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Over one hundred years ago,
a handful of inspired individuals began a journey that continues
today. This journey brought them to the extremes of poverty, into the world of the abused, the destitute, the hungry, in to a world
that lacked both material and spiritual comfort. These dedicated
individuals, known as the Volunteers
of America, rolled up their
sleeves and created
shelter for homeless women and children and
served meals
throughout the year so that no one would hunger.
Brandon Guest Home 1932
2804 Champa Denver, Colorado
A shelter for homeless women and children |
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In 1896, under the guidance of Volunteers
of America
co-founders Maud and Ballington Booth, the VOA
Colorado Branch was founded with its first programs
in Boulder,
Leadville, Pueblo and, soon after, Denver.
By the turn of the
century VOA soup kitchens fed the hungry and sleeping space was provided for the
homeless.
Industrial Store, Denver 1929
Supplied clothing, food, spiritual guidance and
emergency
assistance for homeless men. |
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Needy children were treated to
festivities on each holiday and job opportunities were created
for the unemployed.
Fresh Air Camps located on
Lookout Mountain
for inner city children. |
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As the nation moved into the 20th century,
so did the Volunteers of America. Programs addressing the needs
of an aging population were started, including the Meals on
Wheels Program. Group homes, transitional living programs and
shelters for battered women and their children were also
established.
Volunteers of
America supplies emergency
services to the aging and homeless. |
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This year, more than 6,200 dedicated
volunteers
helped VOA staff provide critical and
life-saving
services to over 370,000 men, women, and children throughout
Colorado - doing whatever it takes to
renew the spirits of people
in need.
Volunteers of America in 2005
continues to help where the help is needed. |
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Volunteers of America Archive
Click on a picture for a larger view.
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Gospel Mission - 1918
Denver, Colorado |
Industrial Store - 1929
Denver, Colorado |
Fresh Air Camp
Lookout Mountain |
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Brandon Guest Home - 1932
Denver, Colorado
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Lucile Ball with Santa 1964
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Maud Booth
Co-founder
Ballington Booth
Co-founder
Volunteers of America
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