Volunteers of America Western Washington impact and financial data for 2024 2024 ANNUAL REPORT Program Highlights Why Give Leadership Financial Summary Coming Soon! Top In 2024, VOAWW continued to empower individuals and strengthen communities across Washington State. Our programs reached thousands, providing 24/7 crisis support through our nationally recognized crisis contact center, youth development programs, housing assistance, and senior care. We helped individuals facing homelessness find stability, supported families through life’s challenges, and provided space and activities for seniors to thrive. Our dedicated staff and volunteers have been vital in offering essential resources, from behavioral health services to providing safe spaces for youth. With your ongoing support, we remain committed to fostering hope and creating lasting change, ensuring that those in need have access to the services and care they deserve. Together, we are building a brighter future for all. VOAWW at the Building Resiliency Conference A Letter from Our CEO As we reflect on 2024, I am filled with immense gratitude for the progress we have made together at Volunteers of America Western Washington (VOAWW). This year has been marked by extraordinary stories of resilience, transformation, and the deep support from our community. None of this would be possible without three essential groups: our incredible Board of Directors—both past and present—whose leadership and dedication continue to guide us, our passionate staff—nearly 900 strong—whose commitment to our mission drives everything we do, and our supporters—donors, volunteers, community partners, and elected officials—without whom none of this work would be possible. It truly takes a village, and we are so thankful to have you as part of ours. We witnessed the profound impact of our services this year through stories like Tricia’s. A single mother of four, Tricia and her children were sleeping in their car before finding support through our housing services team. When they spent their first night in a warm motel room, her children cheered, “Yay! We get pillows! We get to take a bath tonight!”—a heartbreaking reminder that basic comforts are a luxury for so many. Today, thanks to your support, Tricia and her children have moved into stable housing, giving her the opportunity to build a better future for her family. Our mission—to empower people and strengthen communities—is at the core of everything we do. Whether we are nurturing the potential of our youth, providing meals to those facing hunger, or supporting elders in our senior centers, VOAWW remains steadfast in our commitment to serve people in every season of life. Your contributions sustain this work and amplify our impact. We have also seen an unprecedented rise in the need for food assistance. In October, our Everett Community Food Bank served 9,616 of our neighbors, the second-highest number in a single month in the past 25 years—a 32% year-over-year increase. The need is great, but so is our determination to meet it. As we prepare for the future, I invite you to deepen your involvement with VOAWW. Whether through financial contributions, volunteering your time, or even serving on our Board, your engagement is critical in helping us build a stronger, more compassionate community. Together, we have accomplished so much, and yet, there is more work to be done. Thank you for standing with us in this mission. With your support, we will continue to bring hope and opportunity to those who need it most. With gratitude, Brian Smith President & CEO Volunteers of America Western Washington 2024 Highlights 860 dedicated staff are essential to providing the dozens of services among our 8 key program areas serving Western Washington, with some programs operating statewide. Empowering People. 10.6M lbs of food distributed, providing nearly 9 million meals to neighbors in need. 289,283 calls & texts answered, helping neighbors in crisis find the support, hope, and care they need. 89,830 hours of in-home care helping 68 adults with developmental disabilities live independently. $1.1M in direct assistance to 4,541 households, supporting basic needs like rent, utilities, and groceries. Strengthening Communities. 28,024 hours served by 602 volunteers of all ages, bringing hope and help to community. 6,407 seniors supported in healthy living, building connection and belonging at our community centers. 137 preschoolers gained the skills needed to thrive in kindergarten and beyond. 1,388 disputes resolved through mediation, fostering peace and understanding in families and communities. 2,848 families families remained housed and stable, preventing homelessness through eviction prevention Stories from 2024 A Place to Belong: How VOAWW’s Community Centers Are Changing Lives Something was wrong. Almost a year ago, Kristi noticed she was having trouble hearing out of her right ear. What followed was ten months of uncertainty—six different doctors, one misdiagnosed cyst pressing on her auditory nerve, two MRIs and CT scans. And then, in April, 2024, her neurosurgeon delivered the real diagnosis: it wasn’t a cyst at all. It was a tumor. A rare, slow-growing ganglioglioma, heart-shaped and menacing. In September, Kristi underwent a four-hour surgery to remove it. 1.5 square inches of skull were taken from the back of her head, 24 stitches closed the seven-inch arc above her ear, and five grams of tumor were excised from her brain. Then came the real work—healing. It took just 29 days before Kristi was back at the Carl Gipson Center, moving, stretching, and lifting alongside her friends in Cora’s exercise class. "My neurosurgeon emphasized that doing Cora’s classes made my recovery easier and faster," Kristi says. But it wasn’t just the physical movement that brought her back—it was the people. "If it weren’t for my family and my friends here supporting me, it would’ve been a dark time." At Volunteers of America Western Washington (VOAWW), we believe that no one should have to face life’s challenges alone. That’s why our community centers exist—to be a place where people find strength, connection, and support. As Cory Armstrong Hoss, Executive Director of Senior Services, explains, "At VOA community centers, we offer a variety of programs for the physical, mental, and social well-being of seniors. From exercise classes to games like bridge and billiards, we create safe spaces where people can belong." For many, that sense of belonging is life-changing. The Carl Gipson Center serves not just seniors—those 50 and over—but also individuals with disabilities and refugees. Seniors today face real challenges. More than half of the people who visit our centers live alone, and the pandemic only deepened the struggles of isolation and loneliness. "We work every day to combat that by getting to know people, introducing them to each other, and fostering small, supportive communities," Cory explains. For Kristi, the Carl Gipson Center has been more than a place to workout—it’s been a lifeline. "I finally found my Washington friends at CGC," she says. Whether it’s exercise, an affordable meal, or a trip to the Ice Caves, the friendships and experiences she’s gained have made all the difference. At VOAWW, we see the difference these centers make every day. They provide not just programs but a community—a place to heal, to grow, and to belong. Faith, trust, and impact inspire donors to give—knowing their support creates a lasting change for our neighbors. Why Give? “We give to VOAWW because they were there to help my family and when we were having a hard time” “I was in a place where I needed help many years ago. I know how hared it is to free yourself from the lifestyle, drugs and homelessness.” “Giving back enables me to be a part of the work done for the community at Carl Gipson Center. This is a part of the values I hold being a Christ follower of living, loving, and leading like Jesus” “I chose to give because of the work VOAWW does and the communities you focus on. You guys live out Matthew 25 in real life so well and that's a true model of following the Lord. So, I'm happy to help out in any way I can!” “My family grew up using the local food pantry for our groceries. I am in a position to give back these days.” Did you know? 91¢ of every dollar donated goes directly to programs impacting our communities. Board of Directors Suzan Sturholm, Board Chair | Todd Brunner, Properties Board Chair | Chris McGinness, Finance & Audit Committee Chair | Stephen Zimmerman, Governance Committee Chair | Paul Butler | Aimee Do | Todd Henrichsen | Vicci Hilty | Mark Hulst | Bryan P. O'Connor | Lori Schlindwein | Amit Singh, Ph.D. | Brian Smith | Shannon Testa | Kirstin Tyner | Brenda White Leadership is not about being in charge. Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge. Leadership is not about being in charge. Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge. Leadership is not about being in charge. Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge. Leadership is not about being in charge. Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge. - Simon Sinek Leadership Brian Smith, President/CEO | Kristi Myers, Chief Operations Officer | Jennifer Nobiling, Chief Financial Officer | Levi Van Dyke, Chief Behavioral Health Officer | Jan Olsen, Executive Asst. & Board Secretary | Dixie Behn, VP of Infrastructure | Claire Danielson, VP of Finance | Chris Eck, VP of Programs | Kristin Ely, VP of Strategic Initiatives | Olga Fedorovski, VP of Human Resources | Jessica Moore, VP of Development | Kirk Pearson, VP of External Affairs | Steve Woodard, Ph.D., VP of Community Engagement REVENUE & SUPPORT $86,558,265 1.6 % Private Support | $1,379,443 (Individuals, Corporations, Organizations & Foundations) 19% Program & Other | $16,392,684 21.1 % In-Kind | $18,306,109 58.3% Public Support | $50,480,029 (Government Contracts & Grants) OPERATING EXPENSES $86,892,708 7.8 % Management / General | $6,783,479 90.8 % Programs & Services | $78,895,410 1.4 % Fundraising | $1,213,819 Financial data is based on FY24. Financial data in this report are preliminary and subject to change upon audit. More detailed financial reporting available upon request. Our Team in Action Coming Soon! BALLINGTON FLATS Our first affordable housing construction project. 42 subsidized units with 12 set aside specifically for homeless and low-income veterans. Anticipated completion: Spring, 2026. LYNNWOOD NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER Our 4th community resource center. 40,000 sq/f with multiple services. Anticipated to serve 20,000 annually. Anticipated completion: end of 2025. SKY VALLEY HAVEN A 6-bed, overnight emergency shelter for at-risk teens. Will also house day activities for the Sky Valley Youth Coalition. Anticipated completion: Late Spring, 2025. BACK TO TOP

Kristi Myers, CFRE Interim CEO & Chief Operations Officer 425-212-5314

Restore trust and repair relationships with our culturally rooted Restorative Practices. We support healing through open dialogue, accountability, and compassionate conflict resolution. Restorative Practices Mediation Training Workplace Services Restorative Practices Fair Housing Dispute Resolution Center / Restorative Practices Restorative Practices provide a healing approach to addressing conflict by focusing on repairing relationships rather than imposing punitive consequences. Rooted in cultural traditions, this philosophy emphasizes open communication, accountability, and compassion to strengthen relationships and build a more connected community. By ensuring that everyone feels heard, valued, and understood, Restorative Practices help mend harm, promote personal responsibility, and foster a sense of healing and reconciliation within communities. Restorative Justice Build accountability, communication, and healing with our Restorative Justice classes. Learn More Peer Mediation Teaching youth conflict resolution and communication skills to foster a positive school environment. Learn More Facilitated Circles Circles foster healing, trust, and connection through respectful, judgment-free sharing and deep listening. Learn More Restorative Conferencing Support healing and accountability through open dialogue between those impacted. Learn More Victim Offender Impact Competency Education (VOICE) Class AVAILABLE FOR YOUTH & ADULTS The VOICE class is a Restorative Practices program that guides participants through the process of reflection, accountability, and repair. It introduces the concept of restorative conferencing, encouraging individuals to recognize the harm they have caused and take personal responsibility for their actions. Through VOICE, participants explore meaningful ways to make amends with their family, community, and themselves. The course concludes with each student writing a thoughtful apology letter, outlining their accountability, acknowledging the impact of their actions, and committing to positive change. Conflict Resolution and Communication (CRC) Class AVAILABLE FOR YOUTH & ADULTS The CRC class equips students with the skills to understand, navigate, and resolve conflicts in a productive and respectful way. Through this course, individuals learn to identify the root causes of conflict, express their needs effectively, and actively listen to others. By reframing conflict as an opportunity for understanding and growth, participants gain a new perspective on its role in relationships and communities. CRC fosters constructive communication, helping individuals approach disagreements with confidence, empathy, and a focus on positive outcomes. Parent-Teen Communication Class AVAILABLE FOR YOUTH & ADULTS The Parent-Teen Communication class provides a foundation for understanding interpersonal conflict and strengthening family relationships. Through this course, parents and teens develop effective communication skills that foster healthy, productive, and resolution-focused conversations. By learning to navigate disagreements with clarity, empathy, and mutual respect, participants build stronger connections and create a more supportive and understanding family dynamic. Parent / Teen Mediation AVAILABLE FOR YOUTH Parent-Teen Mediation provides a structured and supportive space for families to navigate conflicts with the help of impartial mediators. This process encourages open, respectful, and productive conversations, allowing both parents and teens to express their perspectives and work toward solutions. Mediators do not take sides, give advice, or make decisions. Instead, they facilitate dialogue, promote understanding, and assist in creating agreements that address the needs and interests of everyone involved. Parent teen mediations are free when the teen initiates the opening of the case. Peer Mediation AVAILABLE FOR YOUTH The Peer Mediation Program is a peer-led initiative where professional trainers work with your students, equipping them with the skills to become peer mediators and handle their own conflicts. Through an 8-stage mediation process, students learn to facilitate open communication, promote understanding, and help their classmates reach mutually agreeable solutions. With guidance from advisors, this student-centered approach empowers youth to address issues like bullying, disagreements, and misunderstandings, fostering a positive school climate while building essential conflict resolution and social skills. Facilitated Circles Circles provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to share their thoughts, experiences, and perspectives. Rooted in Indigenous traditions, Circles encourage active listening, mutual respect, and open dialogue to promote healing and connection. By taking turns speaking and listening without judgment, participants build trust, empathy, and a sense of community, making Circles a powerful tool for processing challenges and strengthening relationships AVAILABLE FOR YOUTH & ADULTS Restorative Conferencing Restorative Conferencing is a facilitated conversation that brings together those who have been harmed and those responsible for causing harm. This process provides a structured and supportive space for open dialogue, accountability, and healing. The goal is to ensure that those harmed have an opportunity to be heard and made whole, while those responsible take personal accountability and actively work to repair the harm done. Questions? Get in touch! We would love to hear from you! If you have questions about our services, how to get started, or resources through our Restorative Practices, send us an email today. Contact Us! BACK TO TOP

Your online donation makes an impact in the lives of your neighbors in Everett, Marysville, Sultan, Arlington, and Snohomish County. Monetary Donation Your gift makes an impact Just $25 a month means that youth and teens can have access to food, friendship, and meaningful activities after school. $100 supports emergency utility assistance for a family in need. That means hot water for showers, a refrigerator for food, and washing machines for clean clothes. A monthly gift of $500 can keep a family from living in their car, so children have a bed to sleep in and a kitchen where they can eat prepared meals. Donate with PayPal Donate by mail We welcome your check payable to Volunteers of America Western Washington and mailed to: VOAWW Attn: Development PO Box 839 Everett, WA 98206-0839 View More Other ways to give

Claire Danielson Vice President of Finance/Controller 425-212-2721

An Affiliate of Old Friends Club Network. Old Friends Club offers friendship, activities, and support for people living with dementia while giving family caregivers time to rest and recharge in Everett and Lynnwood. Old Friends Club An Affiliate of Old Friends Club Network Locations EVERETT (Starting in September) Located in the Carl Gipson Center 3025 Lombard Ave, Everett, WA 98201 Tuesdays & Thursdays | 9:30am-2:30pm (excluding holidays) LYNNWOOD Located in the Lynnwood Neighborhood Center 19509 64th Ave W, Lynnwood, WA 98036 Mondays & Wednesdays | 9:30am-2:30pm (excluding holidays) Contact 425-232-6002 | ofccoordinator@voaww.org Serving adults with early-to-mid stage dementia Old Friends Club (the Club) is a place of friendship and belonging for people living with dementia—and a social respite program that provides family caregivers time for self-care. Daily activities include art, music, lunch, opportunities to build friendships, and more. Participants must be able to feed themselves, use the bathroom, walk independently, and consistently treat others with respect, without the assistance of caregiver or VOA staff or volunteer. Policies & Intake Form for Old Friends Club Program Policy Intake Form Payment Policy To Request An In-Take Appointment Fees and Payment Schedule Waitlist Complete the VOA Old Friends Club (OFC) In-Take Form and submit in-person or via email to the OFC Coordinator: ofccoordinator@voaww.org The Club’s fee is $800.00 for two days a week, per month per participant. VOA requires payment to be made via credit or debit card and Payment Authorization Form on file, and will collect payment on the 15th of the month for the following month. Participants commit to a minimum of three months. See VOA Old Friends Club policies for more information. To submit your participant’s name for a Club waitlist, email caregiver and participant contact information to ofccoordinator@voaww.org .

The Ministry Team responds to requests for prayer and offers comfort and spiritual guidance for others. Can we pray for you? Your request is a sacred trust and is kept confidential. We will also follow up with you by email to request updates so that we can adjust or change your request as your situation changes. Submit a Prayer Request For more than 120 years, Volunteers of America’s ministers have been praying with and for people throughout our community. Whatever your prayer need, finding peace of mind provides a foundation of strength to face any situation. Ministry Team Our ministry team responds to requests for prayer and offers comfort and spiritual guidance for VOAWW staff, clients, and community. They meet regularly to study the bible and actively seek ways to deepen their relationship with Christ. Jessica Moore VP of Development/ Lead Minister Jessica started with Volunteers of America Western Washington in 2016 and was commissioned as a minister in 2018. Working at VOAWW gives her the ability to be part of an organization that positively impacts the community and creates a ripple effect where hope and gratitude are felt everywhere. The best part of her role at VOAWW is to build relationships with our donors and shower them with gratitude. She regularly reads local news like The Herald to stay connected with the community and the Bible to stay connected to Christ. She loves to create, whether it’s putting together delicious meals, building Legos with her son, or working on crafts. Jessica believes in devoting time to self-care and finds painting by numbers and listening to a podcast supports her emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Jessica’s favorite quote, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” attributed to Mahatma Gandhi. As Lead Minister, she finds it aligns with a bible verse that resonates deeply: For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many. (Mark 10:45 NIV) Brenda Priest Executive Director, Personal Support Services Brenda’s favorite quote, “It’s never too late to be what you might have been,” led to her to push her to finally listen to a calling to become a minister, providing pastoral care to both clients and employees alike. Her path to VOA began in 2006 when a close friend described the amazing work and mission of the organization. She is able to bring some of the same qualities to her position that she admires in Mohandas ‘Mahatma’ Gandhi: simplicity, truthfulness, self-confidence and an empathetic nature. Brenda feels that her patience and ability to listen are her strengths, and she loves talking with those she serves – and serves with. When she is not caring for others, she holds fast to her own goals of one day perhaps traveling to Norway, skydiving, or completing a 100-miler. Dixie Behn VP of Infrastructure Brought to VOAWW from a background working with law enforcement and in chemical dependency programs, Dixie has worn many hats through the years, and is now the VP of Infrastructure. Being a part of life-changing work is a calling for Dixie, and she believes deeply in our mission because it targets struggles with addiction, homelessness, poverty, and mental health crisis. She has a lifelong relationship with Christ and says that she feels her best opportunity to make a difference in the community is through the Word of God. If she could meet one person, it would be legendary poet Maya Angelou who has inspired generations with her literary work, service to others and who remains one of the most influential women of her time. Her quote “people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” is close to her heart. Dixie is caring and compassionate, always looking for ways to make people feel seen and supported, so they can succeed at establishing a healthy, bright future. Eric Tagle Financial Specialist, Personal Support Services Eric’s drive for serving his community and colleagues with prayer and compassion called him to the ministry, where he seeks a path of personal growth in addition to advancing VOAWW as an organization. He has devoted 10 years to VOAWW, and his empathy and patience make a lasting impact in the Disability Services department where he currently serves as a Program Manager. During the times outside of this official capacity, he enjoys video chatting with his family and indulging his green thumb by tending to his many houseplants. Jennifer Shaw Greater Columbia Crisis Line Program Manager Jennifer was drawn to VOA almost 30 years ago, volunteering for the crisis line, but college derailed her plans just after completing the orientation. Then, while attending Trinity Lutheran College in Everett, she watched her fellow students intern with VOA. Now, coming full circle, she is the Greater Columbia Crisis Line Program Manager. She appreciates the far-reaching impacts of our programs and is blessed by being “a part of something that truly changes one life at a time.” Her greatest blessing is being a mother to six. Her daughter Alicen is one example of how her children are a deep source of inspiration and admiration. Alicen “has endured many hardships over her short life, yet she remains optimistic, gentle, kind, and ready for the next adventure… Just by showing up each and every day, [she reminds us] that the Lord is gracious, she trusts His path, and there is so much joy yet to be found in the world.” Jennifer’s position on the ministry team is an opportunity to exemplify Christ-like service to others, and faith in Jesus amid a life of struggle is the foundation that gives her a special way to connect and offer spiritual support. Shelene Richards 988 Program Coordinator Shelene lives “...a life of ministry and service to others as a teacher, social worker, therapist, counselor, mother, grandmother, and friend.” She was inspired to join the VOAWW team because of our broad range of social services and wraparound care from housing and food to crisis care and more. Anyone who meets Shelene will be immediately struck by her gentleness and dignity, much like her role model, Fred Rogers. When asked who she would meet if she could choose anyone past or present, it was Mr. Rogers that came to mind. He was one of her first examples of emotional support, and Shelene admires the way he “talked the talk and walked the walk.” She says that joining the ministry team was an “obvious” choice because of her deep faith and the desire to offer encouragement and care for those in need. Sophie Abwao Housing Services Manager Recently commissioned as a minister in 2022, Sophie answers the call of God by beginning each day with prayer, meditation, and scripture. She admires Mercy Kanda’s passion to be kingdom-minded and not let her experiences prevent her from being a servant of people, following that inspiration with compassion and empathy in her role in Housing Services, reaching out her hand to those in need day after day. When Sophie is not reading the Bible or keeping up with her kids and home, she dreams of eventually being able to see the beauty of Alaska or islands of Hawaii. Prayer Request Form

VOAWW aims to prevent homelessness by referrals to shelters, mediating landlord/tenant disputes, and finding connections to payment assistance. Housing & Shelter Everyone deserves a safe place to sleep. We support shelter and stability by offering quality resources, referrals, and mediation between landlords and tenants. Our Programs Our Housing programs include a wide variety of services to fit your needs. During winter, we offer Cold Weather Shelters from Nov 1-March 31, when temperatures are forecasted to be 34° or below. Check back on Nov 1 for more information. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions about our programs! IMPORTANT NOTICE: Stay safe! Learn how to protect yourself from scams here . Coordinated Entry Coordinated Entry is a process for individuals and families in Snohomish and Skagit Counties who are experiencing or at imminent risk of homelessness to access homelessness prevention services and resources. Applicants will be screened for eligibility, prioritization, and program matching for a more efficient and effective system to access appropriate programs. To find out if you qualify for Coordinated Entry, call 360-VOA-HELP or toll free 1-800-223-8145 , Monday through Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm and connect with a Referral Specialist. Rapid Rehousing Rapid Rehousing (“RRH”) is offered on a limited basis in coordination with Snohomish County and is subject to available funding. RRH provides short-term rental assistance to help people obtain housing quickly, increase self-sufficiency, and stay housed. Resources and services provided are typically tailored to the needs of the individual. Інформація Увага! Ми надаємо різноманітні сервіси для українських біженців у Центрі Карла Гіпсона щоп’ятниці. Починаючи з травня Welcome Center працюватиме за новим розкладом: з 10:00 до 12:30. З будь-якими запитаннями щодо наших програм і сервісів, будь ласка, звертайтеся за телефоном: 425-748-8779(залиште повідомлення) або електронною поштою ukrainianresettlement@voaww.org Зверніть увагу: наша програма обслуговує лише мешканців округу Снохоміш. Адреса центру: Центр Карла Гіпсона 3025 Lombard Ave Еверетт, штат Вашингтон 98201 Ukraine News Refugee Resettlement & Stabilization A welcome center and resources for refugees of Afghanistan and Ukraine seeking safety are available. VOA assists with housing, employment, spiritual care, culturally appropriate food and fellowship, and plans for meaningful integration in the community. QUESTIONS? (425) 748-8779 Important Notice: Protect Yourself from Scams At Volunteers of America Western Washington, we prioritize your safety and security. In order to protect yourself from potential scams that may falsely use our name or services, please be aware of the following: Volunteers of America Western Washington does not offer loans, or any financial advice or assistance including direct payments or offers of payments for a fee. We never require payment as a condition of our services. If you come across any communication claiming otherwise, use caution and do not engage. Scammers often use deceptive tactics to exploit vulnerable individuals. If you receive unsolicited offers, requests for payment, or any communication that seems suspicious, exercise caution. Never share personal or financial information with anyone you don’t know personally. If you believe you have been targeted by a scam or fraudulent activities using the Volunteers of America Western Washington name, we strongly encourage you to report it. You can contact your local law enforcement authorities or reach out to the Washington State Attorney General's office. At any time you wish to verify the legitimacy of any communication that appears to come from Volunteers of America Western Washington, we welcome you to get in touch. Our legitimate contact information is at the bottom of this web page. Your peace of mind is important to us, and we are committed to serving our community with trust. Remember to stay vigilant and informed, so you can defend against scams, deception, and fraud. Protect Yourself from Scams

Skagit County affordable housing in Burlington, WA for veterans, VASH vouchers, and low income families. A VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA WESTERN WASHINGTON PROPERTY VOAWW Home Location FAQs Get Involved Contact Us Affordable housing is a basic need that improves the long-term health and wellbeing of the community and the residents that call it home. A long-term solution Ballington Flats is a permanent housing solution for tenants who meet income eligibility. Tenants will be offered standard leases with annual opportunities to renew. An area of need Skagit County has the lowest vacancy rate in the Washington State, at below 1%. Ballington Flats will include 42 units aimed at addressing low-income households with designated units for veterans. Design The complex is designed as identical buildings with 1- and 2-bedroom floor plans, 3 units per floor. Each building is surrounded by green space. There will be a designated play area on the property and a community building that will feature a commons room and administrative offices. Floor Plans 1 Bedroom - Plan I 609 sq ft 1 Bedroom - Plan II 586 sq ft 2 Bedroom 894 sq ft Location Location 1720 E Rio Vista Ave Burlington, WA 98233 This site is 1.87 acres within a residential neighborhood and zoned to accommodate multi-family housing. Become a Service Partner We are still in the planning phases and interested in hearing from potential partner organizations who may be interested in providing services on- or off-site to tenants. If you’re a partner agency and would like more information about supporting the Ballington Flats project we'd love to hear from you! Email Us about a Partnership Volunteer Volunteers will be needed during various stages of the project for a wide range of needs. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit volunteer.voaww.org or email us! Email Us about Volunteering Questions about Ballington Flats? Send us a message. We are committed to making this project a success for tenants, neighbors and the Burlington community. Get in Touch! Back to Top Empowering individuals. Strengthening communities.

Explore Volunteers of America Western Washington’s annual reports from 2020 to today. See impact, financials, and how your support strengthens communities. Annual Reports 2025 View PDF View Online 2024 View PDF View Online 2023 View PDF View Online 2022 View PDF View Online 2021 View PDF 2020 PDF Only View Online VOAWW 990 Forms FY 2023 FY 2022

Skagit County PIT Count Partnership & Sponsor Inquiry Form First name(Required) Last name(Required) Company name Email(Required) Phone I'd like to learn more about: Becoming a Partner Sponsoring the Skagit County PIT Count Briefly explain the kind of involvement you or your company would like to have:(Required) Submit

DONATE 2021 ANNUAL REPORT Steve Corsi, Psy. D. President/CEO Welcome, As we enter into recovery from the COVID pandemic, Volunteers of America Western Washington looks to our community for guidance on how to serve them in meaningful ways, for it is those who are in need that guide our mission and direct our purpose. When we paused to listen, we heard numerous times that the gap was closing. Hope was just around the corner. Stability was in sight. In response, our Hunger Prevention team responded by cutting the ribbon on a 60,000-sf food distribution center in Arlington supporting our food bank coalition partners in moving 5.4M pounds of food into homes where it’s needed most. Our Behavioral Health team responded by expanding to include tribal crisis services for our Indigenous friends and neighbors and began preparation to launch 988, a state-of-the art, one-stop, suicide prevention hotline. Our Early Childhood team, with their ECEAP low-income preschools and wraparound services, responded by opening 20 additional slots in an underserved area to guide young learners in a path of readiness for kindergarten and their parents toward self-sufficiency. The Housing Services team, long in hibernation, rapidly reassembled to respond to need and fully mobilized in July by expanding their team ten-fold to connect residents to $54M in rental assistance benefits. Our Dispute Resolution Centers responded by introducing the Eviction Resolution Pilot Program (ERPP), facilitating tenant-landlord agreements to prevent evictions. Our senior programs, youth coalition, and community resource centers (CRCs) responded by providing individuals a safe place to be seen, heard, and taken care of. These are a few of the meaningful ways our VOAWW family has cared for, advocated for, and delivered services to over 315,000 people in Washington over the past year. I have personally witnessed people with tears running down their face as our team put boxes of food in their car who have told us, “I never thought I would have to go to a food bank,” or others who have said, “If VOA had not been there for us, my family would be homeless right now,” or, “I made the call and she talked me into staying alive one day at a time, and it’s been years now.” I am inspired by the way our staff and volunteers show up and respond each day, in ways big and small across eight very diverse service programs to create a foundation of hope where a life of stability is possible. Please join me in revisiting 2021, where I hope that you also find inspiration in the stories and achievements we are honored to share. In His service, Steve Corsi, Psy.D. Suzan Sturholm Board of Directors Chair IN PURSUIT OF STABILITY As the COVID-19 pandemic moves from global crisis to recovery, so does the physical, mental, and social health of the local communities we serve. Last year, rising vaccination rates literally opened doors to opportunities for employment, education, fellowship, and revitalizing a weary economy. Though moving in the right direction, progress is slow, and stability remains elusive for many. Volunteers of America Western Washington is devoted to supporting those in pursuit of healthy, independent lives. With 8 service areas, 483 employees, and 247 active volunteers, we carry on VOA founder Ballington Booth's mission to "go wherever we are needed and do whatever comes to hand." We have continued to expand our services, pivot our response to areas of critical concern , and strengthen our foundation of providing for basic needs like food, shelter, wellness, education, and a sense of belonging. Here is a look back at how we answered the call for our most vulnerable neighbors in 2021. VOA opened a new 55,000 sf food distribution center in Arlington in October 2021. This expansion provided a more efficient way to move out 5.4M pounds of food to the communities we serve, representing 4.5M meals in homes where it is needed most. FOOD Housing Services mobilized in July and grew from a team of 8 to 84 housing navigators. Rapid Rehousing launched in 2021 to help households to quickly exit homelessness and return to permanent housing by supporting financial independence. HOUSING A total of 270 children were served through the Early Childhood Education & Assistance Program (ECEAP) preschool in Sultan, Monroe, and Everett. PRESCHOOL Across Snohomish, Skagit, Whatcom, Island, and San Juan counties, we fielded 32,342 calls for referrals to resources to provide assistance in a time of need. This amounts to more than 130 calls every business day. NORTHSOUND 2-1-1 In Arlington, we disbursed $4.85M in direct assistance to aid in housing, utilities, transportation, and childcare. The Lake Stevens Community Resource Center opened in January 2021 and provided 3,055 individuals with nearly $2.1M in subsidies. In Sky Valley, more than $1 million in direct assistance and 276,152 pounds of food were distributed. COMMUNITY RESOURCES East Snohomish County hosted two cold weather shelters for nights when the temperature fell to 3 4º or below. Safe haven was given to 81 individuals in Monroe and 63 in Snohomish. A total of 909 bed nights were provided during the season. Maud's House emergency shelter housed 21 mothers and 27 children. SHELTER Last year, in partnership with the City of Everett, VOA took over the operations for the Carl Gipson Center on a 14-year lease that will connect seniors and community members to social interaction and physical fitness. In Sultan, the Sky Valley Elderly Nutrition Delivery (S.E.N.D.) program provided 42 homebound seniors with 14,452 prepared meals delivered to their door, all year long. LIVING WELL Total chats received from imhurting.org, our 24-hour crisis chat support, exceeded 12,000 last year. This is in addition to the 105,24 1 calls that were made to across four staffed crisis lines. The Washington Indian Behavioral Health Hub was launched, serving as a central access point for those affiliated with the Native American and Alaskan Native Communities, from helping navigate Joel's law to providing culturally appropriate resources to overcome barriers to assistance. BEHAVIORAL HEALTH VOA operated 31 houses to provide in-home care to 92 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Direct Service Professionals spent 428,900 hours to help clients develop skills for healthy, meaningful lives. PERSONAL SUPPORT DISPUTE RESOLUTION CENTERS LEAD THE WAY COVID-19 changed the way of life for so many. Suddenly, the guarantee of a job turned to uncertainty. A sense of home and safety began to crumble without access to reliable income. In 2021, the pandemic was clinging to its second year, and as eviction moratorium protections began expiring, The State of Washington recognized that gaps remained. To help families avoid homelessness and bankruptcy, state lawmakers looked to impartial mediators to help bridge the financial divide before eviction cases made their way to court and launched the Eviction Resolution Pilot Program (ERPP). Volunteers of America Western Washington's Dispute Resolution Center was founded in 1982 as the Rental Housing Mediation Service. In 1986, it became the first dispute resolution center in the State of Washington. Uniquely qualified for this large-scale endeavor with more than 30 years of preparation behind us, we rolled out the ERPP program in July 2021 and became the first of its kind in the nation. And, because participation in the ERPP is voluntary, free, and confidential, it empowers renters who need support to champion their independence and take ownership of their future. Likewise, landlords experiencing ongoing challenges could also seek help, avoiding an uncertain fate. every number is a home in need of hope. 1,118 individuals directly served 97.2% tenancies sustained 716 settlements reached 30.37% living 300% or more below federal poverty level Combined with this program, Housing Navigators connected 6,566 households to $57.1M in rental assistance. Housing Services and the Dispute Resolution Centers worked together to provide a path to hope and stability in a time of critical need. From scaling up a team ten-fold to rolling out the nation's first-ever program to prevent an eviction crisis, Volunteers of America Western Washington paved a way through unpredictability for thousands who had nowhere else to turn. "Stability is peace that flows from the knowledge that tomorrow will not be desperate or trying. From early childhood to old age, VOAWW reminds people that stability is just ahead." - Aaron O., Development Team Edelia Edelia Mendoza* (not pictured) is a single mom. A college student pursuing a nursing degree. An immigrant. A survivor of domestic abuse. Edelia Mendoza is persistent. In 2020, a new job at Boeing as an electrician suddenly evaporated. “In June, there were rumors of layoffs because of COVID,” she remembers. “It was in order of seniority, and I was one of the newest employees, so they let me go.” That was in July. By September, she was falling behind on rent. Unemployment benefits were not enough to support herself and her son Mateo. “I was visiting the food banks to get meat and vegetables, so I could cook. But there’s still the car, phone, rent, insurance, and everything else that needs to be paid.” And the need was dire. Edelia faithfully made rent payments of what she could afford, but the partial amounts couldn’t prevent the balance from ballooning to more than $13,000 as the pandemic continued into its second year. Luckily, the staff at the HNN Communities property where Edelia lived were compassionate and knowledgeable about residents in similar circumstances. They helped her connect to Volunteers of America through 2-1-1. She worked closely with her housing navigator and learned she qualified for rental assistance, giving her the freedom to stay enrolled in school while being at home to care for Mateo as he attended school remotely. Edelia is now caught up on her rent. She is still in school and looks forward to a career as an RN. A career with a future, “so this doesn’t happen again.” Meanwhile, she drives for Uber part-time and was just offered her job back by Boeing. The other side of stability is in sight, and VOA was there to fill in the gaps to reach it. *All names have been changed to protect confidentiality. FINANCIAL SUMMARY View in PDF <1% Program & Other $748,686 1.7% Private Support $1,659,774 (Individuals, Corporations, Organizations & Foundations) In-Kind $11,951,264 12% 85.6% Public Support $85,407,646 (Government Contracts & Grants) Total Support & Revenue $99,767,370 >1% Fundraising $792,802 93.9% Programs & Services $93,943,685 Promoting Self-Sufficiency $79,692,850 Fostering Independence $11,410,849 Encouraging Positive Development $2,839,986 5.3% Management / General $5,308,189 Total Expenses $100,044,676 Ellie & Dixie Ellie the potato puller. Ellie the Christmas Elf. Ellie the recipient of the Presidential Volunteer Service Award for the last nine years running. Ellie Behn grew up in the halls of VOA. She has volunteered with us since the age of four, when her mom, Dixie, began work here more than twelve years ago. Dixie says that without VOA, Ellie wouldn’t love service as much as she does. Ellie admits, “Asking me my favorite part of volunteering is like asking about a favorite child. But pulling potatoes was probably the most fun I’ve had.” Then, turning to her mom, “When can we do that again?” "That day was spent pulling potatoes and chasing voles,” Dixie says with a smirk. “She had a blast.” Both have spent their lives serving others, whether as a vocation or a volunteer. Dixie’s jobs in the court system, adult probation, and emergency dispatching often saw her helping the same people time and again, most of whom were struggling with chemical dependency and mental health. After ten years, her realization that these struggles “...were really a basic needs issue. Basic needs weren’t being met. I knew I had to be in a line of work that targeted the root cause of so much suffering.” After managing a drug and alcohol treatment facility in Everett for 10 years, everything suddenly changed when the facility closed. Without an income, Dixie sought help from VOA for rent and utilities. “It was about two months in when my case manager told me they were hiring for a receptionist. It was only ten dollars an hour, but it was something. And I knew I could make a difference.” She extended that belief to her children, repeating her mantra that one hour of service can change a life. With Ellie in tow, Dixie has changed positions throughout her tenure, each with progressive responsibility. Over those years, Ellie has volunteered in myriad ways from the Stuff a Bus event to the Meaningful Day Program to an annual tradition of acting as the VOA Christmas Elf. Dixie now serves as the Director of Property Management, while Ellie is entering her Senior year of high school with sights set on the University of Washington for a degree in clinical psychology, so she can return to VOA in our crisis services. Dixie says the future of VOA is full of opportunity. “With our leadership, the amount of ideas, the expansion, we are finding more ways to help and continue to grow. Too many still don’t know who we are, but I see so much possibility to reach more outlying communities and spread the mission.” For those who ask what our organization is about, she tries to offer a concise way to describe it. “I used to say, ‘We are a social services agency that assists the community through food banks, ECEAP preschool, dispute resolution, and go on to list everything we do. Now I say, ‘Wanna know what we’re about? Come volunteer with us.’” Chimes in Ellie, “We aren’t just a food bank.” Dixie and Ellie Behn have given of their time to VOA, Lake Stevens, and other Snohomish County communities to make them better places for having served. Their story was featured as part of 2021's "I am VOA" campaign. PO Box 839 Everett, WA 98206-0839 info@voaww.org 425.259.3192 Financial data in this report are preliminary and subject to change upon audit. More detailed financial reporting available upon request.