A former motel in Reno has been fully renovated and reopened as Hi-Way 40 — 28 units of permanent supportive housing for individuals experiencing homelessness. Local news took notice of this milestone for our community.
Our 2026 Voices of Hope fundraiser brought Sacramento together to shine a light on homelessness, recovery, and the power of community. We’re proud to share that local news outlets took notice — covering both the lead-up to the event and the meaningful stories shared on the day itself.
Sierra Manor is part of a groundbreaking experiment connecting our residents with college students across the country — proving that meaningful connection has no age limit.
Jade laughs when she describes her life before Open Arms as “wild”—but not the good kind of wild. “There was no consistency, no peace. I was lonely as hell.” Years of ping-ponging between the Bay Area and Florida, dealing with messy family stuff, losing people she loved, struggling with substances—it all came to a head. She had two choices: keep fighting everything or learn to let go. “I picked surrender. I had to trust that I’d be okay.” But surrender didn’t make the hard parts disappear. Jade had to say goodbye to people who couldn’t accept her as a trans…
VOA has been selected by Washoe County to oversee operations at the Our Place shelter.
Discover how our work is changing lives in this Sacramento Bee “Book of Dreams” feature.
Northern California MLK 365: 43rd Annual March for the Dream | A four-mile march celebrating King’s life and legacy. More details HERE 7th Annual MLK, Jr. Day March and Family Celebration | “Attaining the Beloved Community”, food vendors, and community booths. Register HERE. 6th Annual MLK Day of Service and Celebration | This year we will be hosting a blood drive on-site at the School of Law on MLK Day. Additionally, we are organizing a donation drive for Umoja International Academy in East Sacramento. More details HERE Additional events in Northern California: More details HERE Northern Nevada 39th Annual Interfaith…
Dedra Russell’s 30-year journey with VOA is a testament to resilience, compassion, and the power of second chances. Her story began as a young mother in the Options Program for women and children. While participating, she gave birth to her son, Brandon, one of the program’s first babies. “They made me feel like family,” Dedra recalls, cherishing the support and kindness shown by the staff. Inspired to give back, Dedra joined VOA in 1993 as support staff, starting a career defined by her passion for helping others. Over the years, she advanced through roles like children’s services coordinator and case…
We are excited to share that our organization has been featured in the latest issue of Comstock’s Magazine!
The Village on Sage Street in Reno has expanded its affordable housing capacity by nearly 50%, adding 96 new single-occupancy units to its existing 216.