Founded in 1980, Volunteers of America Southeast is the branch of the national nonprofit that serves Alabama, Mississippi and Georgia. VOA Southeast provides affordable housing, services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, substance use recovery and many other services to around 35,000 people across the three states.

Beginning this month, VOA Southeast will partner with Fox 10 in Mobile for the “Season of Caring,” where Mobilians are encouraged to donate one of “10 Caring Gifts” at locations throughout the city. The gifts include toys, food, toiletries and other essentials.

Rob Rogers has worked in social services for 30 years and spent 24 with Volunteers of America. Before coming to VOA Southeast, he worked for VOA branches in the Chesapeake Bay area and in the Carolinas. He has served as president of VOA Southeast for a little more than two years.

Here, Rogers discusses why VOA Southeast prioritizes affordable housing, the “Season of Caring” and how Mobile residents can get involved.

Questions and answers have been condensed and edited for clarity.