Faces Of The Army- Heart To God, Hand To Man
I was invited to sit in on an Advisory Board in the mid-‘80’s and have been a member ever since.
Being the former Chair of the Advisory Board and now the Treasurer, I can confidently say that The Salvation Army is known as one of the most trusted organizations time and time again because of how they steward donors’ money. I’ve observed the financial statements for years, and not a single dime is wasted. But the most important thing I’ve learned is the meaning behind the saying, “A hand up, not a handout.”
I often say that The Salvation Army is one of the best-kept secrets in town because the money isn’t wasted on marketing dollars; it’s spent on the programs and services offered.
Being on the Advisory Board is very rewarding. For example, about six years ago, we saw an increase in the homeless population in our community. We also recognized that our current shelter was built over 100 years ago and could only serve men. We started fundraising for the money necessary to build a shelter to serve women, families, and male veterans. We needed roughly 5 million dollars to make this happen, and we’ve raised right under our goal thanks to our community’s fantastic support. Our Advisory Board has played a key role in ensuring we are financially sound by the opening date so we don’t have significant debt in years to come.
We look forward to opening the new Center of Hope in May which will provide 32 beds for women and children and 17 additional beds for male veterans.
Officers come and go to different appointments; the Board is constant.
As an Advisory Board member, you get to be a part of the operations of all the programs offered and meet recipients of the services provided. When there’s a hurricane, we take our mobile feeding unit out to feed the affected community. When there’s a flood, we offer shelter for people who can’t reach their homes. When a local tragedy strikes, such as a house fire, The Salvation Army’s Family Thrift Store provides furniture, clothes, and other essential items needed for that family.
Anyone is always welcome to a Board meeting. We invite anyone interested to see how we’re “Doing The Most Good” in your community. We invite you to come to tour our facilities and learn about the programs and services offered. Often, you’re greeted by the recipients of our programs. I’m always pleasantly greeted outside by the men in the shelter every time I arrive, it’s always very genuine.
Every city around the country has the same pressing problems of homeless, drug addiction, and crime. Many organizations are trying to do something about it, but The Salvation Army is one organization that seems to be addressing those problems the best.