Stories

How VOA Southeast Supports Individuals with Developmental Disabilities

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.

Hands holding a house cutout

Homelessness and the Housing First Model in Alabama and Georgia: a Data-Driven Look

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.

Michael, a 61-year-old U.S. Marine Corps veteran from Alabama who got back on his feet through transitional housing from VOA Southeast

Transitional Housing for Veterans: Getting A New Start

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.

William

Expressing Himself Through Art and Work: How VOA Southeast Has Helped William Grow

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.

LaShaunda Wells
Young child with paint on hands

Looking Back on the 2024 Season of Caring: A Celebration of Community Impact

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.

veteran

Understanding Veterans’ Needs: One Man’s Road Back to Everyday Life

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.

girl in wheelchair

A Home for Aubrey: How The Ministry Work of VOA Southeast Empowers People and Communities

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.

Seniors playing cards

Affordable Housing at VOA Southeast: Part 2 – Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC)

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.

Older Woman Smiling

Affordable Housing at VOA Southeast: Part 1 – Housing & Urban Development

VOA Southeast is committed to providing safe, affordable housing to seniors across Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi. In this blog, we spotlight Gail Austin, a resident of Wiggins Senior Apartments in Mississippi, who shares how her life has improved since moving into a VOA Southeast-managed community. From modern amenities to prompt maintenance and a welcoming environment, Gail’s story illustrates how VOA Southeast ensures seniors live with dignity and comfort. With over 2,700 units of affordable housing, more than a third reserved for seniors, VOA Southeast continues to make housing accessible for low-income individuals, promoting community engagement and quality of life.

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