VIBE is the pinnacle of "doing the work". I have never experienced people in Equity work who were more likely to lean into discomfort, walk with people, and share joy than this team. I have grown as a leader, RJ Practitioner, supervisor, and person because of the work VIBE has done. I cannot thank them enough for making me feel seen as a Queer Woman of Color in leadership. My gratitude is immense and there is still so much work to do.

My experience with VIBE Consulting and the EDJIE project has been transformative. The most meaningful aspect was learning how to approach discussions on racism with thoughtfulness and curiosity, rather than reacting emotionally. This shift has not only improved my interactions with others but has also left me feeling more hopeful and empowered in difficult conversations.

VIBE supported my growth as a DEI practitioner by fostering deep self-reflection and encouraging me to explore my social identity in relation to privilege and marginalization. They provided the tools and support needed to navigate anti-racism work, helping me acknowledge biases, learn from mistakes, and focus on centering those harmed by my actions. I now share my vulnerabilities more openly, hoping to inspire others to think critically about their biases and work towards unlearning harmful assumptions.

Additionally, VIBE’s thorough investment in developing the DEI training, along with their streamlined data collection systems and training, made the process efficient and effective. Their commitment to detail and ease of implementation was evident throughout the project. The VIBE team's guidance has been invaluable in helping me develop my skills, build confidence as a facilitator, and stay committed to equity and inclusion.

This project united the restorative justice centers across Vermont, transforming our individual efforts into a connected, powerful community focused on advancing DEI initiatives. Through this collaboration, I’ve built lasting connections and am now working on exciting projects with others who share this passion. Plus, working with Kendra, Bitsy, and the other VIBE partners has been a blast. Their approach has not only enhanced my professional capabilities but also strengthened my personal resolve to continue striving for liberation and inclusivity for all.

In the years I worked with Kendra, I was so impressed with her integrity, commitment, responsiveness, and creativity. She has big and bold dreams of a just world, and she brilliantly invites people together to work together and accomplish hard things in new ways. A wealth of experience has given her insight and wisdom in fostering effective change strategies. Kendra is able to work with a broad array of stakeholders and community members, communicating with both candor and empathy. And her commitment to transformative change is unflagging. If you are looking for a responsive and dedicated partner in charting and meeting your goals for inclusion and equity, look no further!

It was a truly transformative experience! Kendra and the VIBE team set to center the experiences of VT's communities most impacted by oppression. This is easy to say but hard to do, especially considering the systemic issues we are against. Kendra always reminded us of this goal and always did so lovingly. Kendra taught us how to navigate discomfort, they modeled this in our work together. Ultimately, I can say this journey was truly meaningful and set me on my path to liberation while embracing uncertainty and finding the strength to assert my unique contributions to anti-racism work!

VIBE's focus on process, content, shared accountability, and equity in all its forms came shining through their work in our state. They were incredibly communicative, organized, responsive and detailed in all aspects of their work, and helped move the needle for Vermont restorative justice centers for our work on equity and inclusion.

I have had an overall positive experience with the crew from VIBE. It is clear how dedicated and passionate their team is regarding anti-racist and equity work. With VIBE helping to steer the ship, I feel as though the EDJIE cohort was able to find a solid rhythm with collaborating on shared goals at the local and state level. I learned valuable insight from the VIBE team and my colleagues across the state. This project brought everyone together for a shared purpose and I'm so grateful for that! I'm also thankful that this project has challenged us to find more pathways for local RJ, Diversion, and related programs to embed this work into their practices. Although my role is different as a volunteer, I still found this project incredibly valuable to strengthening efforts around equity and inclusion. This work can be quite challenging and uncomfortable at times, but that's all part of it. Having a group of amazing people supporting each other along the way was definitely one of the most meaningful parts of this journey.

Kendra helped me create a multi-racial, cross gender space that allowed for an honest and vulnerable interchange across difference.