You probably have a few questions about Volunteers of America Western Washington. Below, you will find the answers to some frequently asked questions, and hopefully one of them is yours. However, if you don’t find the answers you need here, please feel free to email us or call 425-259-3191 or 877-YOU-N-VOA.  We will do the best we can to help!

Q:  What programs and services does Volunteers of America Western Washington provide?

A:  We do so many things, for so many people, on such as large basis.  We offer many regional human service programs throughout eight counties: Island, King, Kitsap, Pierce, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, and Whatcom. Volunteers of America listens closely to each local community’s private and public sectors to discover unmet needs, thereby avoiding duplication of services.

Our Find Resources section will not only give you a glimpse into the services we offer, but also - and more importantly - help you visualize the positive impact we make in individuals’ and families’ lives each and every day.

Q:  Isn’t Volunteers of America a national organization?

A:  Yes, Volunteers of America is a national, nonprofit, faith-based organization dedicated to helping people in need to rebuild their lives and reach their full potential.

Through thousands of human service programs, including housing and healthcare, Volunteers of America helps nearly 2 million people in over 400 communities across the nation serving 44 states.  Since 1896, our ministry of service has supported and empowered America’s most vulnerable groups, including at-risk youth, the frail elderly, men and women returning from prison, homeless individuals and families, people with disabilities, and those recovering from addictions. We strive to not only affect the material condition of those we serve, but to touch and strengthen their spirit. And we accomplish this by integrating our deep compassion with highly effective programs and services.

Q:  How is the local Volunteers of America connected to the national organization?

A:  Volunteers of America Western Washington is a locally incorporated affiliate of Volunteers of America. We are chartered to serve Washington State west of the Cascade Mountains by providing human service programs and opportunities for individual and community involvement.

We are dedicated professionals who listen closely to our local community to discover unmet needs and then create solutions for our region’s most critical human service challenges. Our board, staff, and volunteers extend our local ministry of service to people of diverse faiths and cultures, in all stages of their lives, and in all aspects of their need. We tailor programs to respond to each community’s unique needs and offer individuals the tools and support necessary to reach self-reliance. In our experience, we see that helping others to help themselves restores dignity, self-respect, and hope.

Q: Why do you call yourselves "volunteers"?  

A:  The name Volunteers of America was selected when the organization was founded more than 108 years ago. It signified that the organization was comprised of people voluntarily choosing to dedicate their life’s vocation to helping others. Our services today are delivered through significant partnerships among professional staff, volunteers, and other community supporters.

Q:  How are you funded, and how much of every contributed dollar is spent directly on your programs?

A:  We receive funding from the following sources:

• 44% private contributions
• 5% program fees and investments
• 51% government fees and grants

Eighty-eight cents of every dollar in Volunteers of America’s nearly $20 million operating budget go directly to services for individuals and families in need. Volunteers of America knows how to make a little go a long way. Every day we see that one person-a single individual-can truly change the lives of many. Being effective stewards of our resources is one of our guiding principles. We understand and appreciate the value of our resources and direct them efficiently toward those we serve.

Q:  Why should I choose to support the work of Volunteers of America over any other organization?

A:  There are a lot of excellent organizations out there, however, we have the capacity and experience to create real solutions for our area’s most critical human service challenges. When you contribute to Volunteers of America-either financially or by volunteering-you help to:

• Support positive development for children and youth
• Foster independence for seniors and persons with developmental disabilities
• Promote self-sufficiency for the hungry, homeless, and those in personal crisis
• Build community capacity for all individuals and families in the region

Volunteers of America’s expansive network of programs provide numerous, unique giving opportunities for people who want to help.

Q:  Do you have paid employees?

A:  Yes. Almost 450 regular professional staff dedicate their lives to our mission every working day. We rely on our staff to provide industry knowledge, expertise, continuity and effective services. The average tenure among our staff leadership exceeds twelve years, assuring effectiveness, as well as operational efficiency. If you are interested in a position with Volunteers of America, please see our list of current job openings, or contact us at 425/259-3191 for more information.

Q:  Do you engage volunteers in your work?

A:  Yes! Nearly 450 volunteers give over 98,000 service hours each year. Volunteers are an integral part of how we successfully make our positive social impact.

Volunteers step forward for a variety of reasons. Some want to make a difference in the world around them, while others are concerned about specific community issues. Or perhaps some must perform school or court-ordered community service. Volunteers are a vital component of our mission, including our Board of Directors, who set policy and provide direction for the organization. Other volunteers actively engage in administrative or direct service opportunities, thus improving our ability to facilitate social impact:

Q:  I want to volunteer!  How should I go about getting started?

A:  Whatever your local cause, you’ve found the right place to make a unique, positive impact on your community. To volunteer, start by browsing our list of current opportunities.  Also feel free to email our volunteer office  or contact us for more information at 425-259-3191 or 877-YOU-N-VOA.