About Us

Volunteers of America is the charity that always steps forward to help the most vulnerable. For over 125 years, we have taken on the most difficult tasks to help the most underserved.

At Volunteers of America, we are more than a nonprofit organization. We 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 our hundreds of human service programs, including housing and healthcare, Volunteers of America touches the lives of 1.5 million people in over 400 communities in 46 states as well as the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico each year. Since 1896, we have supported and empowered America's most vulnerable groups, including veterans, at-risk youth, older adults, men and women returning from prison, individuals and families experiencing homelessness, people with disabilities, and those recovering from substance use disorders. Our work touches the mind, body, heart — and ultimately the spirit — of those we serve, integrating our deep compassion with highly effective programs and services.

Approximately 60,000 volunteers throughout the country help our employees deliver these life-changing services. Find out how you can help.

Our Name

The name Volunteers of America was selected when the organization was founded over 125 years ago. It signified that the organization was comprised of people voluntarily choosing to help others. In those days, a volunteer was anyone who was committed to a mission or cause. Since its earliest days, when Volunteers of America brought food, medicine and comfort to people not served by other charities, volunteering has been instrumental in every aspect of the organization's ministry of service.

Today, our services are delivered through a partnership of professional staff, volunteers and other community supporters.