Faces of VOA Illinois

Meet Jack: Jack is a 58-year-old Army Veteran who spent many years as a resident of Hope Manor II, where he lived with his emotional support dog, Scout. With the guidance of our Program Services team, Jack created a plan to save money and successfully navigate the home‑buying process. Through persistence and determination, he achieved his long‑time dream of purchasing a home where he could settle down with Scout. Jack’s accomplishments didn’t stop there. While living at Hope Manor II, he also pursued his education in the medical field, completing medical school and earning his Master of Science in Nursing….

Meet Ethan: Ethan is a Veteran who moved into Hope Manor I after experiencing homelessness, carrying with him both the weight of instability and the hope for something better. For some time, finding permanent housing felt out of reach, despite his desire to rebuild his life. Recently, that changed. Ethan was awarded a HUD-VASH voucher, opening the door to stable housing and the possibility of a place he can finally call home. Ethan’s progress over the past few months has been nothing short of remarkable. When he first entered the program, he was guarded and hesitant to engage in services…

Meet Justin: When Justin first walked the halls of North Lawndale College Prep as a freshman, he carried a storm with him. He was angry, pulled into negativity in his community, and often clashed with those around him, including peers and school staff. Then he met the VOA Illinois team. It took time for Justin to understand that he didn’t need to push back, and that there were people he could trust who genuinely had his best interests at heart. After nearly two years of consistent support, effort, and relationship-building, Justin experienced a breakthrough during his junior year. The staff…

Meet Annette: Annette, a U.S. Veteran and mother of five, was referred to our Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program during an incredibly vulnerable moment in her life. She had just given birth to a baby with Down syndrome and was staying at the hospital while her newborn underwent surgery. Despite the urgency and emotional weight of her situation, the SSVF team was able to respond with speed and compassion. Within just 90 minutes of connecting with one of our Housing Coordinators, a safe and stable 3-bedroom apartment was secured for Annette and her children. By the very next…

Meet Sierra: In the spring of 2023, Sierra bravely fled a dangerous domestic environment with her son Isaiah and found temporary refuge in a Chicago shelter, feeling alone and hopeless. But she was not alone. Entering into our Rapid Rehousing program, she was quickly housed with her son, eagerly engaged in our employment services, whilst working tirelessly in several part-time jobs to provide for her family. Life threw a curveball when Sierra faced a workplace injury, resulting in the loss of an eye, exacerbating her PTSD and emotional trauma. Yet, Sierra demonstrated incredible strength, continually seeking better opportunities for herself…

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…