James is a program participant working with Pathways Vermont’s Department of Corrections (DOC) program. Born in New Hampshire, he moved to southern Vermont with his mother at the age of two. He describes himself as loving, caring, and deeply committed to helping others in any way he can. One of his greatest passions is Bible study, and he dreams of one day teaching and preaching the Bible.
Reflecting on his experience working with Pathways Vermont, James shared, “I have received so much support from so many people at Pathways. Jes especially has been instrumental in getting me into this apartment—she helped with applications to so many places I wouldn’t have been able to do on my own. I also see Jonathon and Corbin weekly just to check up on me, and it’s so helpful and supportive.” James emphasized, “Pathways has been so supportive. I had the desire to change, and that is really the key. They are supporting and encouraging me to bridge the gap between being incarcerated and now being out.”
James successfully graduated from the Department of Corrections program after one year and moved into his permanent housing in July. James expressed, “I like this apartment because it is mine. It’s a sense of accomplishment and pride to say this is my apartment, I’m paying the rent, and I’m not using anyone’s pocketbook—I’m using the money I’m making to live here. That’s what makes this apartment so special to me.”
Now settled in stable, permanent housing, James is looking forward to newfound freedoms. “I’m looking forward to finally settling in and feeling stability. I want to be able to say, ‘Okay, I got this now.’ I’m really looking forward to growing in this apartment.”
James speaks highly of Pathways Vermont and his experience working with us. “Pathways helps people with specific challenges and those who have been incarcerated acquire housing, but they don’t just do housing—they provide a support system that other organizations don’t. Pathways goes four or five steps beyond in the support they offer. Whether that’s stopping by once a week for a five- to ten-minute conversation or giving me rides to and from work, they actually help you become self-sustaining and reintegrate into the community again.”
