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Annual happening provides opportunities to increase awareness and thank supporters.
Each spring, the second week in May, National Salvation Army Week takes place with the Army across the U.S. holding special events to highlight its work.
President Dwight D. Eisenhower declared the first National Salvation Army Week in 1954, proclaiming: “Among Americans, The Salvation Army has long been a symbol of wholehearted dedication to the cause of brotherhood. In time of war, the men and women of this organization have brought to those serving their country far from home, friendliness and warm concern. In the quieter days of peace, their work has been a constant reminder to us all that each of us is neighbor and kin to all Americans; giving freely of themselves, the men and women of The Salvation Army have won the respect of all.”
Today, the week provides an opportunity to raise awareness of The Salvation Army and to recognize those who make its ministry possible—the community partners and donors.
Below are a few of the ways Western Territory corps celebrated National Salvation Army Week.
Skagway, Alaska—Retired officers Majors Larry and Evelyn Repass answered questions about the Army’s history, including stories of Jefferson Randolph “Soapy” Smith II—a local folk hero, why baseball hero Ted Williams held a grudge against the Army and why Denzel Washington often volunteers. Other events included a sidewalk sale, pet adoption and outdoor fun day, concluding with Donor Appreciation Day.
Renton, Wash.—The Renton Corps partnered with the U.S. Postal Service to hold a food drive.
Auburn, Calif.—The corps hosted a Celebration Breakfast at the Ridge Golf Course to honor volunteers and supporters.
Modesto, Calif.—The Salvation Army’s Red Shield youth members held a boxing demonstration at the Vintage Faire Mall.
San Francisco—The Army teamed up with the Rotary Club, U.S. Presidio Park Police and Sports Basement for the Third Annual Bike Build, which provided new bicycles and helmets for 75 underprivileged children.
Suisan City, Calif.—The corps held an Open House Party at the recently opened welcome center of the new, still being built, Ray and Joan Kroc Community Center. Visitors viewed construction drawings of the Kroc Center, researched and applied for open positions and met the “Kroc Krew.”
Turlock, Calif.—Community members participated in the Sixth Annual Century 21 M&M and Associates Charity Golf Classic at the Turlock Golf & Country Club. All proceeds benefited The Salvation Army.
Yuba City, Calif.—The corps hosted a “Progressive Dinner.” Diners began at the corps’ social services office for appetizers, “progressed” to the Depot Family Crisis Center for dinner and finished at the transitional housing facility for a tour and dessert.
Las Vegas, Nev.—The annual Salvation Army Clark County Awards Luncheon honored donors, volunteers and other supporters of the Army from the past year at the Texas Station-Dallas Ballroom. In addition, they presented a “Partner in Mission” award to the honorable Jackie Glass for her continued support of the Army and its programs.
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