“The staff has appreciated my volunteering, but I see my time serving as having a purpose.

Through navigating a difficult childhood and addiction, I received support from doctors, emergency rooms, and counseling; you name it. In recovery, giving back to the community serving me all these years became important. This is where I found, The Salvation Army.

It all started when I was looking for a place to give back around the holidays, so I volunteered for the Angel Tree program and as a bell ringer for the Red Kettle program. Ringing that bell outside storefronts, I heard countless testimonies from recipients and donors about how The Salvation Army shaped their lives. These families and individuals received many blessings through programs like the Boys and Girls Club, the Merkle Center of Hope Shelter, and daily community meals.

After the holiday season, I asked the Major how I could continue helping. He was taken aback and grateful for my offer because most volunteers return to living their daily lives after the holidays. Initially, I started by assisting in the kitchen. As I washed dishes and sorted the food donations, Miss Stephanie, the Head Chef, and I got to know each other and bonded. She later offered me the opportunity to advance and grow in my responsibilities by preparing side dishes and desserts.