Stories

Estelle Haskins didn’t set out to work in social services. But when the pandemic closed the daycare she was previously working at, an opportunity presented itself in a familiar place just three minutes from where she lives in Somerville: Agape House, one of VOADV’s three family shelters. “My mom used to work here years and years ago,” Ms. Haskins says. “I’ve lived around here for a long time, and I’ve always wanted to help out at Agape House.” Ms. Haskins joined VOADV in May 2021 as a Program Assistant and quickly began making a difference. We shared the story of…

For over six years, Celeste Robinson has been a cornerstone at our shelter for men, the Aletha R. Wright “Vision of Hope” Center (ARWC), bringing enthusiasm, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her role as Administrative Assistant. Originally starting out at ARWC as a Program Assistant, she quickly stepped into her current role, where she wears many hats to ensure the facility runs smoothly. Ms. Robinson’s path into social services wasn’t one she planned—but rather one she embraced. After years in retail and a role at the Center for Family Services, she heard about a position at Volunteers of America…

In celebration of National Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting the women at VOADV who lead with purpose and passion. Their vision, courage and strength shape our organization and communities, and we are proud to share their stories of empowerment and leadership.

January marks Human Trafficking Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about this pressing human rights issue. This year’s national awareness month theme, “Connecting the Dots,” underscores the importance of collaboration and a holistic approach to prevention. Throughout this month, and every day, VOADV reaffirms our commitment to providing services for survivors through partnerships, education and outreach. The Importance of “Connecting the Dots” The theme “Connecting the Dots” highlights the need to recognize and address the intersections between economic mobility, social relationships, technology, and the dangers of trafficking. At VOADV, “Connecting the Dots” is more than a theme; it…

Amani House, Volunteers of America Delaware Valley’s 25-bed transitional housing program for men, is committed to providing comprehensive support to homeless men in Mercer County, NJ. Amani House offers a safe space where individuals can work towards stability and self-sufficiency through a variety of specialized programs and resources. One of the key partnerships Amani House has developed is with the WorkWell program, a New Jersey-based initiative designed to help people reenter society after incarceration. WorkWell focuses on providing job training and life skills through ongoing training cycles. These programs are crucial for empowering participants with the tools and resources they…

From cleaning up parks and washing county vehicles to receiving identification and interviewing for full time positions, the Work Now program offers those experiencing homelessness a pathway to stable, independent lives through a paid day of work and access to crucial services. A partnership between Volunteers of America Delaware Valley and the Camden County Board of Commissioners, Work Now provides a unique opportunity for individuals who may have been reluctant to seek help initially. By earning a day’s wage, participants are incentivized to engage with services, breaking down barriers of mistrust and skepticism. The heart of the program lies in…

At VOADV, we help turn second chances into transformed lives and have been doing so for 128 years. From the very beginning, our co-founder Maud Booth was opening “Hope Halls” as an extension of her commitment to reforming and improving the conditions of the nation’s prison system. Today, VOADV’s Hope Hall is an American Correctional Association accredited 175-bed halfway house for adult males that provides services including case management, discharge planning, job coaching, substance use treatment and more. Clients at Hope Hall are given a second chance, as well as support and guidance throughout their journey to fulfilling whatever their…

One person’s generosity can make all the difference – even more so when a group of individuals looking to help come together. That is especially true for the incredible organizations that support VOADV in a variety of ways. Our clients greatly benefit from a kind, helping hand on their journey towards independence – and we are so grateful for the generous support we receive from local organizations looking to make a difference! Keller William’s annual Red Day is focused around their commitment to community service and giving back to the people and locations that support them. We were grateful to…

The 2024 VOA National Conference is complete! The VOADV team had a busy and productive few days in National Harbor, MD – here are some of the highlights! Team members Daniel Smith and Jamal Miles were commissioned as ministers, while Tamara Davis was ordained as a minister. VOADV board member Maury Reiter won the 2024 Governance Innovator Award. COO Kathy White-Thomas spoke on the panel Navigating Your Leadership Journey: A Female Perspective. Members of the team supported Volunteers of America – Greater New York by attending their panel Identifying and Treating Traumatic Brain Injury Caused by Domestic Violence. Health Equity…

When Tamika Levels-Hood, Vice President of Homeless Services, started college she was not entirely sure what she wanted to do. She only knew that she wanted to help others. At first, she thought she wanted to be an attorney focusing on social justice. Instead, her college experience guided her toward a career with more hands-on social services work. “I had, without my parents knowing, changed my major from English to Sociology, and I took a minor in Criminal Justice,” said Ms. Levels-Hood. “And I definitely waited awhile to tell them.” Ms. Levels-Hood began her career at Volunteers of America Delaware…