News and Events

This September, VOA is lacing up their shoes for the first Hike to End Homelessness, a one-mile community walk that unites individuals, businesses, and organizations in support of safe housing and hope for those experiencing homelessness. Along the way, walkers will learn about the impact VOA programs have on the journey from homelessness to stability. Join us and bring the whole family. Children 12 and under are free, and as a thank-you for early registration, all adult participants who sign up by August 13 are guaranteed a free t-shirt in their size. Virtual participation is welcome for those who can’t…

Preschool education is more than just play. The learning that occurs in these early years supports cognitive, social, and emotional development, building the skills that prepare children for long-term academic success. With proud families by their side to mark this exciting milestone, 54 preschool students celebrated their graduation at the VOA Children’s Center. The ceremony recognized their growth, achievements, and readiness to take the next step into kindergarten. Our teachers couldn’t be prouder of all they’ve accomplished.

Now in its 36th year, I Remember Mama is a long-standing VOA tradition that honors women across generations from older mothers and grandmothers who may be separated from loved ones to young mothers working to rebuild stability for themselves and their children. While every woman’s experience is different, the impact of feeling remembered and appreciated on Mother’s Day can be deeply meaningful. VOA delivered more than 200 gift bags filled with flowers, cards, and small treats. Distribution included residents at Cobblestone Place Apartments, mothers staying in VOA’s emergency family shelters, and women served through community partners including Jordan Health, Catholic…

Volunteers of America held its sixth annual gala, presented by Bank of America, on April 16, 2026 at the Harro East Ballroom as part of its continued 130 anniversary celebration, bringing together community leaders, supporters, and partners to highlight the organization’s impact and the growing need for services across the region. The event, themed “Past. Present, and Possibilities,” raised $100,000 in support of VOA programs serving individuals and families throughout Upstate New York. News10NBC’s Deanna Dewberry emceed the evening that included remarks from local officials, including Rochester Mayor Malik Evans and New York State Senator Jeremy Cooney, along with client…

What kids really need from their dads, according to science. Father’s Day is a time to celebrate dads, but for millions of children in America, the day is a little more complicated with a parent behind bars or without a stable place to live. These are the families rarely featured in Father’s Day stories, and yet two new studies cut through common assumptions about what makes a good father, and the findings might surprise you. Dr. Junior Dillion, President and CEO of Volunteers of America Upstate New York, and Michael Chen, adjunct professor of Public Health at Nazareth University, recently…

From the desk of Dr. Junior Dillion, President and CEO of Volunteers of America Upstate New York Permanent Supportive Housing plays a vital role in helping people move beyond homelessness and build stable, healthier lives. By combining long-term affordable rental assistance with flexible, person-centered support services, PSH serves individuals living with disabilities, chronic health conditions, substance use disorders, and complex behavioral health needs. Research consistently shows it reduces returns to homelessness and out performs short-term solutions. Chronic homelessness is not simply a housing availability issue. The public debate often frames PSH as costly, but it actually reduces overall public spending…

April is Financial Literacy Month. At VOA, we know that true stability goes beyond housing. It also means having the tools, knowledge, and confidence to make informed financial decisions. Bank of America has partnered with Volunteers of America Upstate New York to provide its signature Better Money Habits® financial education program directly to residents in VOA’s emergency family shelter. “Our clients have really been enjoying these classes and learning from the instructors,” said shelter director Sam Moskowitz. “Many of our clients have mentioned how no one has ever taught them basic finances, and in some cases their parents have never…

A mother of six, Lakeya, and her children were unexpectedly uprooted when her landlord lost his property, and they were forced to move out in a hurry. Despite working full-time as a bus driver and recruiter, with a low credit score and limited housing options, finding a new place proved nearly impossible. Leaving her with nowhere to go, she felt alone in the world. “You get this sense of feeling you let your children down,” she shared. Lakeya made the heartbreaking decision to split her children between family and friends. Some nights, she slept in her car. Asking for help…

Local leaders across Upstate New York helped commemorate VOA’s founding week and the organization’s 130th anniversary by proclaiming March 8 as “Volunteers of America Day” in Monroe, Broome, and Tompkins counties. In Rochester, the celebration quite literally lit up the night with the city skyline illuminated in red and blue, a reminder that hope shines brightly when a community comes together. Across our program sites, staff also marked the occasion with celebrations of their own, coming together to reflect on the work they do each day to support our neighbors. At the same time, supporters rallied around our mission for…

For 130 years, Volunteers of America has shown up in the moments that matter most. What began in 1896 as a movement rooted in compassion has grown into a vital source of housing, care, and support throughout Upstate New York. As we honor this milestone, we celebrate both our rich history and the difference being made every day. VOA’s founders Maud and Ballington Booth began their early work advocating for the rights of those who were exiting the criminal justice system, supporting people experiencing poverty, and going wherever they were needed. Today, VOA Upstate New York serves more than 10,000…