Mission

Established in 1987, Volunteer Ministry Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency whose mission is to prevent and end homelessness, through compassion, accountability, and results. We are an inclusive and affirming culture that recognizes the value and humanity of each person. Our ultimate priority is for every neighbor to achieve and sustain housing. AT VMC we choose not to focus on managing homelessness but rather preventing or ending it. Programs at VMC serve one or more of three purposes: engagement of those in need of services, achievement of housing, and sustainment of housing. Below are brief descriptions of our six core programs VMC has in order to achieve our purpose and mission: - The Bush Family Refuge is a walk-in navigation center focusing on prevention services (rental assistance and eviction mitigation), crisis intervention and referrals, vital document services (birth certificate, driver's license, etc.) and transportation. The Refuge is also one of the primary locations in Knoxville for intake assessments necessary for housing placement eligibility verification. - The Street Outreach Team is Knoxville’s only full-time engagement team who work on the streets daily to connect unsheltered people with services. This team also hosts office hours, a clothing closet, mobile shower trailers, intake, and case management. - The Resource Center is a Day Center with Case Managers who work one-on-one to work through barriers to housing and self-sufficiency. Classes, meals, showers, laundry facilities and social activities are also offered. Participants are welcome to the day center for the duration of time awaiting their housing placement. - The Dental Clinic is for uninsured/low-income neighbors in need of dental care through volunteer partnerships and grants. Services include dentures, fillings, cleanings, extractions, and more. - Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) is a housing model designed to serve the most vulnerable who have been identified as “chronically homeless” and have disabilities that compound their issues. VMC owns and operates two PSH facilities totaling 105 apartment units at Minvilla and Caswell Manors. - Rapid Rehousing is a program for those who need guidance to navigate the housing system and short-term rental assistance, but do not need long-term or the full support of a day shelter or PSH.