Volunteers of America held its sixth annual gala, presented by Bank of America, on April 16, 2026 at 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 stories and a look at VOA’s ongoing work addressing housing instability, early childhood education, and mental health support.
“From expanding Code Blue services in Ithaca to ensuring no family in Monroe County has to be placed in a motel to growing innovative programs like our hydroponic, we are responding, adapting, and evolving to meet the moment,” said Dr. Junior Dillion, president and CEO of Volunteers of America Upstate New York in his speech.
Dillion also addressed challenges facing Permanent Supportive Housing. “At a time when housing costs are rising and needs are growing, we are seeing proposals that would scale back investment in Permanent Supportive Housing. And I want to be clear, this is not the moment to retreat. This is the moment to double down. Because when we invest in PSH, we are not just funding a program, we are investing in people. We are saying that stability matters. That dignity matters. That everyone deserves a place to call home.”
Awards
Community partners were also recognized during the evening.
COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD: Van Bortel Automotive Group
Through their Subaru Loves to Help program in partnership with Operation Warm, Van Bortel Automotive Group has brought warmth and dignity to children served by Volunteers of America. This year marks the third consecutive year they have helped deliver brand-new winter coats to children at the VOA Children’s Center and families staying in the VOA emergency family shelters.
For a child, a winter coat is more than protection from the cold. It’s comfort and confidence. And thanks to Kitty Van Bortel and the Van Bortel Automotive Group, hundreds of children and families have experienced that simple but powerful act of kindness.
COLLABORATING IN CARE AWARD: Regional Health Reach
Honoring a nonprofit partner who works alongside Volunteers of America to expand access, deepen impact, and ensure individuals and families receive the support they deserve. Regional Health Reach shares VOA’s belief that not having a home should never mean going without quality healthcare.
Through their partnership with Regional Health Reach, Volunteers of America has been able to ensure that families at their shelters and residents at their housing programs have on-site health care available to them.
HEARTS & HANDS AWARD: Phyllis Robinson
For nearly nine years, Ms. Robinson has been a valued member of the VOA Children’s Center. Her leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment have made a lasting impact on our center. As lead teacher, she helps train new employees by demonstrating proper procedures and policies. Under her guidance, her universal pre-kindergarten classroom is more than just a learning space but a nurturing environment where children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
The growth and development of her students are clearly visible both inside and outside of the classroom. She intentionally creates opportunities for children to build independence while also learning the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Ms. Robinson sets high standards, models excellence, and inspires both her students and colleagues every single day. She leads with patience, consistency, and heart and represents true VOA values.
Thank you to our special Emcee for the evening,
News10NBC’s Deanna Dewberry.
Thank you to our 2026 sponsors
Presenting Sponsor
Visionary Sponsors
Innovator Sponsor
