In this insightful Q&A session, we delve into the remarkable journey and impactful experiences of Chad Cheshire, the Director of Homelessness & Prevention Services at Volunteers of America (VOA) Southeast. From his military service to his pivotal role in shaping VOA Southeast’s Veteran Services programs, Chad shares personal stories, challenges, and triumphs.
They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. VOA Southeast’s Helping Families Initiative (HFI) was built on a simple but powerful principle: intervene early, and you can change the trajectory of a child’s life—and a community’s future. By identifying and addressing the root causes behind chronic school absences in Alabama communities, HFI solves small problems before they grow into major ones.
We at Volunteers of America Southeast are committed to creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. Through our person-centered approach, we empower individuals to live independently, with dignity and fulfillment, while fostering inclusivity and growth within their communities.
When someone is experiencing homelessness, typically there are a number of related physical, mental, and circumstantial factors, any of which could be causing the situation or at least making it worse. This blog takes a data-driven look at the Housing First model for ending homelessness and considers how Volunteers of America Southeast is using this approach in Alabama and Georgia.
The journey out of housing insecurity doesn’t happen in a day: it’s a long path that requires many helping hands as you’ll see in the case of Michael, a US Marine Corp veteran. With transitional housing, VOA Southeast is able to offer homeless or at-risk veterans a temporary place to live so they can get the foothold they need to make progress.
Discover how William, a talented artist with autism and an intellectual disability, found independence and inclusion through VOA Southeast’s programs. From expressing himself through art to thriving in his first community employment job, William’s story is a testament to the power of personalized support and opportunities. Read his inspiring story here.
At VOA Southeast, we believe in celebrating the exceptional contributions of our team members who embody our core values. This year, LaShaunda Wells, Property Manager at Highpoint, has earned the spotlight for receiving the most nominations in our Bravo recognition program.
The 2024 Season of Caring’s 10 Caring Gifts initiative was truly extraordinary, and it wouldn’t have been possible without your steadfast support. Through the 10 Caring Gifts campaign, we were able to bring warmth, comfort, and joy to thousands of individuals and families in need. This included at-risk youth, foster children, homeless veterans, low-income seniors, individuals with intellectual disabilities, and many other community members across our region. With the help of over thirty partner organizations and churches, we were able to make a meaningful impact on countless lives.
How does one rebuild a life without basic necessities like transportation or stable housing? For Reuben, an Army veteran, overcoming homelessness meant navigating these challenges with the help of VOA Southeast’s veteran-focused programs. Learn how Reuben found housing, employment, and a renewed sense of independence, thanks to compassionate support from those who understand the unique needs of veterans.
When Abbey first met her foster-daughter-to-be, Aubrey had spent over 100 days in the hospital due to medical neglect. Living with cerebral palsy, Aubrey faces unimaginable challenges—she cannot speak, walk, or eat on her own, and she needs 24/7 nursing care. But when Abbey encountered an accessibility barrier at home, VOA Southeast stepped in to help. With the support of our Ramp Ministry, a life-changing ramp was built, making it possible for Aubrey to come home and thrive. Read her full story here.
At VOA Southeast, we believe everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to live. Through the Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program, we’re building communities like Newnan Crossing, a 74-unit development for seniors. For residents like Miss Sharlean, a former Family Dollar District Manager who now calls Newnan Crossing home, the difference is life-changing. Discover how VOA Southeast is investing in affordable housing to transform lives in Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi.