Nancy Hughes Moyer

President and CEO, VOA Illinois

As we prepare to wrap up our fiscal year today, we want to say thank you to everyone who has supported us over the past 12 months. If you have not yet made a gift during this fiscal year, there is still time! Every dollar raised goes directly to our life changing programs and services. Your generosity helps ensure that our neighbors have access to safe housing, essential services, and the resources they need to build brighter futures. As we reflect on the impact we've made together this fiscal year, we hope you'll consider making a year-end contribution to help us meet growing needs across our communities. Every dollar makes a difference, and every gift brings hope.

When David came to VOA Illinois, he was experiencing homelessness after the loss of his significant other and the home they shared. As a Veteran facing financial hardship, he was connected to Hope Manor I. Once housed, David worked closely with our team to address the underlying challenges affecting his stability, including an undiagnosed mental health condition and substance use disorder. Through counseling, treatment, and access to VA and community resources, he began rebuilding his life. Today, David is living independently in his own apartment, pursuing financial stability, and confidently navigating the resources that support his success. His journey is a powerful example of how a holistic approach, addressing housing, health, recovery, and employment, can help Veterans achieve lasting stability and hope for the future.

Volunteers from BMO donated their time, talents, and supplies this month and spent the day at Hope Manor II/Hope Manor Village. This group rolled up their sleeves to tackle a wide range of beautification efforts across the property. Their work included painting stairways and the security room, power washing outdoor areas, installing pavers, spreading mulch, removing weeds, and cleaning windows and doors. Through their generosity and hands-on service, they helped refresh and enhance our property, creating a more welcoming environment for residents, staff, and visitors. Their commitment to giving back has left a lasting impression, and we are sincerely grateful for their support.

VOA Illinois is removing barriers to education one backpack at a time. Operation Backpack® is an annual drive to collect school supplies and backpacks for the children served by VOA Illinois and the surrounding community. Our goal is to provide each child we serve with a brand-new backpack and everything they need to start the school year off on a positive foot. We know without the proper materials and support a child will not succeed in the classroom.

This month, volunteers from Topel Forman joined us at Hope Manor I. This wonderful group spent the day cleaning and organizing storage spaces, washing windows and doors, and deep cleaning stairwells, helping to create a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming environment for residents and all who walk through the doors of Hope Manor I. They also brought neighbors together by hosting a special barbeque, providing residents with a chance to enjoy good food, fellowship, and community connection. Their dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to service transformed both our spaces and the spirit of our community, and we are deeply thankful for their support.

Thank you so much for your support of VOA Illinois! We would not be able to provide essential services to those who need it most, when they need it most, if it was not for supporters like yourself!

For any questions regarding the content of this Newsletter, please contact the development team.