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Troops returns to Flagstaff, giving kids new opportunities to thrive.
When Lieutenant Zechariah Guess was appointed to his first role as a Salvation Army corps officer at the Flagstaff Corps in July 2025, it didn’t take long for him to notice a missing piece: a Troops program.
He learned that the youth character-building program had been offered at the corps over a decade ago but was no longer active. Determined to bring it back, he set out to relaunch it for a new generation of kids.
“We saw the need for a safe, educational and faith-based space where kids could learn, play and grow—and where parents wouldn’t have to worry,” Guess said, noting that similar programs in the area often come with high fees.
Since its official launch in August 2025, Troops has enrolled 12 students, many from families already connected with the corps’ social services.
Through the after-school program, kids ages 5–17 participate in enrichment activities designed to teach new skills, spark curiosity and build confidence—helping lay the foundation for future leaders and engaged community members, all free of cost.
“It isn’t just about fun and games, but making sure kids feel supported, can make friends and discover what they’re capable of,” Guess said.
Every Wednesday, kids hop on a Salvation Army bus to the corps, where they start with dinner before engaging in themed lessons and activities, earning badges as they gain new skills and knowledge.
“Fieldtrips like this matter because the kids will remember them for years to come, and maybe we might even be inspiring a future astronaut.”
Layla Villasenor, Salvation Army Metro Phoenix Advisory Board Chair
The program kicked off with a space-themed lesson, where kids learned about the stars, planets and constellations. They then got creative, working with paint to create their own space scenes.
In addition to the hands-on activities, the lesson included a spiritual reflection on Psalm 19:1: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands,” encouraging kids to take time to reflect on God’s creations.
“Seeing the excitement in their eyes reminds us that learning can be joyful and inspiring,” Guess said.
To help the program run with minimal expenses, Guess reaches out to the community for support with each lesson. One early supporter, Salvation Army Metro Phoenix Advisory Board Chair Layla Villasenor, recognized the value in youth programming and was eager to help.
She covered the cost for all students, staff and volunteers to enjoy their first field trip to Lowell Observatory, where they explored space up close through interactive exhibits—a trip many kids are still talking about weeks later.
“Fieldtrips like this matter because the kids will remember them for years to come, and maybe we might even be inspiring a future astronaut,” Villasenor said.
A Flagstaff artist, whose work has appeared on Star Trek covers, discovered the program and reached out to host a class. He led an Art Badge lesson, sharing his experiences and guiding the kids through a lesson.
“We’re just blessed to have skilled people who are willing to participate and make this program special,” Guess said.
Troops is also sparking friendships and connections that extend beyond the classroom. One student, Eli, told Guess that he met a new friend through the program who lives in his neighborhood, and now they hang out together outside of Troops.
In addition, more than half of the participants now attend Junior Church, boosting attendance and engagement each Sunday.
“It’s amazing to see these kids start to grow and discover themselves a little more,” Guess said. “And it’s so beautiful to see them enjoying every second of it.”
Looking ahead, the kids will work toward their Animal Husbandry badge with a visit from therapy dogs and their handlers.
“We’re building more than a program,” Guess said. “We’re building a future where kids know they’re valued and capable of doing great things—for their families, their community and for God.”
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