Washington, D.C. -- September 8, 2005 - Charles W. Gould, president of Volunteers of America, met today with President Bush and approximately 15 other non-profit volunteer organizations to review and coordinate efforts to aid Hurricane Katrina victims. 

"Volunteers of America has been serving the most vulnerable people in New Orleans, Mobile, and the Gulf Coast communities for over 100 years - including the frail elderly, individuals with chronic mental illness or developmental disabilities, and men, women, and children who were homeless even before this disaster and are least prepared to recover." said Volunteers of America President Chuck Gould,  "We are committed, along with the President, to assisting with both their immediate needs and their long-term recovery."

In remarks released by the White House, President Bush thanked the leaders of the volunteer organizations, "…I want to thank leaders of the … faith-based and community-based community for being here. We've got people who represent thousands of volunteers who are in the midst of helping save lives."  President Bush went on to say, " You know, there's a debate here about refugees. Let me tell you my attitude and the attitude of people around this table: The people we're talking about are not refugees. They are Americans, and they need the help and love and compassion of our fellow citizens. And the people at this table are providing that help and compassion and love."

Volunteers of America chapters across the Southeast are responding with staff and volunteers to assist in the relocation and support of people displaced by the storm.  Chapters in other states have identified accommodations, especially for people with special needs, and are beginning to receive evacuees.

Volunteers of America is reaching out to the public for donations to help meet the basic needs of those displaced by Hurricane Katrina - especially the frail elderly, the disabled, and individuals and families who were already homeless before the disaster.  To make a tax-deductible contribution to Volunteers of America, go to the website http://www.voaba.org/ or call toll-free 1-800-899-0089.

Volunteers of America is a national, nonprofit, spiritually based organization providing local human service programs and opportunities for individual and community involvement.  It is one of the largest nonprofit providers of quality affordable housing and last year served nearly 2 million people in need.  Volunteers of America nurtures, supports and uplifts the human spirit - working with children and youth, the elderly, homeless individuals and families, and others to empower them in reaching their full potential.