Meet Kadeshia: In the fall of 2024, Tonek McDowell, a client in VOA Illinois’ Rapid Rehousing program passed away suddenly. Her death came as a shock to her family, friends, and staff. Tonek left behind two children: Kadeshia, 26, and Marshawn, 17. Kadeshia had long played a central role in the family, helping care for Marshawn, who has a developmental disability. After their mother’s passing, their grandmother, Tonta, contacted VOA Illinois and it became clear that housing stability for the children was a major concern.  The team worked quickly with supervisors and program managers to find options. Tonek had been…

Meet Mr. Burnett: Michael Burnett is a Navy Veteran who places great importance on family and community. Mr. Burnett joined the VOA Illinois family in January of 2024 when he moved into Hope Manor I. In September of 2024, he was referred to the SPACES program and since then, he regularly attends and participates in weekly peer support meetings, one on one meetings, and group support meetings. During these support meetings, he works hard to honestly and openly discuss family related issues, financial concerns, and mental health, amongst many other topics. He also enjoys and regularly participates in the weekly…

Meet Hal: At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hal chose to self-isolate due to his high risk of severe illness. In an attempt to connect with him, staff began accompanying him on weekly grocery trips, using the time to talk before, during, and after shopping. Early conversations were filled with negativity, frustration, and fear, often reflecting his anger and resentment. Gradually, his outlook began to shift. Over time, he became more understanding, patient, and appreciative of those around him. He eventually shared that while he valued the practical help, it’s the companionship that meant the most, bringing healing to…

Meet John: After his 20-year marriage sadly ended in divorce, Veteran John found himself without a home, and living in his car with his beloved dog Ms. Abigail. Seeking help, he turned to the VA and was referred to VOA Illinois’ transitional housing for Veterans experiencing homelessness; Hope Hall. John came to Hope Hall with an open mind, and he embraced every opportunity for change. In just four months, he’s participated in therapy, secured a job through the VA, and is actively pursuing permanent housing. John’s journey also includes spiritual growth, joining a nearby church where he was recently baptized….

Meet Louis: When Louis entered into our Housing is Recovery program, he was struggling with unemployment, homelessness, substance use, and his mental and physical health. Because of various health conditions, he had lost his job as a carpenter. Not being able to work caused Louis to begin struggling with his mental health, and he even began having suicidal ideations. When Louis found VOA Illinois, he was eager to get back on his feet. He participated in group therapy sessions, met with his service and housing coordinators weekly, and continues to take his medication. In November, Louis was able to move…

Meet Bill & Kelly! Bill and Kelly live at Balsam Terrace, one of our properties for the elderly and adults with disabilities. They have been married for 19 years, and have built a life rooted in love, resilience, and mutual care. Kelly, a gentle and thoughtful soul, has lived with seizures since she was a child. Shockingly, she didn’t even know about her condition until she was 14, having been prescribed seizure medication since age 2 without explanation from her all-hearing family. Life’s hardships continued to test her resolve. In 2002, her mother was diagnosed with cancer and passed away…

Hope Hall has been home to many Veterans, and a place of solace, hope, and support for nearly a decade. Hope Hall is a sanctuary where Veterans find understanding and a path forward from the difficult challenges they may be facing in their lives. The team at Hope Hall isn’t just there to provide basic care; they go above and beyond, ensuring that each resident feels valued and supported on their journey to recovery. One of the ways Hope Hall fosters this sense of community and healing is through their monthly outings, designed to bring joy and normalcy back into…

Dan came to VOA Illinois earlier this year when he was connected to our SPACES team (Suicide Prevention & Community Education Services). Dan was connected to a peer support specialist because he was experiencing depression and anxiety and was at risk of suicide. Our SPACES team found out Dan’s depression and anxiety were being exacerbated by his housing. Dan was going through many trials with his landlord. Dan reported his landlord was behaving in a hostile manner; both in words and demeanor, and his landlord was failing to keep his home safe and sanitary. Dan tried to connect with local…

Deanna and her family came to VOA Illinois’ Rapid-Rehousing program in September of 2023 during a period of housing instability. When we met Deanna, she was staying in a shelter with her partner and her two children, and was about to step away from work in preparation for the birth of her next child. At that time, Deanna told us about her ambitions to enter the culinary world and build her career as a chef in order to better support her family. Despite their situation, Deanna and her partner Santiyon were positive and motivated about their future. Our Rapid Rehousing…

Latrice was the very first person to enter our Housing is Recovery program, serving individuals at high-risk of homelessness or institutionalization with the support they need in order to lead independent, productive, healthy lives. Latrice has shown resilience, strength, and perseverance throughout her time in the Housing is Recovery program thus far. Latrice is a single mother, with a soon-to-be 13 year old son. Latrice was a victim of domestic violence, and largely depended on the support of her sister and mother for the past two years. Her journey took an arduous turn when she was in a serious car…