Formerly Homeless Find Stability, Education and Job Training at Volunteers of America Mather Community Campus

In response to the County of Sacramento Initiatives to Reduce Homelessness presented to the Sacramento County's Board of Supervisors today; Volunteers of America Northern California and Northern Nevada invite the media to meet a client and leadership of the Volunteers of America Mather Community Campus Employment Program.

Having a roof over one's head is only a first step in going from crisis to stability. The other and often more critical step is employment in order for the individual or family to maintain stable housing, and is absolutely essential to sustaining long term success for those who have experienced homelessness. Meet and hear firsthand how the Volunteers of America program has aided those that were formerly homeless. Student Michelle Evangelist, who is now thriving in the Mather Community Campus residential and employment program, will share her experiences and her journey.

After years of homelessness, substance abuse, incarceration and other issues the MCC clients face, finding and maintaining employment can feel daunting. Volunteers of America's programs and services help clients overcome their barriers to gaining employment, through skills workshops, resume help, mock interviews and job placement services. Additionally case managers work with clients one-on-one to help develop skills that will help clients navigate the workplace, overcome challenges, and maintain employment for years to come. By helping clients attain and maintain employment, Volunteers of America is helping to change the trajectory of multigenerational poverty. Individuals, as well as the children raised by self-reliant, stably employed and housed families; have a positive model upon which to build their futures.

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Mather Community Campus (MCC) provides housing and employment services to homeless individuals and families working toward self-sufficiency. Mather Community Campus focuses on helping formerly homeless individuals and families rebuild their lives through intensive employment and rapid housing services. The residential nine month program provides transitional housing, case management, employment and life-skills workshops, educational and job referrals

Founded locally in 1911, the Northern California & Northern Nevada office of Volunteers of America is one of the largest providers of social services in the region, operating more than 52 programs including: homeless services and emergency shelters; employment readiness and job development; substance abuse treatment and recovery services; senior services; youth services; transitional housing; permanent supportive housing; and veterans services. In fact, Volunteers of America provides shelter or housing to nearly 1,900 men, women and children every night in the Greater Sacramento area. www.VOA-NCNN.org

MEDIA ADVISORY – INTERVIEW & PHOTO OPPORTUNITY

WHEN TUES.MARCH 21ST 1 P.M – 6 P.M. BY APPOINTMENT (ADDITIONAL DAY/ TIME CAN BE SCHEDULED)