Lisa Robinson
United Way of the Virginia Peninsula is honored
to salute one of Newport News Community Heroes, Lisa Robinson. Lisa is a member of the board of directors of LINK of Hampton Roads,
a United Way funded agency that offers homeless shelter, and permanent supportive housing
for people with disabilities.
Before moving to Virginia from the Midwest several years ago, Lisa—diagnosed with cerebral
palsy at birth—managed a housing development for seniors and people with disabilities. She
enjoyed her work helping others, but wanted to move closer to family living on the Peninsula.
Lisa made the move to Virginia, but did not anticipate the difficulties she encountered
finding employment and affordable housing. Not wanting to burden her family, Lisa eventually
found herself homeless, living in her car, and on the steps of the PORT winter shelter program
at a local church. Unable to sleep on the floor sleeping mats due to her disability, the LINK staff
stepped in to help. “LINK was my life-saver,” Lisa says. “They were able to find an apartment
for me, help me move in, and be self-sufficient again.”
With Lisa’s unique understanding of the needs of the disabled and the homeless, LINK is proud
to have her as a member of their board of directors. Likewise, United Way is honored to
partner with community heroes like Lisa and organizations like LINK. Ordinary people doing
extraordinary things so we can all LIVE UNITED.