The Salvation Army

 

Mission Statement

“The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.”

 Who We Are

The Salvation Army is a worldwide religious and charitable organization. Their motivation comes from the love of God and concern for the needs of humanity. Nationally, there are over 62,000 employees and over three million volunteers. Members of The Salvation Army serve the poor and needy in more than 100 countries [2]. The Salvation Army asks for the support of the Fresno community through volunteer efforts and donations. 

 What We Do

The Salvation Army was founded with the basic principles of taking care of the physical and emotional needs of the homeless and the poor. The Salvation Army in Fresno is more than just thrift shops, it offers several programs including senior housing and drug rehabilitation [1].

 

“I thought there was nobody there to help. I was a drug addict who lost his job, family and friends, and I needed help. The Salvation Army changed my life through the Adult Rehabilitation Program, and for that I am thankful. I offer my services now to them,” said Anthony Parker, 24, Fresno, Calif.  

 Ways to Give

The Salvation Army appreciates any kind of donation, whether it is a monetary donation or a donation of your time and efforts. You may donate clothing, furniture and household items to our thrift stores, which benefit The Salvation Army’s adult rehabilitation program. We need the help of students like you to help run our program. Without the help of the campus and community, we would not be able to service the community.

 In Fresno

The Salvation Army in Fresno is in need of donations. Donations can include any of the following: clothes, accessories, electronics, music, cars and home equipment. If you are able to donate these or other useful items, visit any of the five locations in Fresno and Clovis [3].

Doing the Most Good

“Doing the Most Good” is The Salvation Army’s slogan. It is a promise the organization makes to its contributors, clients, associates, officers and employees. The Salvation Army pledges to do the most good with contributions of money, time and resources [1].

Volunteering                                                                                                                       

 Since the beginning, The Salvation Army has relied on volunteers who support its programs. They are often referred to as “the army behind The Army.” Volunteers play a crucial role in The Salvation Army’s ability to provide quality social services for the entire community. Volunteers are extremely valuable assets in The Salvation Army’s efforts to meet the changing needs of our society. Through the skills and experience they bring to The Army, volunteers make contributions to our world by significantly impacting the lives of those they assist. The Salvation Army volunteers change lives, uplift families and support communities throughout our nation every day [1].

“Volunteering was one of the most rewarding things I have ever done. It isn’t hard work, and anyone can help. We all need to give back to the community in some way,” said Fresno State student Tyesha Hendrix, 20.

History

According to The Salvation Army web site [1], The Salvation Army began in London more than 200 years ago with the vision of one man William Booth to salvage the poor, the hungry and the destitute. Booth began his career as a minister in 1852. He didn’t follow the traditional concept of church and pulpit and took his message to the people. Booth and his wife Catherine traveled throughout England and conducted evangelical meetings.

 In 1865, Booth was invited to conduct a series of evangelical meetings in the East End of London. Booth set up a tent in a Quaker graveyard, and his services became an immediate success. Word got out about Booth and his ministries, and he attracted followers who were dedicated to saving the lives and souls of men and women. By 1874, Booth had 1,000 volunteers and 42 evangelists all serving under the name “The Christian Mission.” Booth was the general superintendent, and his followers called him “General.”

 In 1878, Booth was reading a printed annual report when he noticed the statement “The Christian Mission is a volunteer army.” Booth crossed out the words “volunteer army” and penned in “Salvation Army.” From that point on, converts became soldiers of Christ and were known as Salvationists. Between 1881 and 1885, approximately 250,000 people were converted under The Salvation Army ministries. Meanwhile, the Army was expanding to the United States.  

 Lieutenant Eliza Shirley left England to join her parents who had migrated to the United States. She took the ministry with her in hopes of pioneering it in the States. She called for reinforcements, and in 1880, Booth sent an official group to establish their work in America. In 1886, President Grover Cleveland gave the organization a personal endorsement. This was the first time the organization was recognized in the White House and it would be followed by succeeding presidents. The Salvation Army rapidly expanded to Canada, Australia, France, Switzerland, India, South Africa, Iceland and local neighborhood units.

 

 

[1] http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn_2.nsf

 

[2] https://www.salvationarmy.org/

 

[3] http://fresno.oodle.com/donate/charity/1637

 

For Locations in Fresno: http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/webmanagercore/results.jsp?OpenForm&go=1&zip=93720