In 1976, a nationwide initiative was developed by the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) to design a paralegal model volunteer program. With over 200 local chapters across North America at the time, AJLI chose 10 demonstration sites to conduct the study. The Junior League of Omaha (JLO) was selected as one of the sites for Project VIE (Volunteers Intervening for Equity).
In 1978, Project VIE was developed and actively began serving the Omaha community. The purpose of Project VIE was to utilize the expertise of older volunteers in the community and to provide information on insurance alternatives as well as legal assistance for senior citizens.
In 1980, The JLO approved continuing funds of $26,477.20 over a two-year period for VIE. At that time, VIE was incorporated as a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation.
In 1999, VIE became the regional office for the NICA (Nebraska Health Insurance Information Counseling and Assistance) program, now known as SHIIP (Senior Health Insurance Information Program).
In 2006, VIE changed its name to Volunteers Assisting Seniors (VAS) and continues to serve the senior population in Douglas, Sarpy, Cass, Dodge, and Washington counties in Nebraska.
Today, VAS continues to be an advocate for senior rights and privileges, providing community education and individual counseling to seniors, caregivers and professionals who work with seniors.
