Five years later, I was promoted to the Social Services Program Coordinator position, and my soul has never been happier and more fulfilled. In my job description, I oversee the Center of Hope Shelter, the thrift store, and clients needing help with bills and food assistance.

But in all honesty, I love this place so much that I’ve taken on more responsibility. I help prepare food boxes for clients, assist in handing out gifts to children in need at Christmas time, plan and provide activities for kids living in the projects, coordinate transportation for people getting to our shelter, assist in planning events such as the fall festival, prepare meal plans for shelter residents and community clients plus so much more.

The clients I meet walk through our doors from a place of brokenness. When they sit down at my desk, I start with a prayer every meeting. I like to make people feel comfortable and heard by allowing them to explain how they got to us. Then I do everything I can through the grace of God to help them with something before they leave my office.

But when anyone asks what I do at The Salvation Army, I always respond, "Doing The Most Good." I wake up daily in prayer, asking the Lord to help me make one person smile that day, at least one person. That’s how I live and practice my role as Program Coordinator.

So, I serve at The Salvation Army to give back to my community. I give at my local Red Kettle, donate clothes to our thrift store, shop at our thrift store, and volunteer for any project or task needed. I know my contribution is going to someone who needs it.