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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
.

 

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. 

 

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.

 

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.

 

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 2002
continues to help where the help is needed
.

 


Volunteers of America Archive
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Gospel Mission - 1918
Denver, Colorado

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Industrial Store - 1929
Denver, Colorado

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Fresh Air Camp
Lookout Mountain

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Brandon Guest Home - 1932
Denver, Colorado


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Lucile Ball with Santa 1964



2660 Larimer Street · Denver, Colorado ·  80205 · 303-297-0408