Dear Katie,
As May draws to a close, at VOA Illinois we’re reminded that growth takes time, and every seed planted can create something meaningful. Across Illinois, your support is helping people find stability, hope, and new beginnings. This season of renewal is a powerful reflection of what’s possible when a community comes together, and we’re grateful to have you as part of that story.
Sincerely, |
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Nancy Hughes Moyer
President and CEO, VOA Illinois |
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HOW YOU CAN HELP RIGHT NOW |
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Education plays a critical role in breaking the cycle of poverty for low-income families, but when students lack the supplies they need, it affects participation, confidence, and long-term outcomes. By meeting this fundamental need, VOA Illinois’ Operation Backpack® is leveling the playing field, so all students are empowered to succeed inside and outside the classroom. You can help us support the students in our communities by supporting Operation Backpack®! |
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For those who may have missed this year's Leadership Celebration, one of our award recipients was a resident of our Hope Manor Joliet property. Rosita, an Army veteran, stepped forward to care for her school-aged grandchildren following the passing of her daughter and the prior loss of the children’s father, ensuring they would have the stability, love, and security they so deeply needed. Despite facing one of the most difficult periods of her life, her commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment ultimately led her to Hope Manor Joliet.
Along the way, Rosita has navigated behavioral challenges with one of her grandsons, yet she continues to persevere and make a meaningful difference in their lives. Her unwavering love and kindness create a sense of comfort and security for the children. She has given her heart and soul to ensuring their needs are met, and even in the midst of her own grief, she remains steadfast in her refusal to give up. |
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This month, our managers and leaders had the opportunity to come together for dedicated time focused on connection, growth, and collaboration. Through intentional conversations and shared learning experiences, they were able to learn from one another, strengthen their leadership skills, and gain valuable new perspectives. This meaningful time allowed leaders to deepen their understanding of each other’s programs, foster stronger relationships, and build lasting bonds across teams. By creating space for open dialogue and connection, we continue to strengthen interdepartmental collaboration and cultivate a supportive leadership community that will not only positively impact our work moving forward, but more importantly, positively impact the people we serve.
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DONOR APPRECIATION CORNER |
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We would like to extend our deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported this year’s Leadership Celebration. Thanks to the incredible generosity and enthusiasm of our sponsors, donors, and attendees, the event was truly a tremendous success. Your support not only made this celebration possible but also continues to fuel the important work we do every day. We are inspired by your commitment and partnership, and we are profoundly grateful to have such a dedicated community standing with us. Thank you for helping us make a lasting impact. We could not do it without you!
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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. |
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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! |
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© Copyright 2026 VOA Illinois — All Rights Reserved. We are designated tax-exempt under section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Code. Tax ID 36-2723047. Your contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. |
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