Ministry Team
Since 1896, Volunteers of America has transformed lives by reaching and uplifting America’s most vulnerable.
From our beginning, we have sought to reflect love, grace, and healing through our service and ministry. We seek to serve the needs of the whole person—mind, body and spirit—by bringing together the human service agency and the church.
The ministry of Volunteers of America is a church without walls that is dedicated to serving ALL people. Since arriving in Alaska in 1981, our affiliate’s calling has been to lovingly serve others, care for others, and walk alongside individuals in their spiritual journey.
VOA Alaska’s ministry is one of service, nondiscriminatory in the delivery of our services, providing assistance to people of all faiths and beliefs.
Can We Pray For You?
For more than 125 years, Volunteers of America’s ministers have been praying with and for people throughout our community.
Whatever your prayer need, finding peace of mind provides a foundation of strength to face any situation.
Meet Our Ministers
Julia Luey
President & CEO
VOA Alaska staff since 2018 Commissioned Minister in 2023
Why I pursued commissioning/ordination:
My journey of becoming a commissioned minister was inspired by my desire to gain more tools and insights on ways to better serve our employees and clients. I strongly believe in the power of spirituality as part of one’s healing journey so this experience has helped shape the way I can support others.
My favorite way to serve as a minister:
My favorite way to serve as a minister is by showing up and sharing space with employees and clients. That includes holding conversations offering hope and inspiration, listening and validating ones experience and offering meaningful support.
Brian L. Emory
Administration Operations Manager
VOA Alaska staff since 2021 Commissioned Minister in 2024
Why I pursued commissioning/ordination:
After serving my country for 28 years and retiring from the Navy, I wanted to find a new career where I could focus on serving the local community and state. With the amazing work we do here for Alaskans by bringing hope, health and healing, I knew God had placed me in the perfect location. I pursued becoming a minister to better contribute in uplifting the human spirit. It takes all three, mind-body-soul, to have a strong foundation. My love for the Lord is a strength and I want to assist Alaskans in understanding where we fit in the universe and encouraging them in their faith journey.
My favorite way to serve as a minister:
Helping others! The more I can serve, the better example I can be. I find sharing words of encouragement and bringing a positive approach to every situation can be the light when times are dark. God has blessed every one of us and being a light that listens, supports, prays and inspires others is how I serve.
Michael Cunningham
Training & Support Specialist
VOA Alaska staff since 2011 Commissioned Minister in 2024
Why I pursued commissioning/ordination:
God encouraged/directed me to apply first and foremost. I want to help others connect with God or a Higher Power of their understanding, so he can solve their problems for them. In my darkest times, Jesus was there to pull me out of the wreckage I created, and the more I surrender to him and his will for me, the better my life becomes. I want to help others on their journey in life and in faith of any kind.
My favorite way to serve as a minister:
Following God’s will for me as He reveals it.