CANTON – The Board of Directors of Renewal House for Victims of Family Violence has appointed Viviana “Vivian” Wilmot as the agency’s new Executive Director, replacing long-time executive director Ilene Burke who recently passed away.

Wilmot’s appointment is effective from the Board’s meeting on July 22.

Wilmot joined Renewal House in 2019 as a Child and Youth Advocate and quickly transitioned into the role of Sexual Assault Case Manager. Since October 2023, she has served as the agency’s Program Director. Prior to joining the agency, Wilmot lived in Texas, where she held various management positions in private industry and later worked as a high school teacher. She holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance. In 2018, she and her family relocated to the Hammond area. Alongside her work with the agency, Wilmot actively serves her community as the Vice President of the Hammond Central School District’s School Board.

As Executive Director, Wilmot will oversee the organization’s operations, strategic planning, and community outreach efforts. She will collaborate closely with the board, staff, and community partners to ensure the continued success and growth of Renewal House. 

The majority of Renewal House’s funding comes from the NYS Office of Victim Services, NYS Office of Children and Family Services, NYS Department of Criminal Justice Services, NYS Coalition Against Sexual Assault, NYS Office for Prevention of Domestic Violence, St. Lawrence County Department of Social Services, and the United Way of Northern New York.

Wilmot steps into the role following the unexpected passing of Burke who dedicated nearly thirty years to Renewal House, most of which she spent leading the agency. She was a well-known and respected leader in the domestic violence and sexual assault field, both in St. Lawrence County and throughout New York State.

Board President Al Mulkin remarked that Burke was instrumental in transforming Renewal House from a small volunteer non-profit into the modern, multi-million-dollar agency it is today, serving over a thousand victims of family violence annually.

The Board expressed their gratitude for Wilmot's leadership during this challenging transition period. The board also extended a special thank you to the staff members who, despite their grief, continued to provide excellent and uninterrupted service to the agency's clients.

Renewal House offers the following services to families in St. Lawrence County: 24-hour crisis counseling for domestic violence and sexual assault, short-term emotional support, domestic violence support groups, legal advocacy for victims, children/youth programs, temporary safe housing, sexual assault nurse examiners, and community outreach/education. If you or a family member need support due to a domestic violence situation or a sexual assault, please contact our offices at 315-379-9845. All services are provided free of charge.