Where learning & living come together
At Mercy Connections, every person, regardless of life circumstances, experiences dignity, compassion, and the opportunity to pursue personal aspirations within a supportive community. Our programs change lives.
Your service matters
Volunteers are critical pieces of Mercy Connections, interwoven into people's lives and success stories, making our whole community a better place. We can’t do this work without you.
There's power in numbers
Primarily funded by donors and private foundations, your investment in Mercy Connections makes a meaningful difference right here in Vermont. Please help support this mission.
Deep community impact
An educational and social justice organization, Mercy Connections empowers people to make significant life changes. It is a place to learn, grow, heal, and build community. Everyone—participants, volunteers, donors, and sponsors, alike—is a critical piece of our symbiotic mix. When all the pieces come together, we can all be the best we can be.
14 businesses launched
This year alone, 14 new businesses launched or expanded, with 7 more preparing to open next year.
45 families fed
On average, 45 families received healthy & fresh food weekly, as well as other essentials.
3,931 hours given
Over 140 volunteers contributed nearly 4,000 volunteer hours.
100 programs delivered
Last year, despite the pandemic, we delivered a record number of programs.
100% gained connection
Every one of our program participants reported gaining social capital & a sense of belonging.
98% achieved goals
Participants in literacy & citizenship programs met their academic goals.
The whole is greater than the sum of its parts
At Mercy Connections, we bring people together to nurture connections and build networks which offer participants, volunteers, and other partners a rewarding opportunity for personal growth.
STORY
Our Stories
Read stories from our participants that describe the impact of Mercy Connections.
Becoming a Leader
Tricia
"I cannot wait to start helping others like they have helped me. Mercy Connections has been such a positive support system in my life and to my sobriety."
Opening doors for entrepreneurs
Marie
"Mercy Connections, to me, was an open door to the Burlington and Vermont community. I want to be an inspiration to those who face difficulties in life. No matter what YOU are going through, you can use your story to inspire others."
I became my own best advocate through Mercy Connections
Maribeth
"I’ve been going to Mercy Connections for three years, and there I have a loving supporting community. There’s the family you are born into and the family you make."
New U.S. citizen & graduate
Linda
"Mercy Connections has given a lot of refugees and immigrants the opportunity to pursue their dreams in life."