Board of Directors

It's a pleasure to serve as a board member for Mercy Connections, an organization that reflects the values of kindness, resilience, and community that define our state. Mercy Connections’ work to empower individuals strengthens the fabric of our local communities and I’m honored to contribute to its mission, uplifting lives and fostering belonging here in Vermont.

Mercy Connections  provides a space for participants to pursue new beginnings through many program offerings. The organization’s positive impact on not only the people directly involved with Mercy, but also the community as a whole, is why I am so proud to support Mercy Connections.

Community has always been important to me, and I believe that Mercy Connections embodies the very best of what can happen when people are given support, encouragement, and opportunity. But it is not only the organization’s mission that resonates with me; it is also how genuinely Mercy Connections shows up for the people it serves and how deeply it cares about each individual life it touches. There is something truly special and inspiring about the deep connections that are formed here and the positive change that ensues. Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of this work.

I initially got connected to Mercy Connections as an English language tutor for two years. I loved the experience and the student I worked with as well as the opportunity to learn more about the organization and its history. The invitation to serve on the board of such an important local organization was an easy decision. I love the opportunity we have to support, advocate for, and enable efforts that ultimately foster wellness and success of our community members while also honoring human dignity.

Since becoming a volunteer mentor in 2023, I have experienced firsthand the compassionate community fostered through the Justice, Mentoring, and Reentry Program. Each time I walk through the doors, the building is alive with energy and possibility—new businesses are taking shape, authors are publishing their work, individuals are pursuing personal growth through education, mentors and participants are building meaningful relationships, English language learners are gaining confidence, and hope is evident everywhere. I look forward to learning, contributing, and supporting this remarkable organization as it continues to empower individuals and strengthen our community.

I support Mercy Connections because the diverse program offerings provide participants the tools to reach their potential. The combination of mentoring and education with the Women’s Small Business program creates jobs and economic activity along with making a positive difference in the lives of participants.

I am honored to join the board of Mercy Connections, an organization deeply committed to creating pathways to independence through education. What inspires me most is their unwavering dedication to meeting each person where they are and walking alongside them as they build confidence, skills, and community. Mercy Connections opens both doors and hearts to brighter futures.

The first time I walked through the doors at Mercy Connections, I was awed by the warmth and welcoming community. It was immediately clear that this is a place where people are met with compassion, respect, and genuine belief in their potential. It is my hope that serving on the board will allow me to play a small part in supporting this important work, and it is an honor to stand alongside the incredible staff, volunteers, and participants who bring the organization's mission to life every day.

Everyone deserves a chance at finding their self-worth in order to live their best life. With a mission to assist those who are challenged financially, emotionally, and socially, Mercy Connections offers folks the chance to become more self-sufficient and to change their lives for the better.

In my decade-long involvement with Mercy Connections as a volunteer, staff member, and now a board member, I have experienced first-hand the incredible impact that Mercy Connections has on its program participants. The 'radical hospitality' that I was introduced to early on continues to be a cornerstone of this unique organization. It has been a joy to see so many folks find community, build skills, take on new challenges, grow, and succeed.

Mercy Connections is a gift to our community. It provides meaningful opportunities for people that support a person’s journey to true and enduring self-actualization. The Staff and Participants are gifts to one another. It is an honor to be able to contribute to the wellbeing of individuals that enhances and strengthens the future of our communities.

Not only does the Small Business Program give participants the opportunity and tools they need to start a business, but more importantly women gain the self confidence, connections and support to make economic stability a reality.

Mercy Connections is a very welcoming and accepting place for all individuals who find them. Their programs are designed to acknowledge each person, and help them identify their individual goals and the skills required for them to attain those goals. The education provided is delivered in a caring manner which helps to attain a high success rate. The sustained commitment of the team to support individual participants' growth is really something special to see.

I believe deeply in the power of opportunity — that with the right support, every person can grow and build a better life, regardless of where they started or where they came from. As an immigrant to this country myself, I know firsthand the challenges and uncertainties that come with building a new life, and I am committed to giving back to the local immigrant community here in Vermont. Mercy Connections' mission resonates with me personally, and I am honored to help advance the meaningful work they do every day.

Mercy Connections is a place where hope is restored and dreams become visions. I am a proud graduate of the Women's Small Business Program. Serving as a Board member is a privilege to celebrate the impact that this organization is making in the community.

This organization is focused on community, providing stability to people when they may need it most. The tools and education provided will continue to support participants on their journey to self-reliance. I am humbled to be part of such a powerful mission for today’s generations and the many generations to come.

I’m honored to be part of the Mercy Connections family. I’ve been a happy supporter of the organization because I’ve seen the incredible work they are able to do, and am excited to serve the organization and its incredible participants. Mercy Connections’ philosophy of radical hospitality and intense connectedness fosters skills, builds leaders and makes me hopeful for our shared future.