Grant Writer
“Knowing that my work directly impacts programs at Volunteers of America Michigan motivates me every day. It’s an honor to be part of the participants’ journey toward stability and success.”
Claudia King, Grant Writer
What is your name? Claudia King
What is your position with VOAMI? Grant Writer
What brought you to VOAMI? I have a background in social work, and I’ve always been passionate about supporting vulnerable populations. Previously, I worked with the Armed Services YMCA on a program called Operation Hero, which helped children whose parents were deployed by providing social-emotional activities. This experience fueled my desire to serve military families. My husband is currently in the Army Reserves, which further deepened my commitment to veteran-related programs. The opportunity to combine my passion for social welfare with my dedication to serving veterans made VOAMI the perfect place for me to contribute.
How long have you worked with VOAMI? I joined VOAMI in 2022 as a Compliance Specialist for the SERV (Suicide Prevention Engagement and Referral for Veterans) program. In 2024, I transitioned to the Development and Communications team as the organization’s Grant Writer.
What is your biggest takeaway from your job? The most impactful takeaway from my job is understanding how essential it is to secure funding through grants to provide comprehensive, tailored support for our programs, including addressing veteran housing barriers, senior housing needs, and other critical programs for families in the communities we serve. By writing grants for Volunteers of America Michigan, I help ensure that the resources needed to support these areas are available, ultimately helping them regain stability, independence, and dignity.
What does it mean to you to be helping others? Knowing that my work directly impacts programs at Volunteers of America Michigan motivates me every day. It’s an honor to be part of the participants’ journey toward stability and success.
What is your biggest challenge? My biggest professional challenge in my current role as a Grant Writer is ensuring that our programs receive the necessary funding to sustain and grow. This requires thorough research and a deep understanding of the needs of all the communities we serve, including veterans, seniors, and all other participants. Balancing these diverse needs with the expectations of funding agencies, while consistently demonstrating the impact of our programs, is key to securing the support we need.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given? “Focus on what you can control and let go of the rest.” My mother noticed how hard I was on myself when I didn’t reach certain goals or when things didn’t turn out the way I had planned. Instead of trying to control every outcome, I began focusing on my mindset and effort, which brought me so much more peace.
What is your favorite color? Pink or Yellow. I love bright colors.
Where is your ideal vacation spot? Hawaii – I love the peace and natural beauty of the islands.
What is your favorite book? Frieda McFadden is my favorite author right now because of her ability to craft gripping psychological suspense stories. Her well-developed characters draw me in, making her books a quick read, which is essential for my busy schedule. I never seem to see her twist coming at the end.
What fills your time outside of work? Outside of work, I love exploring Michigan, especially in the summer. I’m from Virginia, but this state has so many hidden gems to discover. Over the past two summers, I’ve visited the Silver Lake Sand Dunes and gone RV camping with my family. We also drove along the dunes by water. There’s truly nothing like a Michigan summer.
Who is your hero? Why? My hero is my grandmother. She taught me the importance of kindness, perseverance, and always striving to help others. I would watch her talk to people after church services and in the community, offering guidance and support. People really looked up to her for her wisdom. I also learned how to sew from her. She had so many skills, and her ability to balance them all while helping others has always inspired me.
