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 people each year through housing and shelter, early childhood education, reentry services, and efforts to address food insecurity. These programs are designed to meet the evolving needs of the communities we serve and deliver meaningful results.
“By combining our long-standing legacy with modern approaches, we continue to tackle the complex challenges facing our communities.”
– Dr. Junior Dillion, President and CEO
Last year, VOA ensured that more than 1,200 individuals and families had safe, stable housing, provided child care and early childhood education for more than 130 children, and helped more than 100 men and women make a positive transition back into the community after leaving incarceration.
In total, we provided more than 182,000 nights of shelter and 150,000 meals to those in need, and our hydroponic farm distributed more than 2,220 donations of fresh produce to clients and food banks across the community.
Stories like Aisha’s put faces to the numbers, showing the real-life difference VOA makes every day. Every success is the result of the community working together, including staff, donors, and partners, whose dedication makes positive change possible.
As we move into the next decade, VOA continues to restore dignity, hope, and a sense of belonging for people facing challenges. Efforts are underway to expand long-term housing solutions that help individuals rebuild stability and self-reliance. We hope you will join us in our celebration.
Historical Timeline
- 1896 – Volunteers of America founded by social reformers Maud and Ballington Booth.
- 1900s First shelter for homeless individuals opens in Rochester.
- 1930s – Establishes food/clothing distribution and vocational training programs during the Great Depression.
- 1987 – Child care programs open in Rochester.
- 1995 – VOA programs in Monroe and Broome County join together.
- 1997 – Residential Reentry Center opens in Rochester.
- 2008 – First family shelter opens.
- 2016 – Cobblestone Place opens housing for older adults.
- 2020 – Keeps all programs open and operating throughout COVID.
- 2023 – Opens The Farm to address food insecurity.
- 2024 – Moving Forward Family Shelter opens.
- 2025 – Expand shelter services into Tompkins County.