Volunteers of America is the charity that always steps forward to help the most vulnerable. For over 120 years, they have taken on the most difficult tasks to help the most underserved.

At Volunteers of America, they are more than a nonprofit organization. They are a ministry of service that includes nearly 16,000 paid, professional employees dedicated to helping those in need rebuild their lives and reach their full potential.

Through their hundreds of human service programs, including housing and healthcare, Volunteers of America touches the lives of more than 2 million people in over 400 communities in 46 states as well as the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico each year. Since 1896, they have supported and empowered America's most vulnerable groups, including veterans, at-risk youth, the frail elderly, men and women returning from prison, homeless individuals and families, people with disabilities, and those recovering from addictions. Their work touches the mind, body, heart — and ultimately the spirit — of those they serve, integrating their deep compassion with highly effective programs and services.

 History:

Volunteers of America was founded in 1896 by Maud and Ballington Booth. Their commission was to reach and uplift all people and bring them to the immediate knowledge and active service of God. As a product of the social gospel movement, Volunteers of America’s emphasis has always been on the unity of the message. The movement now embraces nearly all aspects of the Christian faith, reflecting a doctrine of pluralism that affirms the central truth of Christianity, but acknowledges the many paths that have developed to experiencing that truth. 

Their work and Faith

For more than a century, dedicated men and women have felt the call to Christian ministry in Volunteers of America. Their ministers are drawn from every Christian denomination and are encouraged to serve as active members of other churches. This understanding of ministry derives from the foundation of Volunteers of America as both a church and an “auxiliary” to the universal Christian church with a special mission of service. To be accepted as spiritual leaders in our ministry of service, Volunteers of America ministers must meet all requirements for theological study and spiritual formation. 

Spiritual Support for Clients

Volunteers of America co-founder Ballington Booth described the special role of Volunteers of America as “an organization which brings together the work of the church and the work of the social service organization.” For more than a century, Volunteers of America has provided essential services and opportunities to people of all faiths. They excel at meeting immediate needs, but are able to transform lives through their belief in, and reliance on, grace.