VAC Continues to Evolve Based on the Needs of Our Community
Many organizations operate with good intentions but don't always meet people where they are. We recognize the needs of our community have shifted, so we're changing too.
New look. New location. Same heart.
VAC numbers for 2025
8,472
Individuals
3,533
Households
21,992
Needs Met
service qualifications
We provide financial assistance with basic and emergency needs to people living in Boone County, Missouri
💙 Now Hiring: Shelter Advocates 💙Room at the Inn is looking for compassionate, dependable people to join our frontline shelter team. Shelter Advocates help create a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for individuals experiencing homelessness while supporting daily shelter operations.✨ Positions available:• Full-time• Part-time / Weekend• Shifts: 5pm–1am and 1am–9am✨ What you’ll do:• Support guests using a trauma-informed, non-judgmental approach• Help maintain safety and calm within the shelter• De-escalate conflicts and respond to crises• Assist with check-in/check-out, light cleaning, meals, and documentation✨ What we’re looking for:• High school diploma or GED• Experience with vulnerable populations (preferred)• Strong communication and de-escalation skills• Reliable, team-oriented, and calm under pressure• Ability to work evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays• Training providedIf you’re passionate about dignity, compassion, and making a real impact in our community, we’d love to hear from you. 💛👉 Download the application here:www.vacmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Employment-Application-Form_Fillable.pdf📧 Submit completed applications to:vac@vacmo.org ... See MoreSee Less
Myth: People experiencing homelessness just need to get a job to afford housing.Fact: Many unhoused people do work—but wages haven't kept pace with housing costs.In Columbia, affording a 2-bedroom rental requires an annual income of $42,756. Even with employment, barriers like credit requirements, rental deposits, and rental history make housing inaccessible for low-wage workers.This isn't about lack of effort. It's about a system where housing has become unaffordable for working people. VAC Opportunity Campus will provide the support people need to bridge this gap and move into stable housing.Come to our open forum at Daniel Boone Regional Library to discuss real solutions for housing affordability and homelessness in Boone County.Sign up link: forms.gle/a5nG3#AffordableHousingf#columbiamoi#housingcrisis#LivingWages#endhomelessnesssndHomelessnesss ... See MoreSee Less
