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The Salvation Army in Hayward, Calif., is prospering with Helms at the helm…as evidenced by the 700 volunteers present at the recent Volunteer Recognition and Reception.
In attendance were Lt. Colonels Charles and April Strickland, divisional leaders; the Honorable Roberta Cooper, Mayor of Hayward; Frankie Soliven-Meglin, Advisory Board chair; and Corps Officers Captain Nancy Helms and Major Peggy Helms.
Recognition was given to Mrs. Marty Pardue, who leads the many who serve a weekly meal to homeless and low-income seniors in the corps community. Volunteers come from local churches and the Hayward Rotary Club to prepare, serve and witness to a crowd of about 140.
Mr. Richard Moore, a new Senior soldier, gave his testimony during the reception. He received Christ as his personal Savior during rehabilitation at the Oakland ARC. He is now the resident manager of 120 men currently in rehabilitation at that Center.
Captain Helms and her mother-in-law, Major Peggy Helms, perform a unique ministry at Hayward Corps. Since the death of Nancy’s husband, Drew, they have shared corps duties, with Nancy working with youth and Peggy supervising League of Mercy, Home League and other adult ministries. Major Gordon Helms, East Bay Counties Coordinator, can be on hand to advise about corps financial matters and work with the Advisory Board.
Captain Nancy has a full schedule, not only at the corps but with caring for her three children, Nicholas, Cameron and Katie. Nicholas, 8, enjoys helping with LOM and is a favorite with the people they visit. They often are approached by people who remember Drew and things he did for them, showing that his memory still lives in Hayward.
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