“Go wherever we are needed and do whatever comes to hand.”
– Maud Booth, Co-Founder of Volunteers of America
13 Powerful Milestones in a 130-Year Journey of Caring
For more than 130 years, Volunteers of America Michigan has stood beside people during moments of hardship, change, and rebuilding. This timeline highlights the milestones that shaped our work and reflects the steady commitment of the donors, volunteers, and community partners who have walked with us through every era.
Part 1 — 1896: Our Beginning
In 1896, VOA Michigan opened its first network of community posts. Within the first year, ten posts were operating across the state. Safe shelter, meals, and support were available every night for people with nowhere else to turn. That foundation of care continues to guide our work today.
Part 2 — 1898: Community in Hard Times
Only two years later, during an extremely harsh winter, the Grand Rapids post served holiday meals to nearly 1,000 people. This early act of generosity showed what it means to meet people with compassion during difficult seasons.
Part 3 — 1921: Putting Michigan Back to Work
With statewide unemployment nearing 23 percent, VOA Michigan opened an employment bureau in Detroit. More than 3,000 people secured jobs through this effort. Access to steady work helped individuals reclaim stability, pride, and direction.
Part 4 — 1938: Relief in the Great Depression
In the midst of the Great Depression, VOA Michigan provided 400,000 meals, clothing for 12,000 children, and 800 holiday baskets delivered to seniors and people unable to leave their homes. Community support ensured that thousands of families stayed nourished and connected at a time when hope was difficult to hold.
Part 5 — 1943: Supporting the War Effort
During World War II, VOA Michigan coordinated salvage collection drives that gathered more than 5.6 million pounds of material to support the war effort. We also provided housing and childcare for defense workers and offered meals and shelter to service members on leave.
Part 6 — 1964: Our First Thrift Store
VOA Michigan opened its first thrift store in Detroit in 1964. Donated goods provided affordable essentials to the community, and store revenue began supporting expanding social service programs. This model still strengthens our work today.
Part 7 — 1965–1977: Clothing Drives That Moved a State
Throughout these years, VOA Michigan coordinated large clothing drives that changed lives. In 1965, volunteers collected 150 tons of clothing that supported 2,800 children. In 1977, a partnership with Detroit schools resulted in 145,000 pounds of donated items for families in need. These efforts helped thousands move forward with dignity.
Part 8 — 1994: A New Chapter in Housing
In 1994, VOA Michigan secured its first 75 HUD-supported housing units for seniors in Detroit. This marked the beginning of a housing portfolio that now provides safe, stable homes to seniors, veterans, families, and individuals across the state.
Part 9 — 1998: A Statewide Mission
In 1998, Volunteers of America Michigan officially formed through a statewide merger, uniting local efforts under one coordinated mission. This consolidation strengthened our ability to respond to communities across the entire state. While part of a national network, our focus remains entirely on Michigan—every dollar raised here stays here, serving the communities we call home.
Part 10 — Early 2000s: Thrift Stores Build Momentum
In the early 2000s, VOA Michigan consolidated thrift operations into two major Lansing locations, creating efficient hubs that could serve more people. This strategic shift strengthened how we sustained our mission while meeting community needs. Today, our seven thrift stores have diverted over 20 million pounds from landfills while providing affordable essentials to thousands of Michigan families.
Part 11 — (2000-2001): Veterans Find a Path Home
VOA Michigan expanded veteran services with new transitional housing and a dedicated support center. These programs offered more than shelter—they provided case management, employment assistance, and connection to the community resources veterans needed to rebuild stability. Since then, thousands of veterans have found purpose and lasting support through these services.
Part 12 — 2009: Operation Backpack® Takes Flight
VOA Michigan launched Operation Backpack, an annual drive to ensure homeless and at-risk students start each school year with supplies for success. The program has since provided thousands of Michigan children with backpacks, school supplies, and hope for their education.
2026: Writing the Next Chapter Together
As we celebrate 130 years, we’re preparing for what comes next. In 2026, groundbreaking will begin on expanded housing at The Booth Community, creating even more opportunities for Michigan families to find stability and hope. This milestone reflects the continued trust and generosity of supporters who believe in the mission we share.
Join Us for the Next Chapter
Your generosity has shaped every chapter of our history. You can help shape the next one by participating in the 13 for 130 Challenge or by making a gift that supports the programs that carry Michigan families through difficult moments.