The concept of “home” extends far beyond the mere physical structure. Volunteers of America (VOA) has been actively involved in driving social change since its establishment in 1896. Their central mission revolves around providing more than just a place to live; they aspire to foster a genuine sense of belonging through their extensive and impactful network of affordable housing.
Starting from humble beginnings, Volunteers of America has evolved into one of the country’s largest and most influential nonprofit organizations dedicated to affordable housing. In 2018, Affordable Housing Finance Magazine acknowledged their substantial contributions, ranking them as the #4 nonprofit developer and #29 among the combined list of the largest nonprofit and for-profit developers.
VOA’s network of affordable housing covers 42 states, including Puerto Rico, encompassing over 500 properties and 20,000 units of affordable housing. These properties range from expansive urban complexes to smaller rural developments, designed to serve diverse communities, including seniors, veterans, families, and individuals with disabilities.
Innovating Tomorrows
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Dignity in Aging
VOA is a national leader in seniors housing and care, providing excellent care. Independence is a valued part of life for seniors, and VOA’s commitment to service-enriched housing ensures that clients maintain the quality of life they desire.
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A Home to Call their Own
Every veteran deserves a place to call home. Through VOA, individual veterans and veterans with families have access to a flexible continuum of housing and supportive services. Their buildings range from studio apartments to townhomes, ensuring that veterans from all walks of life can get the help they need.
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Building Strong Communities
VOA’s affordable housing network recognizes that stable families are the foundation of strong communities. They provide shelter for the unhoused and help first-time homebuyers, while ensuring that families have the space and services they need to thrive. VOA strengthens communities across the country by addressing the universal needs of individuals and families.
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Increasing Independence
Housing for people with disabilities should meet their unique needs and preferences. VOA’s strategy goes beyond simple shelter; it prioritizes design, operation, and adaptability to meet changing needs. Activities, health care, and transportation services are provided to promote independence, emphasizing that independent living is about choice and empowerment, not just assistance.
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Sustainability
Volunteers of America is committed to creating sustainable communities, not just homes. As a proud member of the Partnership for Sustainable Communities, they actively contribute to environmentally, economically and socially sustainable community planning and development. Their integrated approach to housing and community development demonstrates their commitment to a better future for all.
Conclusion
Volunteers of America’s affordable housing network goes beyond housing. It promotes dignity, freedom and belonging. VOA’s affordable housing program is changing lives, one neighborhood at a time, for seniors, veterans, families, and people with disabilities. Beyond the bricks and materials, their legacy lives on in the hearts of the many individuals and families they have helped. Volunteers of America is a leader in building stronger, more resilient communities through affordable housing.
