Neighborhood Nonprofit Spotlight: Volunteers of America Oregon

Patch talks to the Volunteers of America Oregon chapter to learn about how they bring passion and kindness to the Oregon nonprofit community.

Patch: Tell Patch a little about you and your organization!

Volunteers of America Oregon: Volunteers of America Oregon nurtures, uplifts, and empowers the most vulnerable members of our community, providing them with the tools and support they need to help themselves. Our mission is to change lives by promoting self-determination, building strong communities, and standing for social justice. We serve 19,000 people in the Portland metropolitan area each year through 32 direct service programs in five main areas: children and family, seniors services; public safety; addictions prevention and treatment; and business enterprises.

Patch: How does your organization help to strengthen the local community?

Volunteers of America Oregon: Our goals are to strengthen vulnerable families and adults; facilitate transitions into the community from prison, jail, and substance abuse treatment; provide addictions prevention and treatment; offer support, resources, and aid to domestic violence survivors; prevent child abuse and neglect; and enhance the lives of seniors and disabled adults and their caregivers.

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Patch: When did you open?

Volunteers of America Oregon: 1896

Patch: What is the biggest struggle your organization faces?

Volunteers of America Oregon: Our biggest struggle is to broaden and deepen community awareness about the range of social services VOA Oregon engages in. We have helped tens of thousands of men, women, and children escape the cycle of crime and addictions, domestic and family violence, and isolation. Building greater awareness of our success and broad impact can facilitate greater community financial support.

Patch: What do you hope for the future of your nonprofit?

Volunteers of America Oregon: We hope to expand our reach in terms of both range and demographics, allowing new generations of donors to know and support our work, as well as helping the wider community see how their involvement as donors or volunteers contributes to overall community well-being and stability.