Our Mission The Volunteers of America Colorado Branch seeks to identify and serve the basic needs of the most vulnerable individuals and families in the community. A Little History… Volunteers of America is a national, non-profit, spiritually-based human services agency with over one hundred and sixty program centers in cities throughout the United States. In 1865, William and Catherine Booth of England founded the Salvation Army. In 1887, they sent their second son, Ballington, and his wife Maud, to America to take charge of the Salvation Army’s new branch in New York City. However after seeing the need to create a local social service agency specifically for Americans, they split from the Salvation Army and created Volunteers of America in 1896. The Booth’s envisioned a movement dedicated to “reaching and uplifting” the American people. Sites were established simultaneously in Leadville, Colorado, and in New York, beginning what was to be one of the greatest outreach efforts in American history. Nationally we are one of the largest and most comprehensive charitable nonprofit human services organizations. To, “…go wherever we are needed, and do whatever comes to hand.” the Booths In Colorado… The Colorado Branch of Volunteers of America has been in operation since 1896. During its infancy, Volunteers of America Colorado primarily helped homeless, unemployed miners and provided medical services through free clinics. Today, VOA directs many programs for people of all ages, including the elderly, troubled adolescents, victims of domestic violence, homeless families and the deaf. Our services extend to clients in many cities, and as new needs arise we hope to expand our programs and areas of service throughout the state. In Larimer County… In 1974, Volunteers of America established its first program in Larimer County, the Foster Grandparent Program. Since then we have grown to include services affecting thousands of residents. Currently we have four programs in the county dedicated to serving those in need. The Foster Grandparent Program A program developed to strengthen intergenerational bonds by bringing together youth and senior citizens. Currently we have 20 seniors working with youth around the county. The Handyman Program The goal of this program is to enable elderly and disabled residents to live independently in their own homes. Simple repairs and home maintenance such as installing grab bars and building chair platforms are accomplished by the dedication of over 30 volunteers, mostly seniors themselves. In the year 2000, we reached over 800 clients, helping them to live safe and independent lives. The Seniors’ Nutrition Program Click Here for menu Every weekday this program serves hot nutritious meals to seniors at 11 congregate meal sites around the county. Home delivered meals are also provided for homebound persons or those with disabilities. In the year 2001, we served over 54,000 meals to over 2000 seniors! Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) The Volunteers of America RSVP program provides volunteer opportunities for individuals 55 years and older to use their skills, insight and lifetime experiences to assist residents and non-profit agencies in the county. Currently there are over 850 seniors helping to improve the lives of people in Larimer County.