Empowering Women Through Acts Of Kindness
Volunteers of America provide over 1.5 million people with housing and emergency shelters
Photos courtesy of VOA Colorado | The comprehensive relief services available through VOA Colorado help keep families together.
Founded in 1896, Volunteers of America (VOA) is a faith-based nonprofit with programs in 46 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Serving more than 1.5 million people annually, including over 100,000 in Colorado, VOA is dedicated to helping those in need by providing housing and emergency shelters, hunger and nutrition services, and various other community support programs. VOA’s work touches the mind, body and heart of those it serves by integrating compassion into highly effective programs and services that build and strengthen communities.
Through more than 50 distinct human service programs, VOA Colorado measures its success by the positive changes in the lives of individuals and communities it serves. For example, the women-focused programs at VOA Colorado help single moms, women escaping domestic violence, female veterans, and women experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. These programs are among the shining lights that guide VOA Colorado.
Supporting women and their families with housing, mental health services, educational programs and more, the holistic approach at VOA Colorado is empowering women.
VOA has always championed and advocated for women, starting with its 1896 founding by Maud Ballington Booth. Maud was a fearless, forward-thinking and passionate woman driven by an innate sense of fairness and a belief in the dignity of all individuals, says Faustine Curry, vice president of VOA Colorado. “She was a pioneer and a leader in the social welfare revolution, and we carry her commitment with us every day. Her spirit guides every one of our programs.”
Case in point: the vast services VOA Colorado offers women. “We have some of the state’s most comprehensive relief services and programs for women, including the Irving Street Women’s Residence, which aims to provide a respite for chronically mentally ill women from a cycle of hopelessness,” says Curry. The residence provides job assistance and a focus on family reunification.
Another residence, the Theodora Family Hotel, is currently being constructed to house up to 60 families and veterans experiencing homelessness. “If we can keep a family unit together, the success rate of the family exiting homelessness increases exponentially,” Curry says.
In addition, the Women Veteran Services Programs serve female veterans and their children with supportive housing, case management and resources. The goal is to transition the family into a permanent housing facility.
In Southwest Colorado, the Durango Safehouse supports victims of domestic violence and intolerance. Women, children and families come through the doors seeking shelter and acceptance. “Our role is to provide a safe haven for those without a safe home and to offer the tools and support needed to recover from trauma and start anew,” Curry says. Additionally, the Durango Community Shelter has served families and individuals experiencing homelessness since 1991, providing over 9,000 nights of safe shelter annually to 500 individuals, 40 percent of whom are women and children.
The Green Willow Project is a rapid rehousing program for homeless survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. Once clients are safely housed, they are provided with basic home necessities like toiletries, cleaning supplies and kitchen items.
“We are dedicated to supporting and empowering women through a range of compassionate and transformative services, safe havens and essential resources,” Curry says.. “Our holistic approach ensures that women receive not only immediate assistance but also the tools and guidance necessary for long-term success and independence.”
Through educational programs, job training and personalized support, VOA Colorado inspires women to rebuild their lives, fostering resilience and empowering them to achieve their fullest potential. For example, SheLeads is a group of successful, accomplished, smart, fearless and pioneering women who work to uplift women in need in the Denver community. They help make connections that transform lives for long-term change. Through these initiatives, and many others, VOA Colorado not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters empowerment by equipping women with the skills and resources necessary for self-sufficiency and success.
To bring people who want to support women together, VOA Colorado offers Women Empowering Women events throughout the year. These gatherings feature engaging activities for all ages and are crafted to foster community spirit, increase awareness, and raise funds for the essential services that VOA Colorado provides throughout our state. Details about upcoming events as well as information on other ways to get involved are available on the VOA Colorado website.
