A LETTER FROM THE CEO

As we reflect on the past year, I am inspired by the unwavering resilience and hope that defined our journey. It is no secret that today’s nonprofits face significant hurdles like staffing shortages and funding challenges - while the needs within the communities we serve continue to grow. In the face of adversity, the people we serve, and our staff have courageously tapped into their passion and purpose to persevere and overcome challenges.

Our commitment to fostering well-being has never been more crucial. The interconnectedness of health, housing, and human services has become even more evident, highlighting the critical role nonprofits like VOA play in serving the whole person and reconnecting the social fabric.

Through innovative programs and collaborative efforts, we witness how individual well-being is intrinsically linked to the well-being of our communities and vice versa. We have the enormous privilege of witnessing lives transformed and communities uplifted.

We are looking ahead and developing a new strategic plan to guide VOA’s future path. Hundreds of voices are informing our future direction. Together, we can build healthier communities that foster resilience and prioritize the well-being of every person. In unity, we find compassion and strength. In hope, we find purpose. Thank you for being part of the VOA community. We are truly grateful for each and every one of you.

With gratitude,

Julie Manworren

President and CEO, Volunteers of America MN/WI

FY23 REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY

Our FY23 Report to the Community showcases the incredible impact we've made together. This success wouldn't be possible without the incredible support of people like you—thank you for being a vital part of our mission.

Celebrating Success

AMICUS’ EMPLOYMENT ADVANTAGE GRADUATION

Amicus' Employment Advantage program recently celebrated its graduates, showcasing the transformative power of support and empowerment. This initiative aids those with a history of involvement in the criminal legal system in overcoming job market challenges through essential skills training and personalized coaching. The program's success, highlighted by VOA’s Senior Director of Community Justice, Chris Doege, underlines the participants' resilience and determination. Graduates go forth equipped for meaningful community contributions, embodying the power of second chances. Amicus’ Employment Advantage program continues to be a beacon of hope, lighting the way for those seeking to rebuild their lives after incarceration.

Supporting Student Well-being

VOA’S IMPACT IN HENNEPIN COUNTY SCHOOLS

In Hennepin County, School-Based Mental Health programs are enhancing student well-being and preventing suicide, with research showing fewer suicide attempts and decreased suspensions among 6th to 12th graders. VOA's Vona Center for Mental Health supports over 65 students in Hennepin County, providing crucial mental health services in schools. Personal stories, like Jackie's from VOA High School, highlight the profound impact of School-Based Mental Health programs. Despite facing trauma and academic pressure, Jackie found support through weekly sessions with her therapist, improving her well-being and communication skills. VOA emphasizes the importance of increased access to these services for safe, thriving school environments.

Volunteer Spotlight

JOHN SYVERUD

What inspired you to become a VOA High School volunteer?

During my first year as a VOA MN/WI board member, I attended the grand opening of the new VOA High School location (across the street from my previous employer of 32+ years). I was impressed by the refurb of the space, but far more so with the enthusiasm and dedication of the staff I met during that initial visit. VOA High School’s director was enthusiastically welcoming and guided me through the volunteer process quickly.

What has surprised you about volunteering?

Several things: 1) How extraordinarily different the context is compared to my high school experience (granted, it’s been literally a half-century); 2) the broad spectrum of students’ attitudes and behavior (from typical post-pubescent silliness and irreverence to impressively serious studiousness); 3) the exceptional patience and diligence of the teaching and support staff - this continues to be truly inspirational for me.

What has been the biggest challenge? The biggest joy?

On one hand, they’re one and the same: Occasionally achieving a measure of trust with a student, allowing me to help work through a specific exercise on a given day. Another (unanticipated) joy was seeing a student who’d decided this old white guy could be occasionally helpful, a) earning the student of the month award a couple of months after we started working together and b) attending his graduation last June.

What advice would you give others who are thinking about volunteering?

Please consider it seriously. My experience (over and over) is that you’re likely to receive far more than the modest number of hours of effort you contribute.