization's mission and its staff and volunteers.

Volunteers have been central to the work of Dismas of Vermont, playing a critical role in fostering social inclusion for a community that is often stigmatized and excluded. Over the years, they have donated more than 285,000 hours toward resident success. The Volunteer Cooks Program has prepared, served, and shared more than 29,000 meals, further strengthening the bonds between Dismas and its community.

Joshua Jewett, a Rutland Dismas House alumnus, now works as a Certified Peer Support Provider and sits on the Dismas Board of Directors. He credits Dismas with being the first place where he felt genuinely seen and valued after years of struggle.

The Volunteer Cooks Program at Dismas has prepared, served, and shared more than 29,000 meals, playing a critical role in fostering social inclusion for a community that is often stigmatized and excluded. With a mission of reconciliation, Dismas volunteers have been instrumental in creating a safe and caring community for those in need.

Jim Curran has served as the executive director since 2020.

Dismas of Vermont aims to help residents build stability, strengthen relationships, and contribute positively to their communities. The Dismas House of Nashville, TN, the country's first Dismas House, inspired and supported the founding of Dismas of Vermont. To donate, volunteer, or learn more, visit dismasofvt.org.

Dismas of Vermont has played a vital role in providing supportive housing and fostering community for individuals reentering society after incarceration. Over the past four decades, the organization has provided 337,719 days of supportive housing to 2,350 people, most of whom are Vermonters returning home after incarceration. Volunteers have donated more than 285,000 hours toward resident success, and the Volunteer Cooks Program has prepared, served, and shared more than 29,000 meals. The organization's executive director, Jim Curran, has continued to lead the organization in meeting people's growing needs and creating opportunity where there seems to be none.