Vermont Refugees and Immigrants Services Inc
Vermont Refugees and Immigrants Services Inc (VRIS) assists refugees, low-income, and religious minorities in establishing a home in Chittenden County Vermont by providing educational, cultural, and leadership development opportunities through community organizing efforts to address systemic racism and to embrace diversity within the fabric of cultural institutions by promoting change, equity, and peace.
Our Mission
The Vermont Refugees and Immigrants Services (VRIS) was first established in September 2021 to facilitate the resettlement and integration of the refugee and immigrants communities in Chittenden County, Vermont. VRIS provides educational, cultural, and life-skill training programs to promote self-sufficiency within and among the individuals and families comprising all refugees, immigrants, low-income families, and individuals in need of service. VRIS has focused on education as a means of “bridging the gap” for refugees and provides a full range of workshops and classes to meet their needs.
Vermont Refugees and Immigrant’s express goal is to empower and support the Refugees and Immigrants community members to achieve economic and social independence and self-sufficiency. VRIS focuses on equal access to and opportunity for advancement and personal achievement. VRIS is committed to breaking down the barriers created by race, class, cultural background, religion, and sex. In addition, the Association is focused on addressing and helping Refugees and Immigrants overcome the patterns associated with a mindset of generational subjugation.