VAN Background

Every day, families in our community make tough choices - like deciding whether to pay for rent or food; or whether to buy medication or put gas in their car to get to work. United Way NSV’s Community Needs Assessment (add link to page), completed in 2017, found people across our region need help accessing resources, knowing where to turn for help, and improvement toward economic mobility.

That same year, Rutgers University, in collaboration with United Ways across Virginia, released the ALICE Report (link to page). The ALICE population stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed.  This group makes up almost 40% of our community. Most ALICE families are walking a financial tightrope, don’t qualify for government assistance, and often don’t know where to turn when they need help. 

VAN was created through years of research from United Way Worldwide and collaboration from community partners. VAN is guided by a Steering Committee made up of committed community leaders.

 

Mission: To engage community resources to move individuals and families from crisis to financial security

Vision: An empowered community where all families achieve financial security

Values: The Valley Assistance Network operates under these key values:

Collaboration: We value and promote effective partnerships.

Integrity:  We are honest and ethical; we have respect for all people, community and cultures.

Compassion: We treat all individuals with care, concern, and empathy; we are not judgmental.

Innovation:  We embrace continuous improvements, bold creativity, and change.

Empowerment:  We promote strategies that encourage growth and inspire clients to achieve personal success.                                                                                    

Advocacy:  We galvanize people to speak out for change and facilitate collaborative efforts for real solutions.

 

 

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