We have all heard the ringing of Salvation Army bells during the Christmas season. It serves as a reminder for the great needs that so many people face during this time of the year and the work that the Salvation Army does to comfort those who find themselves in difficult situations. We help to spread joy during what should be a very joyful time of the year.
While that is an important part of our identity, The Salvation Army is so much more than bell-ringers!
The Salvation Army has been active in North and South Carolina since 1887 – opening units in Raleigh, NC, Wilmington, NC and Spartanburg, SC in that year. Today, the Army operates hundreds of facilities and services in over 50 “commands” around North and South Carolina. These range from daily character building programs such as the Boys and Girls Clubs and community centers, to providing shelter for familiees in need of transitional housing, to holding weekly worship services, to providing safe and affordable housing to seniors.
These commands are normally headed by an “Officer” of The Salvation Army – individuals or couples who have accepted positions of full-time ministry with The Salvation Army. Officers are responsible for leading a force of local volunteers, employees, and soldiers (those who choose The Salvation Army as their home “church” and commit to regular worship and service).
So, while you can expect to see us around the community in full force during the holidays, it may surprise where else you may run into a “Salvationist”. We’re commited to helping in so many aspects of community life and to “Doing the Most Good” with the resources that you entrust us with.