Values and Vision

Values

People

We respect the inherent worth and dignity of all people and pursue equity, inclusion, and belonging in our workplace, our housing, and our programs and services. Because we care about the people of Central Vermont and the people who move Downstreet’s mission forward, we are committed to excellence and quality in everything we do.

 

Home

A safe, affordable home is a basic human right essential to everyone’s health and well-being regardless of their personal circumstances or service requirements. We ensure equitable access to many kinds of permanently affordable homes where the full diversity of Central Vermont communities is celebrated and where people can thrive.

 

Community

We strive to be a good neighbor by encouraging a sense of belonging for all, fostering collaborations that reinforce community vitality, participating in community engagement and community improvement efforts, and prioritizing responsible operations. We balance high standards for integrity and accountability with compassion and acceptance to encourage collaborative alliances and fruitful working relationships among diverse people.

Vermont

We love Vermont and we welcome to Central Vermont all those who seek a home here. Through environmentally sustainable practices, the use of smart growth principles, and the advancement of environmental justice, our work contributes to healthy and resilient communities that preserve the beauty and charm that our Green Mountain State embodies.

Our Commitment to Racial Justice & Equity

We have long considered the work we do at Downstreet to be social justice work, with the view that housing is an ideal platform for the delivery of services that touch all areas of a person’s life. We believe in human dignity and equity for all, and those beliefs guide our work every day. As such, we recognize that we have an important role to play in helping to dismantle racism and promote equity, diversity, and inclusion for all through education, understanding, and action within our organization and throughout the communities we serve. We welcome this opportunity and embrace the challenges and benefits it presents. Learn about our Race, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (REDI) Awareness & Action Initiative.