Ashley Kitchell was recently named Executive Director of Liberty House, the Catholic Charities NH program that helps New Hampshire veterans reclaim their lives after homelessness, post-traumatic stress, substance use, and other major challenges, through transitional housing and a community pantry.

The Manchester native brings nearly a decade of service to the Liberty House team, along with a deep passion for supporting those who have served. We sat down with Ashley to learn more about her journey and her unique vision for the program’s future.

What first brought you to Liberty House?

I was drawn to the mission. I had heard incredible things about Liberty House while working at another nonprofit serving veterans, and when a Case Manager role opened up, I jumped at the chance – and I’ve never looked back!

What personally connects you to the veteran community?

I have family members who were veterans, so I’ve always appreciated their sacrifice and service. I also grew up right down the street from the VA Hospital in Manchester and used to ride my bike past it all the time. It’s amazing to see how life comes full circle – and how I now get to help those individuals I looked up to as a kid.

What excites you most about stepping into this new role?

Getting out into the community and further raising awareness of our program. While Liberty House has a strong reputation, there are a lot of people who may not know about us or understand the depth and impact of our work. I’m eager to create stronger connections, specifically within the veteran, recovery and homelessness communities, to show that we’re here, we care deeply, and we’re doing the hard work for all the right reasons.

What are you most proud of since you started here?

Helping to develop the Four-Step model that guides our residents back to stability and independence. Now, each resident can more clearly focus on meaningful goals as they progress through their recovery, achieving mental and physical wellness, securing meaningful employment and ultimately transitioning to independence. It’s a model that has been incredibly successful – just look at the last year alone. 85% of residents obtained their birth certificates and social security cards, 78% secured driver’s licenses, 73% gained meaningful employment, and 90% opened a bank account. These milestones are truly life-changing.

What sets Liberty House apart from other veteran programs?

We don’t just provide services – we walk alongside each veteran every step of the way, through their darkest days and their biggest wins. We hold our veterans accountable, but we never let them feel alone. That balance is what truly sets us apart – and is why so many veterans find lasting success here.

What is one thing that people may not know about Liberty House?

Our mission and impact transcend New Hampshire. While we are based in Manchester, our residents and community veterans come from across the state – and sometimes even beyond.

What specific initiatives or changes do you envision implementing?

I’m eager to build a stronger relationship with the city and the state. One of my goals is to find better long-term housing solutions for our veterans who graduate the program, knowing that access to affordable housing is one of the biggest challenges they face today. We also need to look at the gaps in support, such as providing more resources for female veterans. There’s a real opportunity to grow our impact in that area.

What inspires you most about Liberty House and its mission?

The people. Our staff is incredible and dedicated to improving lives in powerful ways. Our veterans are some of the most resilient and strongest people I’ve met. To be able to witness their transformations – from lives filled with so many hardships to truly thriving again – is incredibly inspiring. It’s powerful to be part of these transformations every day.

You’ve added an aftercare program to provide extended support for residents after they move out. Why is that so important?

Our veterans’ journeys don’t end when they leave our transitional program. They still require a level of long-term support as they reacclimate to living independently. Our aftercare program provides that ongoing connection, helping them navigate challenges like employment, housing, and mental health. Even before formally launching the program, we’ve seen that veterans who stay connected to us tend to be more successful in the long run.

How can donors and the community best support Liberty House right now?

By getting involved, it’s an easy and powerful way to give back to veterans who have done so much for us! Whether it’s through financial support or volunteering, you can be part of something bigger – a community that truly looks out for and stands up for veterans. The more people we have in our corner, the more impact and lives we can transform. I encourage anyone who wants to get involved to contact me or take a tour – we’d love to have you!

What do you like to do outside of work?

As some of you may know, I helped train our facility therapy dog, Ezra, who also lives with me. On weekends or in the evening, he loves to go on long walks. He’s a big swimmer, so you can find us exploring the trails or hitting the beach to get a little sun and water action. I also love being with my family, especially my nieces and nephews.