HOUSTON (Dec. 9, 2025)— Today, Volunteers of America National Services (VOANS), Volunteers of America Texas (VOA Texas) and the William A. Lawson Institute for Peace and Prosperity (WALIPP) hosted a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of construction for the WALIPP Senior Residence Expansion—a $29.3 million affordable housing development for older adults age 55+ that will add 102 new apartment units to WALIPP’s existing community in Houston’s Third Ward.
This joint venture represents a collaboration of 11 different funding partners united by a shared commitment to increasing safe, high-quality affordable housing for older adults in one of Houston’s most historic neighborhoods. Home to Houston’s HBCU, Texas Southern University, the Third Ward is undergoing gentrification and the WALIPP expansion creates much-needed housing options for residents earning less than 80% of the area median income.
Each new apartment home will feature nine-foot ceilings; a central HVAC system; a modern kitchen; in-unit washer and dryer; vinyl plank flooring; and ceiling fans in the bedroom and living room. The expansion will also include controlled access entry; community rooms in each building; a fitness center; business center; activity room; and thoughtfully designed green space throughout the community.
“This project underscores our commitment towards building affordable housing in underserved communities,” said Dee Dee Beaty, senior vice president of housing for Volunteers of America National Services. “More older adults in the Third Ward will have the opportunity to fully experience Rev. Lawson’s vision through the access to health services and modern living spaces that will allow residents to age in place with dignity.”
“Increasing affordable housing options for our senior neighbors continues to be a priority for VOA Texas, not only through developing new properties but also by ensuring that residents have the services and supports they need to age in place with dignity,” said Angela King, VOA Texas president and CEO. “We are proud to partner with VOANS and WALIPP on this important expansion, which reflects our shared commitment to helping older adults live safely, independently, and fully connected to their community. This collaboration strengthens the rich legacy of the Third Ward, and we look forward to working alongside WALIPP for decades to come to ensure that seniors can truly thrive.”
The project builds on the legacy of former civil rights pioneer and founder of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, Reverend William A. Lawson. WALIPP’s mission to advance equity and opportunity for Third Ward residents—particularly youth, older adults, and underserved individuals—continues through the leadership of Rev. Lawson’s daughter and WALIPP Executive Director, Cheryl Lawson. “This groundbreaking represents a continuation of my father’s lifelong mission to uplift the people of the Third Ward. This is not just a construction project: it represents the community coming together to support quality housing with land granted by Midtown Redevelopment Authority and a public-private partnership of funding sources. WALIPP is fully committed to ensuring our seniors have the dignity and respect they deserve to thrive.”
The ceremony included remarks from the President and CEO of Volunteers of America, Mike King, City Councilwoman Carolyn Evans-Shabazz, and participation from funding partners Wells Fargo Bank, Capital Impact Partners, Cullen Foundation, Rice University Real Estate Company, Office of the 18th Congressional District of Texas, Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas, and Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta. The development is scheduled for completion in spring 2027.
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About Volunteers of America National Services
Volunteers of America National Services (VOANS), a subsidiary of Volunteers of America, provides affordable housing and healthcare services in over 40 states and in Puerto Rico. The organization employs over 2,000 dedicated staff who provide high quality services and care to our clients. As one of the largest non-profit affordable housing owners/operators in the nation, the VOANS portfolio includes over 240 properties and 15,000 affordable housing units. VOANS also operates senior healthcare programs, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation, skilled nursing care, home health care, and Programs for all Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). Learn more at www.voans.org.
About Volunteers of America Texas
Volunteers of America Texas is a ministry of service that empowers individuals and families to overcome obstacles to reach their full potential and thrive. The ministry strengthens communities through an array of services, including substance abuse treatment and prevention, affordable housing, community re-entry, employment training, and disability services. With locations in more than 30 urban and rural communities, Volunteers of America Texas has been helping those who need it most for more than 100 years. For more information, visit www.voatx.org.
About the William A. Lawson Institute for Peace and Prosperity
The William A. Lawson Institute for Peace and Prosperity (WALIPP) builds bridges between generations, from the students rising at The Lawson Academy to the elders thriving at the WALIPP Senior Residence. Together, we are shaping Houston’s future. The expansion creates 102 additional units to the existing 50-apartment community. In the 20 years of operation for this community, they have served nearly 300 families. In fact, there are still a few persons who have lived on the building for all those 20 years.
About Volunteers of America
Volunteers of America is one of the nation’s largest, established comprehensive human services organizations with 16,000 mission-driven professionals, dedicated to helping those in need rebuild their lives and reach their full potential. Founded in 1896, the faith-based nonprofit has programs in 46 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, serving more than 1.5 million people a year. Learn more at www.voa.org.
Contacts
For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:
Traci West
Strategic Communications Manager
Volunteers of America National Services
Email: twest@voa.org
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