Since 1896, Volunteers of America has supported and empowered veterans, at-risk youth, the frail elderly, men and women returning from prison, homeless individuals and families, people with disabilities, and those recovering from addictions. Through hundreds of human service programs, including housing and healthcare, Volunteers of America helps more than 2.5 million people in over 400 communities nationally. Volunteers of America believes housing is fundamental to every success story, to build futures and deliver services, and owns more than 370 affordable housing properties with over 17,000 affordable housing units in 42 states and Puerto Rico.

The Better Buildings Challenge complements Volunteers of America’s participation in the Big Reach, an initiative by the members of Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future (SAHF). SAHF’s eleven members, representing nearly 100,000 units, are each committing to reducing portfolio wide energy consumption 20% by 2020, using a 2010 baseline. The initiative focuses on integrating energy efficiency into all aspects of members’ affordable housing development and operations. Volunteers of America will use several energy savings pathways—improved operations and maintenance, resident engagement, appliance and equipment upgrades, multiple approaches to whole building retrofits, and use of renewable energy—to meet its commitment under the Better Buildings Challenge.