At James Cole Village, families gathered to celebrate our Legacy of Love event honoring grandparents and the generations they inspire thanks to United Healthcare. The morning was filled with laughter, connection, and gratitude, reminding us that community is built through shared moments and meaningful relationships.

Three members of our Volunteers of America of Florida team were recognized at a U.S. Soccer match for their dedication and service to our communities thanks to The Home Depot Foundation. Moments like these spotlights the passion, leadership, and impact our staff bring to the mission every day and the impact your support makes possible through the people doing the work every day.

Residents at James Cole Village experienced an unforgettable day when WWE stopped by to share excitement and joy. Moments like these go beyond entertainment. They create lasting memories and remind our residents that they are seen, valued, and supported by a caring community like you.

Because of you, more families now have a place to call home. We proudly celebrated the grand opening of Space Coast Commons, expanding access to safe, affordable housing in Brevard County. This new community represents stability, dignity, and hope.

VOAF launched the first Operation Backpack, providing students with backpacks and essential school supplies to support a strong start to the school year. This milestone event reinforced our commitment to education, opportunity, and removing barriers for families.

VOAF opened Thomas Pines, delivering 35 new affordable homes including 12 units for extremely low-income residents. This development brings safety, stability, and hope to a community facing a critical housing shortage.

We celebrated the reopening of Clear Bay Terrace and Creekside Manor I & II following extensive renovations. Thanks to generous funders and partners, seniors now have safe, accessible, and beautiful homes where they can age with dignity and independence.

The Mission Continues launched Operation Tampa Bay Blitz at James Cole Veterans Village, selecting VOAF as their first stop. Volunteers dedicated a powerful day of service before continuing their impact across the Tampa Bay community.

Janet Stringfellow, President & CEO of Volunteers of America of Florida, was honored with the Excellence in Philanthropy Award. This recognition reflects her unwavering dedication and leadership in strengthening communities across Florida.

Thanks to Graham Barton from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and a partnership with Metropolitan Ministries VOAF hosted the first Holiday Touchdown Food Giveaway at James Cole Village. Families in the Tampa community received 150 turkeys and holiday food boxes just in time to celebrate the holidays. Together, we came together to spread hope, nourishment, and kindness during the holiday season—showing what’s possible when compassion leads the way.

We’re proud to celebrate Stephanie Vranich, Vice President of Development & Outreach, who was named the Most Valuable ‘Burger (MVB) Award winner at the 13th Annual Good ‘Burger Awards, hosted by the St. Petersburg Chamber. This recognition reflects the passion, leadership, and heart she brings to advancing VOAF’s mission every day.

Over the course of a year, The Housing Experiment followed residents at Innovare as they rebuilt their lives, formed community, and found stability through housing and supportive services. We’re grateful to the residents who bravely shared their stories and to the Tampa Bay Times for amplifying these voices powerful storytelling made possible through partnership, trust, and donor-supported housing like Innovare.

Your support of VOA Florida makes a real difference. Because of your generosity, we can provide essential services to those who need them most, right when they need them. We couldn’t do this important work without you!