Dear Friend,
As we close out July, VOA Illinois is proud to reflect on a month filled with connection and impact across the communities we serve. From supporting individuals and families through essential programs and services to strengthening partnerships that advance our mission, this summer has been a powerful reminder of what we can achieve together. In this edition, we’re excited to share recent highlights, celebrate successes, and keep you informed about upcoming opportunities to engage, learn, and make a difference. Thank you for being part of the VOA Illinois community and for helping us create brighter futures for those we serve.
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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Our resident donation pantries and wellness rooms provide essential items to individuals and families across our properties, and we need your support to keep them filled. Your generosity helps ensure that residents have access to everyday necessities when they need them most. We are always accepting donations of nonperishable food items, personal hygiene products, household essentials, cleaning supplies, and other everyday necessities. Every donation, big or small, makes a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.
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When Owen first connected with VOA Illinois' Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program, he was facing a series of overwhelming challenges. A U.S. Army veteran, he had lost both his job and his vehicle within weeks of each other in August 2025, leaving him without stable housing and relying on family and friends for a place to sleep.
Through VOA Illinois’ support, Owen was connected to a local job fair that ultimately led him to an internship that is expected to lead to stable employment in a growing industry. At the same time, VOA Illinois helped him secure housing, and in May 2026 he moved into his own apartment, providing the stability he needed to focus on his education, career development, and future goals. Owen credits VOA Illinois and the personalized support he received for helping him remain motivated and focused during a difficult transition. Owen said, "My life has done a complete 180-degree turn for the better. I’m not sure where I would be today if it wasn’t for the assistance of VOA Illinois." His story demonstrates how employment and housing services work hand in hand to create lasting change. By providing immediate support, career pathways, and a stable place to call home, VOA Illinois helped Owen move from homelessness and uncertainty to independence, opportunity, and hope for the future.
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The progress at Hope Manor Village Joliet, our newest housing development, is truly exciting to see! The buildings are coming together beautifully, and each day brings us one step closer to welcoming residents home. As construction continues, we're also looking ahead to creating spaces where families can gather, play, and thrive, with the children's playground being one of the next major milestones. Take a look at our latest video to see the progress!
As we prepare to open our doors, we are collecting donations of diapers and essential supplies for infants and young children to help families get off to a strong start in their new homes. Donations of diapers, wipes, formula, baby toiletries, and other children's necessities are greatly appreciated. Your support will help ensure that our youngest residents have the resources they need as they begin this exciting new chapter at Hope Manor Village Joliet.
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DONOR APPRECIATION CORNER |
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Operation Backpack is well underway, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who has participated this year. The success of this effort would not be possible without the generosity and support of our community. Whether you purchased a backpack, organized a collection drive with your coworkers, friends, or family, are planning to volunteer your time, made a donation, or simply helped spread the word, you have played an important role in helping children in our communities prepare for a successful school year. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps provide students with the tools and confidence they need to start the school year ready to learn.
Thanks to supporters like you, children throughout our communities will have access to essential school supplies that can make a meaningful difference in their lives. We are inspired by the incredible response we have seen so far and look forward to sharing updates that highlight the direct impact of your generosity. Thank you for being part of this important mission and for helping us make a lasting difference in the lives of the children and families we serve. |
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We are excited to continue counting down to our 9th Annual Charity Golf Classic on September 21! Every swing drives change, and YOU can be a part of the movement. Whether you choose to become a sponsor, register a foursome, or purchase an individual ticket, your support makes a meaningful difference. This event is more than just a day on the course. It is an opportunity for our community to come together in support of a shared mission and create lasting impact for the individuals and families we serve.
Every dollar raised through the Charity Golf Classic directly supports our essential programs, helping ensure that we can continue serving those who need it most. Together, we can make a real difference both on and off the course. Register today and help us drive change, one swing at a time! |
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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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