50 Years at Dismas House

A Legacy of Changemakers:
1974 — 2024

Since its inception in 1974, Dismas House has been a cornerstone of compassion and renewal, transforming lives through second chances. As we mark our 50th anniversary, we reflect on five decades of unwavering commitment to empowering individuals and building a supportive community.

A 50-Year Legacy

Jack Hickey

Dismas House was founded in 1974 by Father Jack Hickey, a Vanderbilt University chaplain. Father Hickey founded the organization alongside the Vanderbilt Prison Project after observing the lack of services and housing available to returning citizens. A true visionary, he purchased an 8-bed house on Music Row and, together with a group of Vanderbilt University students and returning citizens, renovated the home.

For 46 years, Dismas House provided services to returning citizens on Music Row, before relocating in 2020. Since 1974, Father Hickey’s vision has positively impacted countless lives and created ripple effects far beyond the Middle Tennessee community.

Father Jack Hickey moves from Albany, NY to Nashville to accept position as Vanderbilt University Chaplain

Father Jack opens Dismas House

Father Jack, founder of Dismas House, passes away at age 51 from stomach cancer

New 72 bed Dismas House campus announced

Nonprofit Dismas Inc. sells original Dismas House property at 1513 16th Ave. S for $1.85 million

Dismas House celebrates its 50th anniversary

History Come to Life

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News and Editorials

Father Jack Hickey
Father Jack with group from the Nashville Prison Project
Original Dismas House
Jack Hickey
Father Jack Hickey
Community get togethers at the original Dismas House
First Dismas House
Original Dismas House
Close up of Father Jack with group from the Nashville Prison Project
Original Dismas House Signage
Joe Little wedding with Father Jack as officiant
Father Jack Hickey
Father Jack with Jim Glover in 1976
In front of the original house in 2012
Father Jack Hickey – 1974 source: the Tennessee
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Thanksgiving Dinner at the original Dismas House, 2012
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Community Dinners at the original Dismas House
Father Jack (pictured right) with residents and Vanderbilt students in 1974 shortly after opening Dismas House. Source: The Tennessean
Jack Hickey
First Dismas House

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Dismas House’s impact is made possible by your generosity. Thank you for helping us restore lives and communities through holistic reentry services for returning citizens.

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Do you have any special memories, photos, or moments that you would like to share? Feel free to use the contact form below! Or reach out to Sarah Sommer at ssommer@dismas.org

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