OUR MISSION AND HISTORY

Exodus Homes is a faith-based supportive housing program located in Hickory, North Carolina, dedicated to assisting individuals transitioning from homelessness and incarceration to becoming productive community members.

Founding and Early Leadership

In 1997, Reverend Reggie Longcrier, a respected community leader, prison chaplain, and pastor, founded Exodus Homes. Recognizing the pressing need for supportive housing and comprehensive services for those facing addiction, homelessness, and reentry challenges, Rev. Longcrier established the organization to provide a structured and nurturing environment for individuals seeking transformation.

Longcrier’s contributions have earned him numerous accolades, such as the Governor’s Award for Volunteer Service, the Hickory Spirit of Martin Luther King Award, and the Key to the City of Hickory. In 2017, the city proclaimed October 18 as “Reverend Reggie Longcrier Day” in his honor.

Today, Rev. Longcrier continues to inspire through public speaking engagements, mentorship, and his unwavering dedication to social justice and community empowerment. His life stands as a powerful testament to the possibility of transformation and the enduring impact of faith and compassion.

Early on, Rev. Susan Smith joined him in this mission, bringing her leadership and relentless dedication to expanding services, advocating for justice, and ensuring that those society often forgets were given a real chance.

Ongoing Mission

Under the leadership of Rev. Longcrier and Carol Vandergrift, Exodus Homes continues its mission to provide supportive housing and services, fostering personal growth and community reintegration for those they serve.

WHY WE EXIST

Every day, countless individuals are released from incarceration, battle addiction, or face homelessness—alone, vulnerable, and without a clear path forward. For many, the cycle of despair repeats because they lack stable housing, supportive community, and the tools needed for real change. This is where Exodus Homes steps in.

Founded in 1997 by Rev. Reggie Longcrier, a prison chaplain with a deep passion for second chances, Exodus Homes was built on thebelief that every person deserves not just to survive, but to thrive. Rev. Longcrier saw the need firsthand—men and women leaving prison or treatment programs had nowhere to go, no support, and no way to break free from the past. He knew that without safehousing, structured support, and real opportunities, even the most determined individuals would struggle to succeed.

We exist because breaking free from addiction, homelessness, and the stigma of past mistakes is nearly impossible without a strong foundation. Exodus Homes provides more than just shelter—we offer a path to transformation, equipping people with the tools, community, and support they need to reclaim their futures with dignity.

From the beginning, our mission has been more than providing a place to stay. We offer a path to transformation—a structured, faith-based, and recovery-oriented community where people can heal, regain stability, and reenter society as empowered, contributing members.

From the early days of Exodus, Rev. Susan Smith stood as a driving force behind our mission. With unwavering passion and fierce commitment, she worked tirelessly to expand our services, advocate for justice, and make sure that those too often overlooked were seen, heard, and given a true opportunity to rebuild their lives. For 27 years, Rev. Smith poured her heart into this work, and her legacy lives on in every life touched by Exodus. We are deeply grateful for her service and forever indebted to her extraordinary contribution.

In 2018, Carol Vandergrift joined Exodus Homes as a financial consultant, helping strengthen financial operations and sustainability. Her expertise in accounting and strategic planning positioned her as a key leader in the organization’s future. In March 2024, she became CFO, and by August 2024, she stepped into the role of COO and CFO, ensuring Exodus Homes continues its mission for years to come.

With Rev. Longcrier’s unwavering leadership, Vandergrift’s financial and operational expertise, and the foundation laid by Rev. Smith, Exodus Homes remains steadfast in its commitment to providing second chances, breaking cycles of homelessness and addiction, and restoring hope to those who need it most.

We exist because change is possible—and no one should have to do it alone.

MEET OUR TEAM