What began in 1969 as a vision to provide central volunteer coordination has evolved over the years into a vibrant, thriving local organization that has addressed the otherwise unmet needs of thousands of economically disadvantaged Boone County citizens for 40 years.

As the Voluntary Action Center (VAC) celebrates these 40 years of providing service to Columbia and its surrounding communities, demand for the agency's most important services has never been greater. In 2008, VAC provided services to address the essential needs of more than 9,370 local persons; requests in 2009 are well ahead of that pace.

The persons that VAC serves come from a wide variety of backgrounds, but they all have one thing in common: they cannot afford a basic necessity. Many times, these families are tightly budgeted, and have no extra money for unexpected occurrences.

In addition to its widely recognized annual Christmas holiday and Christmas In July programs, VAC provides services to low-income families and individuals that include assistance with prescriptions, eye care, transportation, emergency food and shelter, hygiene items, acquisition of birth certificates, state identification cards and drivers licenses and scholarships for youth enrichment activities. The agency also helps with organizing volunteers for numerous community activities, such as the ongoing Lunch In The Park program.

To celebrate these 40 years of service, VAC is initiating a fundraising campaign designed to raise $40,000. All funds raised will be used in support of programs that help low-income citizens acquire basic needs, including necessary prescription medicines, food, shelter, clothing and transportation to and from work. Supporters may also choose to donate to VAC's Endowment Fund, which will help ensure the vitality of the agency for years to come.

Recurring and one-time donations to VAC can now be made using ACH (auto) withdrawal from an individual or business' bank account. One-time donations may also be made. A donation form is available by clicking here.

For additional information about VAC and its 40th anniversary fundraising campaign, please contact Cindy Mustard, VAC's Executive Director, at (573) 874-2273.