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Hawaii and Pacific Islands volunteer
Last year, The Salvation Army Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division served more than 2,000 Thanksgiving meals on O’ahu. An Army with such muscle would not be able to carry out the island state’s largest Thanksgiving meal without a humble and hardworking volunteer like Clarence Ing.
Ing has served as a dedicated Salvation Army volunteer for 35 years, overseeing the behind-the-scenes food preparation and service for the annual Thanksgiving meal at Blaisdell Exhibition Hall.
His humble journey with the organization began when he and his wife, Jennie, needed activities to entertain their two sons. As members of the Kauluwela Mission Corps, he enrolled his two sons in the church’s activity groups for children. As he became aware of the mission of The Salvation Army, Ing felt compelled to give back by volunteering during the holidays. He’s done so ever since, without fanfare or recognition.
Ing started serving meals to those who are lonely and hungry at The Salvation Army’s annual Thanksgiving dinner. Eventually, Ing became the food coordinator for the event, ensuring there was enough food for more than 2,000 people every year. He has helped serve and provide Thanksgiving meals to tens of thousands of guests.
He’s also involved with The Salvation Army’s Live Nativity event in Manoa. He participates in the planning process and takes care of the volunteers that share the Christmas story for families each year.
Today, Ing is one of the longest-serving volunteers of the division. His hard work and compassion inspire others to give and volunteer to help people throughout the organization.
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