Hartford
Typically, between one and three volunteers prepare dinner on a given weeknight, said Debbie Diegoli, assistant house director. They cook at home or onsite and join residents and staff members for the meal, which is served at 6 p.m.
The dinners are “the heart” of Dismas House, Diegoli said. “It really tells the people who live here that they mean something, when someone takes the time to cook for them and sit around and share a meal.”
While a number of groups volunteer regularly on certain nights, Fridays have been tougher to fill, Diegoli said. Regular monthly slots are available, and help is also needed on specific evenings, including Sept. 1, 2, 9, 23 and 30.
Volunteers generally prepare dinner for six to 12 residents and staff members. A grill is available for those who like to cook outside, and meals requiring little or no cooking are also welcome.
Those have included make-your-own grinders, a taco bar, meat and cheese platters, and salads, Diegoli said. “People have also brought meals cooked ahead in Crock-Pots or the like.”
In most cases volunteers provide the food, but some come and use what’s on hand, she said. Hartford Dismas House receives food from Willing Hands, and the Upper Valley Haven will donate food for people to use if they don’t have the means to buy it themselves.
Volunteers also help Hartford Dismas House with outreach and fundraising and serve on some committees and on the board, which currently has openings. For more information, contact Diegoli at debbie@dismasofvermont.org, or 802-698-8661.
— Aimee Caruso