New Frontier Chronicle May/June 2025 | Vol. 43, No. 03
West gathers for Holiness Retreat
Fifth annual event held in Rancho Palos Verdes, California.
BY HILLARY JACKSON
The Western Territory’s Holiness Retreat, “Thirst,” took place March 7-9, on the Crestmont Campus in Rancho Palos Verdes California. The weekend encouraged 174 attendees—delegates and guests— from around the West to take time away from their typical routines to consider holiness—to be set apart for God.
The weekend marked the fifth year of the retreat— the largest territorial event outside of Commissioning. It was led by Territorial Secretary for Spiritual Life Development Commissioner Colleen Riley, and centered on the message found in Matthew 5:6: Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Riley said, from a spiritual perspective, gathering at events like the Holiness Retreat is essential because it creates space for God to move in our hearts and deepen our relationship with him.
HOLINESS RETREAT PAGE 13
Teen Drop-In Center offers safe option
San Francisco Kroc Center meets a community need.
BY KAREN GLEASON
The 50-block Tenderloin neighborhood in the heart of San Francisco is known for crime and squalor. It’s also home to the city’s highest concentration of kids—an estimated 3,000, according to U.S. News & World Report. As these kids navigate the streets, they witness homelessness, drug use and drug dealing.
The Tenderloin is also home to The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in San Francisco, which aims to give kids a safe place to go. In September 2024, it opened its Teen Drop-In Center, aiming to expand its reach.
The new center is one of 21 projects funded by the Tenderloin Community Action Plan (TCAP) and voted on by the Tenderloin community. In its 2024 Impact Report, TCAP identified needs for more youth services, including safe spaces for disconnected youth. Aware of the Kroc Center’s amenities, community leaders approached The Salvation Army about meeting that need.
“Kroc is honored to be identified by the Tenderloin neighborhood to help meet the need for teens to have
intentional space,” said Kroc Center Corps Officer Captain Arwyn Rodriguera. “We are so excited to welcome the teens of our community.”
Recently, about 40 youth attended a Teen Night, where they could check out what the center offers and participate in a mini dodgeball tournament. Kroc Center Program Director Katherine Au said the event
went well, especially for a Thursday night—normally Teen Nights happen on Fridays.
During its regular hours of 4-8 p.m., Monday through Friday, youth can come to the Teen Center for homework help, life skills classes and other workshops, or just some fun—games and sports. Membership is free.
ARC partnerships aim to reduce textile waste
The Salvation Army’s Donations Development Team tackles textile waste through corporate partnerships and new sustainable initiatives.
BY HALEY OSNESS
The Environmental Protection Agency estimates the U.S. generates approximately 17 million tons of textile waste annually, with more than half ending up in landfills. This figure has grown over the past two decades, with experts pointing to fast fashion as a significant contributor.
To address the growing environmental crisis, The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Centers Command launched a Donations Development Team in June 2024 to build corporate partnerships that ensure a steady flow of clothing and textile donations to Salvation Army thrift stores and distribution centers.
Since 2023, Salvation Army thrift stores in the western U.S. have kept over 103 million pounds of textiles out of landfills, according to data tracked by the Donations Development Team.
At distribution and donation centers, The Salvation Army
DONATIONS DEVELOPMENT PAGE 10
Teens play air hockey at the San Francisco Kroc Teen Drop-in Center.
The Donations Development Team alongside its partners T.J. Maxx and Marshalls. |PHOTO COURTESY BIANCA NEMTOC
Retreat delegates gather at the Crestmont Campus.
|PHOTO COURTESY DOUGLAS RILEY
UP FRONT
Heatwoles begin appointment as National Leaders
Commissioners Merle and Dawn Heatwole officially began their new roles as National Commander and National Secretary for Program, respectively, on March 1 at National Headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia. They succeed Commissioners Kenneth G. and Jolene Hodder.
“I am deeply honored to take on this responsibility and to serve alongside Commissioner Dawn as we lead The Salvation Army’s work across the country,” said Merle Heatwole. “We have witnessed firsthand the impact of The Salvation Army’s ministry in communities worldwide, and we are committed to ensuring that our services remain a source of hope, healing and transformation for those in need.” NFC
Korea Territory responds to South Korea wildfires
The Korea Territory engaged in emergency relief following the biggest wildfire ever recorded in South Korea. After igniting March 22, the fires burned for days, spanning 119,000 acres in the country’s southeast. More than 4,000 structures were damaged or and the Goejeong Corps was destroyed. The territory will continue to meet both immediate and long-term needs. NFC
EDITORIAL STAFF
Christin Thieme, Editor-in-Chief and Literary Secretary 562/491-8723 • christin.thieme@usw.salvationarmy.org
Army responds to devastating earthquakes in Myanmar
The Salvation Army responded to two earthquakes in Myanmar that devastated the country’s Sagaing and Mandalay regions March 28. The initial 7.7-magnitude quake was the strongest to hit the country in more than a century. The widespread damage made emergency response difficult, and the death toll has surpassed 3,700 people. Thousands
5 THINGS TO KNOW
about this year’s Commissioning
events
(June 11-13 in Cerritos, California)
1 2 3 4 5
FRIDAY NIGHT will include Commencement and a Celebration of Long Service for officers and local officers.
SATURDAY will feature the annual Encore competition and Bible Bowl final.
SATURDAY NIGHT will feature the musical “This is My Story,” a series of stories behind best-loved hymns.
SUNDAY MORNING’S holiness meeting will include the Ordination and Commissioning of the Champions of the Mission.
SUNDAY AFTERNOON will include the appointments of the new officers.
Register today: events.usawest.org
ONLINE AND SOCIAL MEDIA
Cory Gaudaur, Digital Operations Director 562/491-8326 • cory.gaudaur@usw.salvationarmy.org
more were injured and millions of people were without power. The corps in Yeni, 186 miles south of Mandalay and on the same fault line, was damaged, and The Salvation Army children’s home in Phyu was also affected. While the children and staff were reported safe, the building’s structural safety is now a concern. NFC
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I have met some of the most amazing, courageous, strong, loving people on their very worst day…They blossom or become their best version of themselves after someone shows them kindness.
Gillette (Montana) Service Extension Leader Jenny Hartung on The Do Gooders Podcast Episode 222: When food is just the beginning Listen to the interview here:
New Frontier Chronicle founded 1983 Bob Docter, Founding Editor
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Meet the West’s Mission Strategist
Jim Sparks aims to help The Salvation Army chart its future in the Western Territory.
BY KAREN GLEASON
“Why is that causing this?”
As the Territorial Mission Strategist for The Salvation Army Western Territory, Jim Sparks often finds himself asking that question. His curiosity serves him well in this position, a new role in the Western Territory.
“I always like learning new things,” Sparks said. “I’m a curious person, so I like to dig in.” Sparks researches future trends and cultural shifts to identify potential challenges and opportunities for The Salvation Army’s ministry. His responsibilities also include strengthening communication and systems that support the territory’s strategic mission and developing leadership training to reflect the evolving workplace and church culture.
To do this, Sparks collects and analyzes data and collaborates with other departments.
“It allows us to make better decisions based on real data,” he said.
Eight months into the role, he’s delving into the complexities surrounding issues like officer moves and their effect on the congregation.
“The inner workings of the Salvation Army can be incredibly complex,” Sparks said. “My hope is that through deep dives in data, real conversations with key stakeholders and working collaboratively with various departments we can collectively provide thoughtful information to decision makers and in turn provide quality resources that support the work in the field. As I have quickly found out, that involves doing some root cause analysis. Sometimes the more you dig, you see that the roots are much bigger than you anticipated.”
Territorial Program Secretary Lt. Colonel Phil Lum is optimistic about the impact of the Mission Strategist role.
“As we look to the future, Jim’s dedication to the Army’s mission and his critical thinking skills will help our territory move forward in a positive direction,” Lum said.
After growing up in The Salvation Army, Sparks first worked for the organization at Camp Mt. Crags in Calabasas, California—now Lawrence M. Daley Camp and Conference Center. From there, he went to the Territorial Youth Department, where he worked for 22 years before transitioning to Territorial Mission Strategist.
He’s witnessed The Salvation Army’s impact on individuals and communities.
“There’s no end to what The Salvation Army provides,” he said. “I love that if there is a need, that The Salvation Army is willing to take a look at that need to see if it could do something about it.
“But what has never gotten old for me is witnessing lives change, especially when people make a commitment to Christ. Seeing someone’s life take a new direction and knowing that moment will shape their future fills me with awe every time.”
As Territorial Mission Strategist, Sparks aims to equip the territory’s corps with the tools and strategies needed to
serve their communities effectively while continuing to lead people to Christ, advancing The Salvation Army’s mission.
We asked Sparks about his goals as Territorial Mission Strategist and the challenges and opportunities ahead.
How did your years in the Youth Department prepare you for this position?
I think I benefited most from the relationships. For understanding The Salvation Army and its nuances, its complexity—that was found in building relationships. I have relationships with established officers starting from when they were young officers. Because I have relationships, it allows me to ask questions and to get good answers, and it allows me to have a better perspective of what the current temperature is around the territory. Because of these relationships built over time, I have an understanding of what officers go through and what they want—the realities of what’s going on. I’m able to ask questions that hopefully build trust and elicit feedback of what’s happening in our congregations, in the field.
What are some of your achievements from your time in the Youth Department?
I really wanted to introduce new things—and we did that. Specifically, I always wanted to explore new ways of worship and how we understand worship, and so designing meetings that were different, that had a different vibe, a different pathway than people are used to—or to challenge norms of how we think we could be growing in Christ, and are there different ways that we could do that. And we had some incredible worship services over the years. That’s really exciting because you feel like you’re opening a door for growth…I think in a lot of ways, we made some change. I could look back at some of that and say, ‘Oh, I remember when people were adamantly against that.’ And it’s kind of fun to
see that it’s not only happening, but it’s serving a good purpose.
What are your goals as Territorial Mission Strategist?
The Salvation Army is unique because we change. We change more than most churches change. What does that mean for us?
Ultimately, my goal would be to
ULTIMATELY, MY GOAL WOULD BE TO HELP BUILD A COLLABORATIVE ENVIRONMENT WHERE STRENGTHS ARE LEVERAGED SO THAT OUR CORPS, PROGRAMS AND SERVICES NOT ONLY GROW, BUT ARE OF A HIGH QUALITY.
Jim Sparks
help build a collaborative environment where strengths are leveraged so that our corps, programs and services not only grow, but are of a high quality. Sometimes that may mean looking at a larger cultural shift. Sometimes that may mean a series of small changes that could yield larger results. Thoughtful research and relationships will be key to building such an environment.
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233 survivors were provided with 16,231 nights of housing
19,891 case management hours
6,000+ people participated in the Annual Day of Prayer for victims of human trafficking case management clients
HOPE Village residents find support for sustainable change
The Longview, Washington, tiny home community is now in its third year of operation.
BY HILLARY JACKSON
The 50-unit HOPE Village pallet home community opened in the Highlands neighborhood of Longview, Washington, in December 2022, inhabiting land where an encampment stood for three years that, at times, was home to some 150 people.
During the encampment years, the Highlands experienced frequent police activity, said Longview Temple Corps Officer Major Phil Smith. The Longview City Council declared a state of public health emergency for the site of the encampment, and it was cleared, with plans to construct a tiny home community for the population in its place.
Initially, members of the community were hesitant when they heard of the plans, Smith said.
HOPE Village opened as an emergency housing readiness program for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness and addiction, with The Salvation Army as the contracted service provider.
Now in its third year of operation, the program has resulted in some 100 people achieving permanent housing—individuals who often would have been considered “unhouseable” due to chronic homelessness.
“The premise of the model was to help house these “unhouseable” people, but really what’s proven to be the biggest impact, I think, is stabilization of that population,” Smith said.
While 100 people might not seem like a large percentage compared to the number of people experiencing homelessness, and those on the waitlist—which often numbers more than 150 individuals—Smith said the change is significant.
“The biggest impact is how that population has impacted our community negatively. That has diminished greatly between HOPE Village and the programs at the corps that serve the same population. We meet a variety of their needs directly through Army services,” he said. “That matters, how the community is impacted on a larger scale… The community as a whole is being stabilized through this program.”
Today, city council meetings have a different tone, Smith said. Neighbors ask to lend their services, and volunteer to do things like lead crafts and hold a community barbecue at HOPE Village.
“I’m not saying that we’ve changed 100 percent of the minds in Longview, however, the biggest challenge we had was with the
Hope Team reaches Santa Monica’s streets
Effort helps people experiencing homelessness with outreach, support and resources to rebuild their lives.
BY HALEY OSNESS
As dawn breaks over Santa Monica, Salvation Army outreach workers take to the streets alongside the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) to engage with individuals experiencing homelessness. The group offers them resources, guiding them toward shelter and support services.
The joint effort between the SMPD, the Department of Mental Health (DMH), The Salvation Army, and other social service organizations meets people where they are to help them overcome obstacles and gain stability.
The Salvation Army Santa Monica Hope Team joined in November 2022 after receiving a grant from the SMPD. The funding supports their mission to build trust and connect individuals with long-term support through Salvation Army programs and community resources.
“The police conduct weekly walks to inform unhoused neighbors that they need to relocate,” said Santa Monica Corps Hope Team Outreach Worker Jose Puga. “As the Hope Team, we join to tell them about alternative options to sleeping on the streets.”
The Hope Team operates as part of the Homeless Liaison Program (HLP) with the SMPD, which follows an engagement model focused on relationship building, networking, outreach, education and enforcement.
When the SMPD plans an outreach day, they call the Hope Team to accompany them, often going out at 5 a.m.
“It’s a way to advocate for people experiencing homelessness in Santa Monica,” said Captain James Fleming, Santa Monica Corps Officer. “The team connects people to whatever the next step is to get them the support they need, whether it’s shelter, medical care, substance abuse treatment, mental health services or care homes.”
The Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count recorded 774 people experiencing homelessness in Santa Monica in 2024, a 6 percent decrease from 2023.
In 2024, the Hope Team engaged with over 350 individuals, approximately 108 of whom secured interim or perma-
nent housing through the program, according to Fleming.
“We call it the Hope Team because they’re bringing hope to those who need it most,” Fleming said.
The Hope Team consists of Salvation Army employees and volunteers, more than half of whom have experienced homelessness and addiction before finding support and recovery through The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC).
“We make connections with people because we can understand their perspective,” Puga said. “We just tell them, ‘I’ve been in your shoes before; I understand how you may be feeling.’”
Puga, a 2020 graduate of the Santa Monica ARC, knows the importance of patience and active listening when supporting those struggling with addiction or homelessness firsthand.
Salvation Army, AmeriCorps combat rural homelessness in Southern Oregon
Grant provides funding for services in Grants Pass and Medford.
BY KAREN GLEASON
Things have changed in Grants Pass, Oregon, since Captains Taurean and Yohani Ortiz arrived just over a year ago to serve the community as corps officers.
“The need is significant,” Yohani Ortiz said. “We’ve seen a 40 percent increase in requests for assistance, often food, but especially rental assistance. It’s not just being completely unhoused, but it’s experiencing poverty on different levels.”
Looking for a way to create longterm changes in people’s lives, she worked with the nearby Medford Corps to obtain a first-ever AmeriCorps grant for Southern Oregon, aimed at combating homelessness.
Farther north, Portland’s homelessness crisis is well-documented, but Southern Oregon is not immune to homelessness, despite its smaller population.
According to HUD’s 2024 Annual Homeless Assessment Report, Oregon’s homeless population increased 13.6 percent from 2023–2024, with the biggest spike, at 20 percent, in Oregon’s rural areas, which generally have fewer services to help the unhoused.
The AmeriCorps grant allows The Salvation Army to increase those ser-
vices. Ortiz, who oversees the program, noted AmeriCorps’ mission aligns with The Salvation Army’s.
“The Salvation Army aims to meet human needs, to serve the community,” she said. “It literally aligns with exactly what AmeriCorps is doing…With AmeriCorps, it’s a community effort, and we’re reaching way more people than we could have on our own.”
After an initial $74,000 planning grant, AmeriCorps provided $269,999 to fund program services from October 2024 through September 2025. The funding allows The Salvation Army to provide service opportunities to 10 AmeriCorps members across four different sites in both Grants Pass and
Medford. Service members receive a living allowance and, upon completion of the program, an education grant.
The Salvation Army was able to recruit and select AmeriCorps members best suited for the project. Ortiz said many who came on board—first joining AmeriCorps and then applying for the project—had themselves received help from The Salvation Army and understood community needs.
Now months into the year-long program, The Salvation Army is seeing results in its focus areas: financial assistance, case management/goal planning, volunteer engagement and workforce development.
Adam Flermoen was losing his circle of friends. After spending years in Special Olympics and other programs to assist with living with cerebral palsy, he was turning 18 and aging out of the communities he’d known for years.
His mom, Diana Flermoen, was concerned.
“He needed community because he had left all his friends and all his socialization,” she said.
Without many options in their hometown of Yuma, Arizona, she remembered the important bonds her family developed when her younger daughters were involved in local play groups. She called the mom of one of Adam’s friends and made a pitch. Would she be interested in a group for disabled adults?
“I just figured, who cares if our kids are older? They still need play,” Flermoen said. “Parents still need to play. Let’s play.”
From that conversation, Flermoen launched Circle of Friends, which provides a variety of activities for disabled adults. The program proved so successful, Yuma’s recreation department offered to host some of its activities.
While Adam, now 39, and his peers have thrived with the support of the group, Flermoen realized last year that Circle of Friends was missing a spiritual element. She approached The Salvation Army Yuma Corps to see if it would be willing to offer an annual Vacation Bible School for disabled adults.
“They need not only structure and ac-
tivities to keep them engaged but also they need Christ,” said Yuma Corps Officer Lt. Amber Herzog.
As a result, Bible Adventure Thursdays was born last spring, providing a specialized VBS every Thursday evening in March.
“This is a great opportunity for us and the volunteers that we have to be able to reach out to these families and say, ‘Hey, you’re welcome here,” Herzog said. “For them to know we love you, and God loves you, and this is something that’s special for you. It’s something that isn’t just adapted for them, but it’s intended for them.”
At the heart of the weekly program is
a time for worship, tapping into the Army’s long heritage of music.
“They are such great teachers of joy,” Herzog said. “Honestly, just hanging out with them and seeing them worship has been an awesome inspiration for me.”
Flermoen agreed.
“It is so touching because it’s the sincere heart of worship,” Flermoen said. “It just touches my heart when I see it.”
In addition to providing music and other activities, the weekly sessions include a Caregiver Corner. Herzog said the corner provides bonding space for parents and guardians so they “can get a little TLC.”
“It’s a place where we can pray for
‘Recovery could be beautiful’
At the San Francisco Harbor Light Center, Chris Solis found a new way forward.
BY KAREN GLEASON
“I didn’t think I’d ever reach the point where I was sick and tired of being sick and tired, but I did,” said Chris Solis, who at 42 had spent most of his adult life in jail before finding his way to The Salvation Army Harbor Light program in San Francisco.
Solis grew up in San Jose, California, with his parents and sister. Although he said he grew up with “nice values,” by age 14 he was drinking and using marijuana every day. He stayed in school, though, and held parttime jobs.
At 18, he applied to be a fish and game ranger, his dream job—he loved the outdoors. Meanwhile, he continued to experiment with drugs and discovered methamphetamine.
“I learned how much power drugs had, and I never had no power in life,” he said. “So now I learned, wow, drugs are powerful. And the meth made me feel free.”
When the police pulled him over at 19 for reckless driving, they found a gun in his car.
“From there, it never stopped,” Solis said. “I couldn’t get the ranger job now, so my dreams were crushed. I thought, well, there’s no going back. I’ve got a felony now, my life is ruined. The drugs are making me feel better, so let me just go this way.”
He said he continued to use and sell drugs, including heroin and fentanyl. And he continued to get caught.
“I did a lot of prison time—I kept on going back and forth,” he said. “Every time I got out, I would give myself a chance.”
Somehow, he said, he would manage to get a job, a place to live and a car.
“I’m great with people,” Solis said. “I love people. I have a great heart. And when I’m sober, I have a heart of gold. I have my mind clear, and I want to do amazing things.”
But the cycle continued and in March 2022, after a dramatic high-speed car chase, he surrendered to police.
“I gave up to them,” he said. “And I promised myself that day that I’m not going to use drugs again. No more.”
Facing a life sentence, he said he did what he could to prove he had changed. He took classes and attended Bible studies. At his court appearance, the judge agreed he could enter a recovery program.
He didn’t take to the first program he entered but when he asked around on the streets, he heard about “The Sally”—The Salvation Army’s Harbor Light program.
Harbor Light is a clinical program for men and women, licensed by the state of California as a dual diagnosis facility. Major Tammy Larson, Harbor Light Center Administrator, said many Harbor Light participants take prescription medications and/or participate in medically assisted treatment for addiction.
As a licensed facility subject to state mandates, The Harbor Light’s spiritual activities cannot be mandatory but Larson said they can teach the 12 steps, each of which includes a biblical principle. And if they wish, participants can attend church at The Salvation Army Lighthouse Corps.
During the day, Harbor Light participants take classes, including those focusing on relapse prevention and life skills. Larson said during state inspections, the center must show residents have completed 20 hours of class time weekly.
She explained Harbor Light’s three components: Recovery Wellness, the detox program, is where everyone starts. From there, participants move to a six-month res-
them and pray for the unique challenges that they’re going through,” Herzog said.
This year, the weekly program has expanded its offerings to provide specialized resources, including an expert who teaches behavioral management techniques.
With the success of Circle of Friends and Bible Adventure Thursdays, Flermoen has been asked to share her experience with other communities.
“Everybody needs to be fed spiritually,” she said. “It’s such a blessing to see them welcome the Word of God. They welcome being part of the spiritual community of The Salvation Army.”
She is hoping other corps community centers across the country will adopt similar programs.
“God is our strength and our comfort and our guide, and he’s going to provide because he loves our children,” Flermoen said. “But the thing is, if we’re not grounded in the Word, if we’re not in a community that encourages that, we can find ourselves in despair, sometimes in depression, finding it hard just to do one more day.”
In the meantime, Flermoen said she’s grateful for the support of the Yuma Corps and its vision to reach all members of the community, including those who are frequently overlooked.
“The Lord has called us to proclaim the gospel where he puts us, right? And to bring hope and comfort and healing to the people who God has put around us,” she said. “This journey has taught us a lot, but it also has taught us that the gospel brings hope and gives us the knowledge on how to navigate through this life.” NFC
idential program. After that, they can qualify for The Salvation Army’s transitional living program at the Joseph McFee Center. These are all key components of The Way Out, The Salvation Army’s recovery-focused homelessness initiative in San Francisco.
“Administrating a clinical abstinence-based spiritual drug and alcohol recovery program has been very
Bible Adventure Thursdays provided specialized programming every week during March. |PHOTO COURTESY YUMA CORPS
Chris Solis |PHOTO COURTESY TAMMY LARSON
ON A GOOD NOTE
Freer Forte music program offers affordable lessons to help kids develop skills and gain performance experience.
BY HALEY OSNESS
The halls of The Salvation Army Anaheim (California) Red Shield come alive with music every Wednesday evening, transforming the community center into a hub of melody and rhythm as kids gather to learn, play and share their love for music.
The Freer Forte music program, named after donor Lynn Freer, launched in fall 2023. Freer donated to The Salvation Army to expand music lesson opportunities for school-aged children.
In line with Freer’s vision, the program offers high-quality, low-cost music lessons for students ages 7-14 across Orange County—and beyond. For $100, students can enroll in 16-week sessions in the spring or fall or a $50, 7-week summer session. Musicians can choose to learn drums, guitar, ukulele, keyboard, singing or musical theater.
The program offers scholarships to help with tuition, instrument rentals and private lessons for an additional fee. At the end of the sessions, students perform in a recital to showcase what they’ve learned.
“Lynn envisioned a centralized place for students to gather and learn music and instruments that align with their interests,” said Anaheim Red Shield Creative Arts and Music Director Alisa Hopper. “We’re seeing the vision come to life through Freer Forte.”
After launching the program, Hopper hired four professional musicians with years of experience in the music industry to help teach the classes. She said some have won Grammy Awards, performed on Broadway and recorded songs featured in films.
Each instructor specializes in their area of focus
and is skilled in teaching music theory, technique and performance.
“God really blessed us with the best teachers imaginable,” Hopper said. “They bring real-life experience and a genuine passion for teaching the next generation.”
From drum lessons on upside-down Home Depot buckets to acting out a dramatic scene in front of their peers, kids are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and embrace creativity during the classes.
Freer Frote enrolls 75-100 students in each session, with each class containing around eight students to maintain a focused group environment.
“Our instructors tailor lessons to meet each student’s needs while fostering group practice,” Hopper said. “Their ability to teach individually and keep everyone engaged is impressive.”
Hopper designed the curriculum to help students become familiar with their instrument or vocal skills, ensuring they can sight-read music and understand concepts like melodic structures, phrasing and articulation. And they prepare for the recital.
“Students work with teachers to decide what song they will perform,” Hopper said. “We always try to encourage uplifting, God-focused songs.”
For 11-year-old Jacob Gutierrez, the music lessons provide a welcome respite after a long school day.
“Music is like a nice break,” he said, while practicing for his guitar lesson. “I can have fun and do something I like.”
Jacob has taken lessons for a few months and said
he’s always been interested in learning music, with rock as his favorite genre.
“The teachers make the lessons fun,” he said. “Coming to class is something I get excited for every Wednesday.”
James Grover, a guitar instructor at Freer Forte with 33 years of teaching experience, said the program offers students like Jacob benefits beyond learning music.
“In a time when many kids are hooked on video games and social media, music provides a creative outlet that encourages focus, discipline and expression,” he said.
He added when kids commit to learning music, it helps them develop qualities of confidence and perseverance.
“It’s a great way for them to have fun while also developing skills that could help them in the future,” Grover said.
Freer Forte singing instructor Kimbra Westervelt said she has witnessed similar benefits.
“One of my students is a 7-year-old girl with a beautiful voice, but she’s always been a little shy,” Westervelt said. “In the past two months, I’ve watched her skills and confidence grow with each lesson.”
Westervelt said she sees the group setting benefiting social skills and helping kids build the courage to express themselves in front of others.
Looking ahead, Westervelt said they are in the process of putting bands together to provide more opportunities for students to engage and collaborate.
“It’s wonderful to see how music gives kids a voice, not just on stage, but in the world,” Westervelt said. “Bringing opportunities to learn music to more kids and communities can be life-changing for so many.” NFC
Petaluma ham radio room adds to disaster response efforts
When cell phone towers fail, ham radio proves effective.
BY KELLY DAWSON
Most of the time, Petaluma, California is peaceful. Set about an hour north of the Golden Gate Bridge, where a downtown of historic buildings creates a calming backdrop of predictability, this small city isn’t known for being anything besides tranquil—not like the enduring excitement of San Francisco or the buzzworthy wines of Napa. And if it were up to Tony Kamby and Peter Parks, they’d keep it that way.
“My family and I have lived here for 39 years, and the population has doubled in that time,” Kamby said. “But it’s a beautiful place to live.”
Yet every once in a while, and a lot more frequently it seems, tranquility gives way to upheaval. Earthquakes disrupt routines whenever the fault lines underfoot shift course, steeling everyone for the “big one” whispered about for generations.
Rain comes, and comes, flooding new and established neighborhoods with too much water before disappearing from the forecast for far too long.
But the fires bring new levels of destruction. When the Tubbs Fire burned in October 2017, the steady landscape became unrecognizably dangerous. At the time, it was California’s worst natural disaster, claiming 22 lives and 4,600 homes.
But Kamby and Parks, who are both volunteers for The Salvation Army, remember a silver lining of that fire. It was the disaster that showcased just how important their work with ham radios was to the community.
“Several cell towers burned down
in the Tubbs Fire, which meant that emergency personnel—who had cellular-based communications—and regular people could not use their dispatches or cell phones to know what was going on,” Kamby said. “Ham radios, on the other hand, worked just fine.”
Using the same radio frequencies that made this form of communication revolutionary in the 20th century, Kamby and Parks assisted emergency services—including The Salvation Army Emergency/Disaster
Services—and neighbors in real-time. They could quickly identify family members who had sought shelter at separate locations. They could direct food and water to one place and diapers and cots to another. When talking on the phone or texting in a thread could easily get signals crossed, only one person can speak at a time on a ham radio, but everyone on the channel can hear what they have to say. That makes it easier to relay information across a network, from personal ham radios to ones put in place for first responders.
“We do our best to speak clearly and concisely,” Kamby said. “It also helps that sometimes we recognize each other’s voices.”
It took a few days for cell phones to start working again, but by that time, the network of ham radios had long since hit its stride. After that, their importance to Petaluma and surrounding cities became especially clear.
“In an emergency, you can’t do things the way you’ve always done them,” Parks said. “It’s important to plan ahead and prepare, and a ham radio is a reliable way to do that.”
Instructor James Grover teaches beginner guitar to a small group.
|PHOTO COURTESY THE SALVATION ARMY ORANGE COUNTY
A dedicated ham radio room at The Salvation Army Petaluma (California) Corps proves this equipment is still necessary when it counts.
|COURTESY TONY KAMBY
Volunteering is their love language
Mother-daughter volunteering duo provides translation at The Salvation Army.
BY LORI ARNOLD
Cathy Ramirez’s early childhood memories include spending long days in the cramped quarters of her family’s two-bedroom mobile home across the street from the county jail.
One of eight children, her family often shared the space with extended family— at times maximizing the occupancy to 20 people. Her father worked hard and was the sole provider.
“I remember that we were the family that was helped,” Ramirez said. “I’m never going to forget how happy I was when I started [elementary school] and then, all of a sudden, they knew that we were in need.”
She remembers what it was like to receive help.
“And it was just like, ‘Oh my gosh. I had a Christmas,’” she said. “I remember receiving a doll. For a very long time, I didn’t have anything.”
That gratitude has spun into a compassion she now instilling into her own children, Ibeth Ramirez, a 19-year-old engineering student at the University of Arizona, and Luz, 12, who recently joined her mom and sister in volunteering with The Salvation Army in Tucson.
“I have to give back to the community because the community gave to us when we were in need,” Cathy Ramirez said. “The power of giving back and helping others, it’s just so rewarding.”
She became involved with The Salvation Army after the organization reached out to see if they could assist struggling
students at the charter school where she is the office manager.
In 2021, Cathy Ramirez was invited to volunteer at The Salvation Army’s annual Christmas toy distribution, an offer she and her oldest daughter immediately accepted.
“Cathy has such a way of making people feel really comfortable and very, very recognized,” said Kristin Ohman, the Volunteer and Seasonal Projects Coordinator in Tucson.
Their first outreach with The Salvation Army fell on Ibeth Ramirez’s birthday, which Cathy Ramirez said was a gift of its own. More recently, the pair helped
with their first Stuff the Bus drive, a Walmart-hosted toy collection campaign that provides gifts for The Salvation Army’s Christmas distribution.
“Their enthusiasm is contagious,” Ohman said. “They are never without a smile on their faces. They really share their own personal happiness and joy with others. And it’s just really nice to have a volunteer team like that that I can depend on and that is just so enjoyable and fun to work with.”
Although parent-child volunteers are not new to the local Salvation Army, the Ramirezes stand out for their ability to translate for the center’s Spanish-speak-
ing clients, which provides a layer of dignity to the outreach.
“We want to make sure that each of our families feel important and they feel special and heard and listened to,” Ohman said. “It makes a difference to have someone that speaks your native tongue.”
Ibeth Ramirez said she was eager to serve alongside her mom at The Salvation Army.
“I think that kind of shows the generational aspect because obviously that’s going to make me want to volunteer with my kids and then their kids,” Ibeth Ramirez said. “It’s a bonding thing.”
She said offering her language interpretation skills is particularly meaningful.
“I think it’s really important to make sure that people don’t feel unwelcome due to the fact that there’s a language barrier,” she said. “The fact that my mom and I are there to be able to break down that wall and give them that sense of relief that they can choose something without having a little barrier between is really important.”
Another benefit, she added, is being able to help parents navigate age-appropriate gifts for their children. Unlike toy drives that distribute pre-wrapped gifts, in Tucson, The Salvation Army creates an atmosphere where parents shop for specific toys for their kids.
“Because I’m a little younger I can say, ‘Oh, maybe they’ll like this,’” Ibeth Ramirez said.
She is grateful to put love into action while still a teenager, noting it’s a foundation that will carry her well into adulthood.
“It’s so powerful knowing that I give back with nothing in return is such a good feeling,” she said. “And I’m glad that I get to experience that with my mom.” NFC
Volunteering on the upswing at Salvation Army locations across the West
Giving back bounces back post pandemic.
BY HILLARY JACKSON
One sign life is returning to “normal” post-pandemic? Volunteering.
Research from the U.S. Census Bureau and AmeriCorps found nearly 30 percent of the U.S. population over 16 formally volunteered through an organization from September 2022-September 2023—a figure similar to that from pre-pandemic life.
Those volunteers served an estimated 4.99 billion hours, resulting in over $167.2 billion in economic value during that time frame—the current estimated national value of an hour of volunteer time is $33.49, according to Independent Sector.
In The Salvation Army Western Territory, statistics confirm this trend. From 2021-2024, the number of volunteers registered throughout the western U.S. grew nearly 16 percent, approaching figures from 2020, when The Salvation Army increased efforts to address the increased levels of need spurred on by the pandemic.
“I believe people are seeking meaningful ways to connect with their communities after the prolonged isolation of COVID,” said Territorial Director of Volunteer Engagement Stacy Dertien. “They are making a conscious effort to collaborate with others and rebuild connections.”
Dertien added that social distancing led to the rise of virtual and hybrid volunteer opportunities, which made
volunteering more accessible to a broader range of people, something reflected in the report from the U.S. Census Bureau and AmeriCorps.
According to the report, which first measured virtual volunteering in 2023, nearly 20 percent of formal volunteers served either partially or completely online, amounting to some 13 million individuals, 10 percent of whom reported having a disability. Sixty percent were under 55.
Researchers have dubbed the post-COVID volunteer increase, the “volunteer rebound.” So where is it happening in the West?
At The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in Phoenix, volunteer numbers have grown by 162 percent from 2021-2024, something Administrative Assistant and Volunteer Coordinator Sarah Cowan attributes to the sheer number of opportunities available at the center, which features both a community fitness center and church congregation.
Across the Kroc’s community center side, a number of volunteer opportunities exist through dedicated programs for sports, tutoring and job coaching, among others. On the Kroc Church side, teams for hospitality, Kroc Cafe, welcoming guests, prayer and children’s ministry, are among the opportunities to get involved. Then there are the big events, when companies bring 50-100 volunteers, and high school service programs, which add to the community impact.
“Volunteers help us as the Army, but it’s also helping our community and the members of our community
get skills so they can then get a job and support themselves and set themselves up for success,” Cowan said.
Corps Officer Captain Caroline Rowe said having a dedicated volunteer coordinator in Cowan has helped the Phoenix Kroc Center in a number of ways, including streamlining the volunteer onboarding process and tracking volunteer statistics, which makes the experience better for those serving, too.
“We’re in a really high needs, low-income neighborhood, and so when we have volunteers that step in… we’re saving money where we would have had to pay somebody, so it helps us create more margin. And without margin, there is no mission,” said Rowe. “We’ve tried to really integrate mission into everything we do… So we have volunteers that come on, they can’t help but hear the name of Jesus.”
Additionally, Rowe said Associate Corps Officer Captain Jessica Pearce developed a QR code leading to a landing page full of opportunities for church attendees to get involved. It’s featured in the bulletin and corps calendar for easy access.
“It helps people have more buy-in with the church,” Cowan said. “Like, ‘This is my church. I serve here. I’m a part of this. I’m valuable.’”
Several of the Kroc Center’s community programs have served as pipelines for volunteers’ personal growth. Cowan said during the summer day camp program, the center has a Junior Leader program for 14-17
Luz Ramirez, Ibeth Ramirez and Kathy Ramirez (far left) stand among volunteers at a toy-shopping event.
|PHOTO COURTESY CATHY AND IBETH RAMIREZ
40 years of ‘Faithfulness’ in the Marshall Islands
Anniversary celebration highlights growth in a remote region.
BY HILLARY JACKSON
Forty years ago, The Salvation Army’s work officially began in the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI).
For Overton Clarence, it was a dream come true.
Years prior, Clarence had received a War Cry from a U.S. Navy chaplain, and his interest in The Salvation Army grew. From the Marshall Islands—a remote chain of volcanic islands and coral atolls in the Central Pacific, nearly 5,000 miles from San Francisco—he read of the Army’s work for those in need.
When he assessed the needs around him, especially for youth, with reports claiming many experienced a lack of direction, unemployment, teen pregnancy and alcoholism, he believed there was one organization for the job.
Clarence wrote to the General and Salvation Army leaders around the world for help. The Salvation Army sent how-to books, materials and several copies of “Orders and Regulations” before teams were able to travel to the Marshall Islands to assess the situation and determine next steps.
After a decade of Clarence’s efforts, and a number of challenges, The Salvation Army’s work officially began in Majuro, with Clarence as the Corps Sergeant Major. When the first corps building opened in Majuro in 1989, Majors Benton and Pearl Markam were the first appointed officers.
Today, The Salvation Army’s presence in the Marshall Islands spans nine corps—Rita, Laura, Arno, Ine, Ebeye, Jabor, Jaluit, Narmiej and Imiej. Clarence was promoted to Glory in 2004, but his dream has been realized beyond what he could have imagined.
His legacy lives on in the Marshall Islands and through his granddaughter, Cadet Sharon Reimers, who joined in the anniversary celebrations as part of her spring campaign as a second-year cadet at the College for Officer Training at Crestmont.
Overton Clarence
The Western Territory gave each corps in the Marshall Islands a flag, which were dedicated during the weekend. |PHOTO COURTESY DOUGLAS RILEY
Leaders from Territorial Headquarters and Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Divisional Headquarters pose with the soldiers, friends, corps officers, ministry leaders and coordinators of The Salvation Army in the Marshall Islands during the 40th anniversary celebrations.
|PHOTO COURTESY DOUGLAS RILEY
“It’s great just to be a part of something that my grandfather started, and to see the work that has been developed from just one corps,” Reimers said.
Reimers, along with other members of the Champions of the Mission session and College for Officer Training (CFOT) at Crestmont leaders Majors Terry and Rutendo Masango, traveled to the Marshall Islands in advance of the 40-year celebration events to do ministry work in the outer islands of Ebeye and Arno, engaging in evangelism, discipleship efforts, and supporting local corps officers in visitations, Bible studies, worship services, youth and children’s ministries.
“For the cadets, this experience will challenge them to adapt their theological training to a cross-cultural context, deepening their understanding of ministry in global settings and strengthening their call to officership,” said Terry Masango ahead of the travels.
The 40-year celebration weekend, planned by the Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division, was held in Majuro March 21-23. The weekend took the theme “Faithful” and centered on the message found in Deuteronomy 7:9: Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments.
In addition to those present from CFOT, Territorial Leaders Commissioners Douglas and Colleen Riley, Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries Colonels Eddie and Genevera Vincent and Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Divisional Leaders Majors Anie and Troy Trimmer were in attendance among some 600 attendees.
“We saw, firsthand, the faithfulness of God’s work within the Marshall Islands over the last 40 years,” Troy Trimmer said. “Representatives from every corps within the Marshall Islands were in attendance, many taking boat rides that took three days to get them finally to Majuro.”
The weekend began with a Friday evening holiness meet-
ing, including a dedication of corps flags for each corps that were provided by the Western Territory; dance, ukulele and tambourine presentations from Rita and Laura corps youth; the sharing of The Salvation Army’s history in RMI; a recognition of pioneers; and a message from the Territorial Commander on the faithfulness of God.
“In the faithfulness of God, we see a reflection of the most profound aspect of his character—which is unchanging, unwavering and unshakeable, and it deserves our acknowledgment and praise,” Riley said. “And that’s what we want to do.”
The five pioneers of the ministry were honored in the celebrations, including Reimer’s grandparents. She said watching her Bubu (grandma) receive the Pioneer Award in honor of her and her late Jimma (grandpa) was particularly impactful.
“I am filled with gratitude as I witnessed my grandparents receiving an award for their unwavering faithfulness,” she said. “This recognition not only honors their commitment
God is faithful: Reflections from the Marshall Islands
BY ZECH GUESS, CADET
Between Australia and Hawaii lie the Marshall Islands, where our Champions of the Mission team served alongside The Salvation Army celebrating their 40th anniversary of ministry there.
For two weeks, we experienced profound culture shock alongside extraordinary beauty and hospitality. What struck me most was how this generosity flowed not from material wealth but from hearts overflowing with God’s love.
God moved powerfully among the people and within my heart, reminding me he is enough in every situation. The sight of Ebeye’s makeshift houses filled with smiling children with so little yet so much joy touched me deeply. Yet my heart broke seeing the hopelessness in some adults’ eyes—a mother’s blank stare as children played nearby, a man drinking while gazing emptily into the distance.
Children as young as two wandered without supervision, some barefoot, others in oversized shoes. Their joyful shouts of “Iakwe!” and “I love you!” alongside countless high-fives broke my heart in a different way. So did the hand-painted welcome sign bearing our names and the church filled with food, dancing and warm hospitality.
Marygrace, a quiet woman caring for her young grandson Tio after her husband’s death, left a lasting impression. Tio, only six, greeted us with infectious joy and curiosity, communicating through gestures and smiles despite our language barrier.
Marygrace shared how many island men struggled with alcohol abuse. They would often go away to work on the nearby military base, only to return home and drink their time and worries away. It was a cycle of heartbreak and hopelessness turned visible. Yet her faith remained unshaken, embodying Romans 12:12: Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. She prayed these men would someday abandon drinking to lead their families in faith.
Her hope wasn’t naive but formed through sorrow, sustained by love and rooted in Christ—a hope shared throughout the anniversary celebration, especially during the March of Witness when hundreds filled the streets singing and proclaiming God’s work.
The Marshall Islands may appear small on maps, but the faith I encountered was anything but. I arrived thinking I had something to offer but left having received far more. From joyful children with dirt-covered hands to faithful believers like Marygrace carrying both grief and hope, I witnessed the gospel lived powerfully.
Their challenges are real, but so is their faith—isn’t that everyone’s story? Christ appears in brokenness through a handshake, shared meal, whispered prayer or children’s laughter.
I learned that God’s kingdom transcends geography and language, existing wherever his people love deeply, serve humbly and hope fiercely. May we all carry a bit of that Marshallese faith in our hearts, ready for wherever he sends us next.
NFC
Throughout the weekend, various corps presented dance performances.
|PHOTO COURTESY DOUGLAS RILEY
Youth stand during Saturday’s March of Witness. |PHOTO COURTESY DOUGLAS RILEY
The 600 some participants in the “Faithful” weekend took to the streets in Majuro for a celebratory March of Witness.
|PHOTO COURTESY DOUGLAS RILEY
(L-r) Commissioners Douglas and Colleen Riley, Colonels Eddie and Genevera Vincent and Majors Troy and Anie Trimmer pose during the weekend’s festivities.
|PHOTO COURTESY DOUGLAS RILEY
40 YEARS FROM PAGE 9
but also reflects the faithfulness of God in their lives.”
On Saturday, the celebration took to the streets for a March of Witness, escorted by RMI police.
“What a glorious time with the March of Witness—a sea of white uniforms, and red, yellow and blue Salvation Army flags followed the procession of praise music through the streets of Majuro all the way to the corps,” Trimmer said. “Spontaneous dancing erupted at the conclusion of that route, including our own Commissioner Douglas Riley, dancing in the streets for Jesus.”
Following lunch, the group split up for men’s, women’s and youth rallies, and Trimmer said the presence of the Holy Spirit was evident in all.
Sunday’s holiness meeting included the hymn “Great is Thy Faithfulness,” with presentations from the Rita Corps Home League and youth. Additionally, Douglas Riley enrolled 15 senior soldiers and 20 junior soldiers. Major Troy Trimmer gave the message, and Riley closed the meeting with a benediction and blessing.
“God has indeed been faithful, and we are counting on his faithfulness for the next 40 years,” Riley said.
Every corps then participated with dancing and songs, which went well into the evening.
“We had a successful and fruitful celebration,” said RMI Coordinator Lt. Colonel Evelyn Posadas. “We are grateful to God for blessing our 40th Anniversary in the Marshall Islands. We were all reminded of the blessings of God for our region. He is faithful, indeed.”
During the celebration events, Klawock (Alaska) Corps Officer Captain Luke Betti served as a translator. Betti grew up in the Marshall Islands and re -
turned home after 13 years away. He attended the first corps, which is located in the village he was born and raised in.
“The majority of the people in my village attended the corps,” he said. “I was pretty much involved in the church since I was young until I graduated from high school and moved to Hawaii in 2000…I am who I am because of God, my family, all my former corps officers, Sunday school teachers and all the service corps teams that spent their summer teaching me God’s Word.”
Betti said he was excited to return to where it all started—to worship and sing in his native language and see loved ones. Another perk? Sharing his “adventure” in The Salvation Army.
“If God can use me, he can use everyone,” he said, adding he hopes to make it to the 50-year celebration “jubilee,” which he said is culturally significant.
But to get to 50 years, the work continues—and according to RMI Coordinator Lt. Colonel Leopoldo Posadas, there are many opportunities for The Salvation Army to engage. The government has identified human trafficking, mental health and teen pregnancy as the primary social challenges.
“The Salvation Army today should be ready to assist and support the program of the government to these challenges,” he said. “The Salvation Army should intentionally be part of how these issues are discussed and how The Salvation Army will support and help that is aligned with our mission.”
During Reimer’s time serving in Arno Atoll, she said she was impacted by the ministry of presence, love and care there, which revealed what God is doing within the community and the corps.
She witnessed one woman, in her early 20s, who
DONATIONS DEVELOPMENT
sorts donated items into two groups: those ready for resale in thrift stores and fabrics to be sold or distributed in bulk to organizations that repurpose textiles into new products.
The proceeds help fund the Adult Rehabilitation Centers (ARC), which provide residential recovery services.
Donations Development Director Atticus Firey started the Donations Development Team. He said their efforts are creating new opportunities to extend the life of fabrics, keep thrift stores wellstocked and make a positive environmental impact.
“Since starting in June 2024, we’ve brought on board 142 corporate partners who have donated a combined 282 times,” Firey said, adding most donations include truckloads full of pallets.
Ongoing partnerships for donations include HomeGoods, T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, Zara, Walmart, Nordstrom and more.
For items and materials that can’t be sold as is, The Salvation Army partners with fashion design students at Southern California colleges through its “Transformed Treasures” program, an initiative
to repurpose materials into new clothing or other creative items.
Alongside these efforts, legislation to help manage the textile waste crisis was introduced in California. In September 2024, the Responsible Textile Recovery Act (SB 707) was established to address textile waste by holding clothing producers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products. The law is the first of its kind in the U.S.
“It will set a new standard for sustainable textile management,” Firey said.
“It’s a major development because now merchants have to be aware of where their items end up.”
The act encourages merchants and producers to adopt more sustainable practices, such as designing or selling products for durability, repair and reuse.
“The goal is to promote a circular economy that minimizes textile waste through different strategies like designing for longevity and using recyclable materials that can be transformed into something new,” said Regional Donations Coordinator Bianca Nemtoc.
Nemtoc, whose role on the Donations
had survived abuse and developed mental illness, who spends her days wandering around the atoll. The ministry leaders of Arno Corps, Necklace and Merryrose Juonran, fed her and have assisted her with material needs, including food security and housing.
“She loves The Salvation Army and knows when the programs are held,” Reimers said. “She would sit in the back corner and listen.”
Despite the limited resources on the island, the leaders didn’t stop reaching out to the people and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.
“This kind of ministry is what the Army is all about,” Riley said. “God takes delight in the ministries that are happening in RMI.”
The territory has additionally gifted solar refrigeration units to each corps, a new truck and new cement basketball court, sports equipment and Starlink for each corps to enable communication with each other and divisional headquarters.
“It sounds so basic but to these faithful officers and soldiers of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, these are critical needs,” Riley said. “This is where the World Services funds from soldiers across the territory help to meet needs.”
As Reimers prepares for officership, this experience was particularly meaningful.
“I am filled with joy for the opportunity to be here and to experience God’s presence and faithfulness alongside all the corps officers, session mates, leaders and the community,” she said. “I pray that my session, the Champions of the Mission, and I continue to be good witnesses and faithful followers in our mission to spread his gospel to everyone while meeting the community’s needs as God has called us to.” NFC
Development Team focuses on building and maintaining corporate partnerships, said the new act will require importers, manufacturers, distributors and retailers to participate in recycling and reuse programs, often through nonprofit thrift stores, positioning The Salvation Army as a key partner for many major brands.
She said because the legislation is new, the state is still developing processes for implementing and mandating the cycle.
To stay involved in the textile recycling industry, the Donations Development Team has joined Accelerating Circularity—a nonprofit focused on transforming the textile industry through circular practices—as a member of its project board.
“Accelerating Circularity will reach out to suppliers, collectors, recyclers and manufacturers to put all the dots together and help create a continuous cycle for textiles,” Firey said.
As a project board member, Firey said The Salvation Army can stay updated on textile industry innovations and build partnerships. Additionally, Accelerating Circularity’s work in tracking and coordinating material transportation will help manufacturers meet the requirements of SB 707.
Zara, one of the manufacturers involved, has made The Salvation Army their national solutions provider to help meet the law’s requirements. Firey said Zara has placed Salvation Army donation drop boxes in all of its California stores to comply with the law and make it easier for customers to donate.
“We now have multiple avenues of getting clothing and materials to us,” he said.
When developing partnerships, Firey said he prioritizes sharing The Salvation Army’s mission and impact on communities. He said this often includes giving tours of ARC facilities while meeting with potential partners.
“We see that retailers want to collaborate and get involved because of our longstanding legacy of serving communities,” he said. “I’ve seen how our mission resonates with people, inspiring them to support The Salvation Army.”
Nemtoc said keeping items out of landfills while supporting Salvation Army programs and missions benefits everyone involved.
“It’s an ideal opportunity for manufacturers to support communities while protecting the planet for future generations,” Nemtoc said. NFC
(L-r) Cadets Brianna Lamb, Zech Guess, David Aviles and Jon-Marc Lamb stand with youth from Ebeye.
|PHOTO COURTESY TERRY MASANGO
Cadets from the College of Officer Training at Crestmont hold the banner during the March of Witness.
|PHOTO COURTESY TERRY MASANGO
neighborhood, and I really think we’ve bridged that gap now,” Smith said.
Support for sustainable change
Once someone moves into HOPE Village, they receive case management to support them in attaining permanent housing. Since the program’s opening, this has grown to offer expanded life skills programming and, recently, support after someone achieves housing.
“We do follow them with case management for the first 90 days when they leave, which is turning out to be really something that was needed since the beginning, but we now have the capacity to do that,” said HOPE Village Site Manager Hollie Hillman. “It’s been really helpful.”
Currently, the waitlist to get into a HOPE Village unit is about 190 people long, Hillman said. To move into HOPE Village, an individual does not have to be clean of substances. However, they are not allowed to use them on the premises, and doing so will result in an exit from the program.
In the initial stages of HOPE Village, an exit for drug use would result in an individual having to start the wait list process over again if they wished to come back. In the last year, Hillman said policies have changed to further encourage recovery by allowing those who were exited for drugs to skip the waitlist by going to inpatient treatment. When they return, their case manager helps support their recovery by ensuring compliance with treatment protocols.
To do this, The Salvation Army works closely with 19 partners, Hillman said, which span mental health to substance use, employment and housing services.
“Community partners are essential to what we do here,” Hillman said. “Connecting them to those outside agencies and connecting the resources all together—and all of the different agencies working together—is crucial to running a program like this.”
Because of the policy update, Hillman said 75 percent of individuals staying at HOPE Village are either in substance
HOMELESSNESS
With an ultimate goal of improving the lives of 1,000 individuals who are unhoused or at risk of becoming unhoused, The Salvation Army placed AmeriCorps members at key spots, including Salvation Army locations in both Grants Pass and Medford, and at Rogue Retreat, an organization providing shelter and transitional housing. Members also work at Rivers Edge Charter School, with both students and parents.
Ortiz said the school location is “extra special.”
“The members help with overall student success,” Ortiz said. “Their goal is to tackle homelessness from the student perspective, so we break those cycles of poverty in a family, giving the kids the resources they need to hopefully prevent them from falling into a state of homelessness and poverty in the future.”
When the grant cycle ends later this year,
use counseling, mental health counseling or a combination of the two.
“We’re really proud of those numbers,” Hillman said. “We’re just seeing people really getting their hope back. And it’s so cliche to say, because it’s HOPE Village, but really getting their hope back, just with our staff telling them that every day: ‘You’re worth it. You can do this.’”
Something Hillman finds encouraging? People are choosing to pursue treatment on their own.
“Once you give them shelter, which is a basic human need, and food and then telling them that they’re worthy of change, they’re worthy of being loved, and they’re worthy of shelter and food, then they start making those changes on their own,” Hillman said. “That’s what’s really exciting.”
An eye on the future
HOPE Village is a city partnership funded through grants and state dollars, Smith said—not out of Longview’s operational budget. Last year, $1.4 million was budgeted for the site’s operational expenses, and Smith said The Salvation Army came in roughly $200,000 under budget as they had the year prior.
“We’ve been asked and hired as a contractor to provide a service, and so that’s how we view the budget…We put that on the shoulders of the city to manage,” he said. “Year to year, funding is always a question, but the city’s been successful so far in raising those dollars.”
Smith said this year the city will put out a request for proposal for operation of
FROM PAGE 4
Ortiz hopes to renew it, which will mean the members can serve another term.
AmeriCorps Member Jack Bowen, the Wraparound Case Manager at The Salvation Army Medford Corps, has provided services to 75 clients seeking financial assistance so far, along with following up with The Salvation Army’s Hope House program participants.
“I have worked in social services for many years, and generally we assisted someone and moved on to the next one in line,” he said. “With my wraparound case management position, I have been able to keep in contact with families and continue to offer assistance or a kind word and always a word of prayer.”
Additionally, he helped 100 other individuals who did not qualify for financial assistance through The Salvation Army. In the last four months, he has utilized over $105,000 to prevent client evictions.
HOPE Village, something The Salvation Army hasn’t faced competition in before due to the emergency declaration status at the program’s start.
“We have every reason to look ahead with positivity. We see this program as bringing great value to the community. We want to continue,” he said. “We are the best provider for this operation to happen. Nobody in town operates under this philosophy of care when it comes to shelter or when it comes to treatment, for that matter. So it’s unique, and it meets an unmet need.”
Smith noted the previous difficulty in addressing the chronically homeless scenario with any kind of success.
“This program needs to happen, regardless of who’s operating it, but we are certainly in the best position to do that,” he said.
Recently, when Longview experienced temperatures so cold it posed harm to those living on the streets, The Salvation Army operated a cold weather shelter at a city facility as part of a separate contract.
Over the course of two multi-week stints, Hillman said 213 individuals were served.
With the forthcoming bid process, they are considering including a subcontract for severe weather as well.
“It was a hand-in-glove kind of fit with what we were already doing with the city,” Smith said. “It’s a natural component to take in addition, and so we’ve proven that we can do that and do it successfully.” NFC
Ortiz said it’s a personal mission for each of the service members to give back to their community.
“It’s not just talking to people and filling out paperwork, but it’s really preventing people from being on the streets,” she said. “And it’s bringing food, giving them hope that all is not lost. That’s the biggest impact—at the end of the day, knowing they have an army that can provide them the services they need.”
Member Lauren Hafterson works in the community to strengthen partnerships, create volunteer opportunities, and bring in and retain volunteers. A past recipient of Salvation Army services, she’s passionate about it.
“Giving back to the organization that so selflessly supported me is a privilege,” she said. “I dedicate myself to being a beacon of hope, shining a light for those struggling and building bridges so others may find their way out of darkness. Not only am I giving back and helping others, I am growing myself.” NFC
HOPE TEAM
FROM PAGE 4
“It was The Salvation Army ARC that came alongside me to help rebuild my life,” Puga said. “The program taught me about responsibility and commitment, both key to my sobriety.”
Now, Puga is dedicated to sharing how the ARC played a crucial role in his recovery and gave him hope to change.
“Everyone has their own stories and experiences,” he said. “I listen and tell people it’s not too late to grow or break patterns.”
If someone isn’t interested in further case management, the Hope Team invites them to the Santa Monica Corps’ Tuesday and Thursday hot meal program.
“We’ve found that, at the very least, people are willing to join our feeding program,” Puga said. “This gives us ongoing opportunities to engage.”
He recalled one client who visited for meals a few times before informing the Hope Team he was ready to get back on his feet.
Jesus Vargas-Flores, Hope Team Case Manager and Santa Monica ARC graduate, then assisted him in obtaining his birth certificate and a new ID. The man then began attending church at the corps and volunteering during his free time.
“Continued support is important,” Puga said. “Someone may decline help at first, but we tell them we’ll be here if they change their mind.”
If clients require assistance the Hope Team can’t provide, the team connects them to local resources.
“We’ll make hundreds of calls to ensure someone gets the assistance they need,” he said. “Even if someone is at their rock bottom, there’s always a way to get back up and find a different path.” NFC
RECOVERY
FROM PAGE 5
challenging,” Larson said. “However, God’s sustaining grace is evident. Chris’ story is just an example of hundreds of lives that are and have experienced change at Harbor Light. God’s power is redeeming their past, transforming their present, and giving hope for their future.”
The Harbor Light program is working for Solis. He said he was part of a community when he did drugs, but now at Harbor Light, he’s part of a better community.
“Recovery is a lifelong process but for me, failure is not an option,” Solis said. He envisions success in his future including college and a career in counseling.
“I want to help kids, people at risk,” he said. “I think with my story and what I’ve been through, I could help kids before they mess up.”
And maybe, he said, he could someday work at Harbor Light.
“It just starts with small steps and those small steps turn into big steps,” he said. “Will they be hard? Of course, they will. Do I feel I have it? No, God’s got it…This Salvation Army program is the absolute best place to get better. This place right here is beautiful, and we see it every day. I never knew recovery could be so beautiful.”
NFC
The Longview (Washington) Hope Village provides shelter and case management for residents.
|PHOTO BY ROSS ELLINGSON
NEW APPOINTMENTS
Effective July 1 unless otherwise indicated
TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS
Chief Secretary’s Office
Lt. Colonel George Baker
Assistant to the Chief Secretary
Compliance and Strategic Planning*
Lt. Colonel Jeanne Baker
THQ Special Assignment–Pro-Tem*
Effective June 1
DEL ORO DIVISION
Major Osei Stewart
Divisional Commander
Effective July 2
Major Lynn Stewart
Divisional Director of Women’s
Ministries and Divisional Secretary for Program
Effective July 2
GOLDEN STATE DIVISION
Major Michael Zielinski
Divisional Commander
Effective July 2
Major Janene Zielinski
Divisional Director of Women’s
Ministries and Divisional Leader for Officer Development
Effective July 2
HAWAIIAN AND PACIFIC
ISLANDS DIVISION
Majors Darren and Mary Norton
Corps Officers–Ray and Joan Kroc
Corps Community Center–Kapolei, HI
Effective July 2
SOUTHWEST DIVISION
Majors Hendrik and Eugenia Sumter*
Special Assignment
Effective May 14
TRANSFERRING OUT OF THE TERRITORY
Major John Brackenbury
National Secretary for World Service Office
With promotion to Lt. Colonel
Effective June 1
Major Pamilla Brackenbury
National Secretary for Spiritual Life Development
With promotion to Lt. Colonel
Effective June 1
*Returning to territory
RETIREMENTS
Lt. Colonel Douglas Danielson
May 2025
Training Principal, Brazil Territory
Lt. Colonel Verônica L. Danielson
May 2025
Director of Special Services, Brazil Territory
Majors Cheryl and Randy Kinnamon
June 2025
Corps Officers, Tacoma (Washington) Corps
PROMOTED TO GLORY
Brigadier Vivian Rodriguera, Aug. 29, 1930 – Feb. 27, 2025
Brigadier Vivian Rodriguera was promoted to Glory Feb. 27 from Hamilton, Montana, surrounded by family.
Vivian Saguil was born Aug. 29, 1930, in Honolulu, Hawaii. She grew up in the Philippines.
Vivan first connected with The Salvation Army in 1947 when she met Lt. Rodulfo Rodriguera, who was serving at the Philippines Training College. The two wed in 1948 and remained happily married for 69 years. They had three children: George, Grace and Tim.
In 1950, After the birth of their first son, George, Vivian entered the Training College from the Baguio (Philippines) City Corps. After she was commissioned, the
couple served in the Philippines as corps officers at Cebu Central, Urdaneta and La Paz Corps.
In the Philippines, the Rodrigueras held leadership positions at both the Training College and Territorial Headquarters, with Rodulfo being appointed General Secretary in 1970. He was the first national officer to hold that position. At this time, the Rodrigueras received the rank of Brigadier.
In 1978, upon their request, they transferred to the U.S. Western Territory as Hilo (Hawaii) Corps Officers. Two years later they moved to Lihue Corps in Kauai, where they served four years, during which time they assisted victims of Hurricane Iwa.
In 1984, they took their last appointment at the Phoenix Adult Rehabilitation Center, and in 1986 they retired in Phoenix, where they continued to be active soldiers at the Phoenix Citadel Corps.
Vivian served as President of the Philippine Church Women United and hosted a
MISSION STRATEGIST
What prompted the creation of this position, a new one for the Western Territory?
I think this position developed from the idea for someone to be able to come in and work with all kinds of departments and leverage the strengths of all those to foster collaboration—to be a dot connector. So many departments have their own strategies and are producing incredible resources and training. While there are great examples of collaboration, it can also be very silo-driven, and so part of my job is to go and see what everyone is doing and be able to start connecting some of those dots.
Part of the mandate is to look at what’s coming down the pipeline and to figure out what future trends are coming that might reshape how we do things. One that we are looking at currently is the rise of mental health diagnoses and how that affects the workplace and the con-
DROP-IN
gregation. Among 18- to 24-year-olds, 55 percent report having received a diagnosis and/or treatment for a mental illness, according to McKinsey research. This group is more apt to talk openly about their mental health than previous generations, and often sets stronger boundaries. This will no doubt change parts of our workplace and congregation cultures.
What might be a day in the life of the Mission Strategist?
Right now it’s a lot of fact-finding. Some of that means sifting through data and some is simply meeting with various departments. I have learned quickly that I didn’t know enough about what is available to us at the corps, and about the incredible resources that are being produced by Territorial Headquarters and the divisional headquarters, outside of the Youth Department. I wish I had been better at working collaborative-
CENTER FROM PAGE 1
Au said the Kroc team didn’t want to plan activities until they knew what the teens liked.
“It’s very much driven by what the community needs,” she said. “That’s the only reason the teens will come—if we provide them with something that meets their needs in a fun way.”
In March, activities began with Disconnect Day, when youth put away their phones for a “digital detox,” which a National Institutes of Health study found helps individuals recharge from the pressures of social media and daily life.
“Our team recognizes that kids are all about video games, social media and being on their phones,” Au said. “Wouldn’t it just be nice to disconnect and be relational with your peers? Play board games, Legos, do something that is non-digital.”
March workshops included a paint night encouraging creativity, along with coding classes and movie days. Upcoming cooking classes cover preparing omelettes, french toast, burgers, deli sandwiches and pasta salad—skills youth can begin using immediately.
Au said she hopes the program will grow to include college tours and financial literacy classes.
“Basically, the disconnected youth in our area don’t have opportunities to learn these skills because their parents may not be in the picture. Or sometimes their parents are busy working,” she said. “We want to teach some useful skills. That is the hope.”
The Teen Center offers continuity for kids after they age out of the Kroc Center’s after-school program for students in grades TK–5. Before the pandemic, the Kroc Center offered youth memberships, where teens could go to the game room
radio show featuring Salvation Army bands from around the world.
In recent years, she lived in Hamilton, Montana, with her daughter, Grace Wridge, and was a faithful soldier at the Missoula Corps. She maintained an active phone prayer ministry, reaching out to friends and family across the globe.
Vivian received the Exceptional Service Award from General Lyndon Buckingham during the Western Territory’s Testify Congress in June 2024. “Brigadier Rod,” as many affectionately called her, was the last of her kind—she was the final surviving Salvation Army Brigadier. The Salvation Army no longer uses the rank of “Brigadier.”
Brigadier Vivian Rodriguera is survived by her three children, George (Florence), Grace (Ron) and Tim (Sharyn), 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
A celebration of life service was held at the Suisun City Kroc Center April 12. NFC
ly while I was in the Youth Department. As I am gathering and understanding the resources, I am able to look for collaborative moments. One current project is with the Social Services and Corps Ministries departments, aiming to connect social services to the congregation and the congregation to our social service programs. The outcome we are looking for is that each congregation will be connected to the work that takes place in its social service program.
What are some challenges you hope to address in your work?
I’ve been doing deep dives into our data for corps attendance, officer moves and the frequency of moves, and what effect that has. The trouble is the deeper I go, the more questions come up…There’s just so much data. I’ve documented every move for the last 24 years. The median stay for an officer is four years at a corps. That can vary greatly, but that’s the average stay. How does this affect the corps? NFC
or the gym and fitness center. The Teen Drop-In Center, which replaces the previous program, offers all that plus more focused engagement.
“The engagement—that’s definitely the secret sauce to this,” Au said. “The Kroc Center is about relationship building, so we do that with activities.”
Kroc Center Administrative Assistant Jeffrey Jimenez-Perez spent his teen years at the Kroc Center, where he said he felt supported by the staff.
“I also found opportunities here that I wouldn’t have found anywhere else. I want to give the teens in the community the same opportunities and tools to grow,” he said. “My goal is to create a safe space for teens, ultimately a beacon of security for teens in this crazy neighborhood.”
Although the TCAP grant is scheduled to end in June, Au said the Tenderloin Planning Commission and United Way Bay Area have asked if the Kroc Center wants to extend the contract. Looking ahead, the center aims to fund the Teen Center through additional grants or private donors.
“If none of those pan out, it’s still a Kroc program that remains,” she said. “We’ve seen the community studies that show how much these services are needed. When the community is telling you what they need, you need to listen, right?”
She said the Teen Drop-In Center is meeting its goal of reaching Tenderloin youth who may feel unseen.
“At The Salvation Army, that’s where you’re seen,” Au said. “You’re seen for who you are as a person, your interests, your goals in life. And I think The Salvation Army has always been good about getting people to their goals. It’s not just a handout. It’s a hand up to where the families and their teens want to be.” NFC
“Holiness is not something we achieve on our own; it is the work of the Holy Spirit transforming us into the likeness of Christ,” Riley said. “When we come together in unity, seeking God’s presence, we open ourselves to his refining power. Just as iron sharpens iron, the fellowship of believers encourages and strengthens our faith, helping us to grow in grace and truth.”
Pursuing holiness—continually seeking to be in communion with Jesus, allowing him to fill us and refine us with his holy love and the Holy Spirit—is an integral part of the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition, of which The Salvation Army belongs.
Among The Salvation Army’s doctrines, sanctification, the process of becoming holy, is referenced in Doctrine 10: “We believe that it is the privilege of all believers to be wholly sanctified, and that their whole spirit and soul and body may be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
The Salvation Army USA National Ambassadors for Holiness Bill and Diane Ury were the weekend’s guest speakers, covering seven sessions.
One thing Bill Ury hopes attendees remember? “Holiness is the only way to quench our thirst,” he said.
“The holiness we thirst for is the Holy One himself. He is holy and love in essence and thus, everything we learn about who we truly are must come from him and through him,” he said. “The ‘separation’ portion of our definition of holiness must be seen through the revelation of a God who wants us to know him face to face. He has risked everything on his heart’s desire to invite us to quench our thirsty, broken hearts and lives in his life-giving flow.”
Attendee Melissa Helms, a soldier from the San Francisco South of Market
VOLUNTEERING
FROM PAGE 7
(SOMA) Corps, said she was encouraged to attend the weekend by her corps officer—it was her first Holiness Retreat. A big takeaway? Holiness is not complicated, she said.
“Holiness always sounded like something lofty and somewhat unattainable to me, like something that is for prominent spiritual leaders or saints like Mother Teresa,” she said. “However, that is not the case. Holiness is for every person who has been saved, and is as simple as receiving and allowing the presence of the Lord to live within me.”
That simplicity is something Diane Ury said she hopes people remember.
“Their constant sense of being needy, of having longings and desires is the way that God created us to be,” she said. “That is not a result of sin; that is our created nature because he made us not to be self-sufficient, but to be filled with himself. Every longing is a symbol built into our beings to constantly remind us that we are not intended to live without him flooding our dusty, thirsty lives. Without him in our minds, hearts, souls and bodies, we are as dry as death, and it’s not possible to flourish as a human person…
“All we must do to be holy is to continuously posture ourselves in utter dependence so that we can receive his transforming love and goodness. This is a life of obedient, surrendered, face to face abiding love with the only one who can satisfy.”
During the worship time, led by guest Phil Laeger, Bill Ury said he turned from his seat in the front several times to bask in the “tangible glory of the worshipful countenances of every participant.” The word he used to describe the group? Beauty.
“It was in the beauty of holiness that we were invited into by the Triune God,” he said.
Unlike many gatherings, the retreat
year old volunteers, who work alongside counselors. One junior leader came back the next year on staff, and realized he wants to pursue a future in social work.
Through collaboration with other nonprofits, the Kroc Center has three to four volunteers at a time who are participants in job readiness programs. The volunteers serve four 40-hour weeks.
“Sometimes it really gives us a good opportunity to hire good people,” Rowe said, estimating four work experience volunteers have been hired on staff at the Kroc Center.
The Salvation Army Aurora (Colorado) Corps has also found staff members through volunteering. Shortly after Corps Officers Lts. Carl and Melissa Esquivel were appointed to the post, team members had left for other positions and the corps staff consisted of the food pantry manager and the Esquivels.
One woman, who visited the food pantry for assistance, began volunteering out of gratitude. Carl Esquivel said she’d clean the windows, the chapel, the floors, the restrooms—anything—and help organize as needed.
“At one point, she was volunteering for 40 hours, and we saw some of her skills,” he said. “A position opened, which was the office and volunteer coordinator position, and we saw some of her giftings…She came in as a guest, became a volunteer and now she’s our office and volunteer coordinator…She’s also now a Salvation Army soldier in our church.”
The Aurora Corps’ volunteer numbers have steadily grown to more than 150 a month since the Esquivels arrived at the corps in 2021. They attribute this to multiple factors, including cultivating a people-first culture and as-
took a casual approach, and many attendees wore sweatshirts and jeans.
“Commissioner Colleen’s humble and wise leadership set the tone,” Diane Ury said. “It wasn’t until Sunday that I even knew who were officers.”
Throughout the weekend, attendees gathered for the sessions, meals and workshops, and enjoyed dedicated personal reflection and free times.
Workshops included “Revealing Holiness through Soul Care,” led by Major Millie Bearchell; “God Demands Holiness” with Majors Lex and Patricia Girion; “Revealing Holiness through Discipleship” with Lt. Colonels Phil and Debbie Lum; and “Revealing Holiness through Bible Study” with Envoy David Witthoff.
Prescott (Arizona) Corps Officer Lt. Emily Reed said the “Revealing Holiness through Soul Care” workshop was particularly impactful to her current season of life.
“Obviously, as an officer, we want to bear good fruit and hope it flourishes where we are at,” she said. “The thing that I learned or was reminded of is that fruit-bearing shouldn’t burn or wear us out. We need to take care of our souls and just be present with Jesus.”
For Reed, who traveled to the retreat with her newborn, Judah, the weekend also served as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and holy love.
sessing the need—in four years, the corps has gone from serving 12,000 people a year to 36,000.
“It’s not that we sought volunteers to just get volunteers, it’s because we actually needed what we’re looking for,”
Carl Esquivel said.
They’ve worked to build networks within the city, which include the local Space Force base, police departments, school districts, churches and more. When volunteer opportunities arise, the corps notifies the networks in a blast through the Volunteer Management System (VMS). They also keep their own church community involved.
“We’re very much plugged in and have a pulse of what our city needs,” Carl Esquivel said. “We activate resources within minutes if we are called upon. So because we’re needed, it creates the fact that we desperately need help. We can’t do this just by the officers or the church or the staff. We are at beyond capacity, so therefore it really forces us to reach out and not work in silos, but work as a united front.”
One group of volunteers Melissa Esquivel is particularly passionate about are volunteers coming through the court system who are minors. The Salvation Army is one of a small number of organizations in the area who accept minor volunteers, so the corps receives a steady stream of youth required to perform community service.
“They pretty much all get sent to us, which is awesome, because we get to mentor them, and we can show them what The Salvation Army does, and just encourage them,” she said.
And it all goes back—and contributes—to the corps culture.
“We view people with dignity,” Carl Esquivel said. “We believe that everybody has some sort of leadership, no matter what their background is. Everybody has potential.” NFC
“Judah is a miracle baby,” she said. “Seeing those who prayed over us while I was pregnant with him hold and love on him…made me think that is probably how God reacts to us when we come into a relationship with him.”
For Helms, the weekend was filled with good information to digest. She said the most impactful time was being able to talk through some of what was taught with her friends from the corps who also attended.
“We were able to encourage each other to better foster a holiness culture in our circles of influence, whether that be our own families, groups we lead or our church community,” she said.
And that’s really what the Holiness Retreat is all about.
“In gathering, we experience the beauty of the body of Christ—supporting one another, confessing our struggles and celebrating the victories of a life fully surrendered to God. It is in this sacred space that the Holy Spirit can stir within us a deeper hunger for righteousness and empower us to live lives that reflect the holiness of Christ to a broken world,” Riley said.
“Ultimately, these gatherings are not just about learning more about holiness; they are about encountering the Holy One himself and allowing him to transform us from the inside out.” NFC
HAM RADIO
FROM PAGE 6
Kamby and Parks have been licensed to use their ham radios for many years, and Kamby said he was motivated to learn about three decades ago after an earthquake occurred while he was at work in San Francisco but his family was in Petaluma.
They are established members of similar clubs throughout the area and routinely practice for an inevitable need. Sometimes it’s a quick check-in of the dedicated ham radio room inside The Salvation Army building on the east side of town, other times it’s drills with the police and fire departments. They enjoy participating in the safety efforts of local bicycle races, and like knowing there’s available equipment tucked away everywhere from the community center in Lucchesi Park to the airport. Ham radios are a part of the past, but they’ve also become a fixture of the present.
“We’re always tinkering with things, testing things and training,” Kamby said. The more ham radios there are, and the more they’re used, the more assured Kamby and Parks feel. Maybe they can’t stop the next emergency from happening, but they can push for peace to return as swiftly as possible once it does.
“When we do have another disaster, the familiar thing will be our ham radios,” Kamby said. “We’re very comfortable with our communications.” NFC
Commissioner Colleen Riley thanks retreat guests Phil Laeger, Diane Ury and Bill Ury. |PHOTO COURTESY DOUGLAS RILEY
ALASKA
Salvation Army participates in Fur Rondy parade
Anchorage Corps Officer Major Raymond Erickson-King and Divisional Youth and Candidates Secretary Captain Brandon Kyle represented The Salvation Army in this year’s Fur Rondy parade, which traveled through Downtown Anchorage Feb. 22. The parade is part of the annual Fur Rondy festival, which aims to represent the pioneering spirit of Alaskans. This year marked the 89th anniversary of Fur Rondy—Alaska’s largest winter festival.
CASCADE
Salem Kroc Center chef honored
Greggory Peterson, head chef at The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in Salem (Oregon), received the 2025 Salem Chamber of Commerce First Citizen Award, honoring his commitment to the community. When fires impacted Oregonians in 2020, Peterson prepared 1,500 meals a day at the Kroc Center to feed those in need. When the disaster response subsided, Peterson and his team began cooking for the local unhoused community. He continues to fight hunger while raising awareness of the Kroc Center and its services.
“Gregg’s commitment to the community of Salem is a reflection of Christ,” said Kroc Center Corps Officer Captain Jeff Walters. “He gives everything he has. There are no boundaries or barriers to his willingness to serve others. His heart beats for impacting the next generation of leaders, feeding the homeless and much more.”
DEL ORO
A ‘sweet’ partnership
Salvation Army representatives, including the Del Oro Division development team with Corps Officer Lt. Andrew Flockhart and Center Director Ron Kinney of the Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center Suisun City, visited the Jelly Belly factory in Fairfield, California, March 14. The group acknowledged the long-time support of Jelly Belly, presenting a bell etched with the Jelly Belly logo to John Jamison, VP of Retail Operations.
“We are so grateful for this partnership and the shared commitment to helping those in need,” said Guy Farris, Del Oro Divisional Director of Corporate Engagement.
This
crest, California, completed their annual service project by making care bags to donate to The Salvation Army. The 216 complete bags contained combinations of non-perishable food, water, bandaids, sunscreen and other necessary items contributed by families at Saint Ann School.
“Mrs. Kasberg’s classroom is filled with love and compassion that overflowed,” said Ridgecrest Corps Officer Captain Gina Noble.
HAWAIIAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDS
Guam
The Salvation Army in Guam held a ribbon-cutting event Feb. 14 for its new thrift boutique in Tamuning, which features designer products from brands like Coach, Givenchy and Kate Spade. The event was supported by Hawaiian and Pacific Islands divisional leaders Majors Troy and Anie Trimmer.
“When you purchase items in our thrift store you are helping other people. When we recycle our items, we are helping people as well. It not only helps our environment but helps those in need,” Guam Corps Officer Major Eric Tumale told KUAM News. “When you purchase items here, it will guarantee we can continue our programs.”
INTERMOUNTAIN
Montana Stranded Motorist Assistance Program launches
The Salvation Army in Montana launched a Montana Stranded Motorist Assistance Program March 3 in partnership with the Montana Highway Patrol (MHP). The program aims to assist travelers during emergencies throughout Eastern and Southwest Montana, including the Butte, Bozeman and Billings areas. Stranded motorists will receive vouchers up to $150 for towing or lodging, with troopers issuing the vouchers on a discretionary basis.
Majors Cheryl and Nesan Kistan are Intermountain divisional leaders.
NORTHWEST
Bremerton Corps receives Health Improvement Grant
The Salvation Army Bremerton (Washington) Corps received a $34,000 Community Health Improvement Grant from Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, a healthcare system based in Washington. The funds will support vulnerable populations through health services and provide case management for unhoused neighbors and survivors of domestic violence.
Captains Lance and Dana Walters are Bremerton Corps Officers.
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Palisades wildfire resource fair
In response to the devastation of the January Pacific Palisades Fire, The Salvation Army partnered with Emergency Network Los Angeles (ENLA) and other nonprofits to host a Wildfire Resource Fair at American Legion Post 283 March 18-22. The resource event provided a one-stop hub for affected residents, offering financial
assistance, case management, meal support and mental and spiritual care.
A flag-planting ceremony united veterans, agencies and community members to symbolize commitment, recovery and hope for the future.
Lt. Colonels Cindy and Mike Dickinson are Southern California divisional leaders.
SOUTHWEST
Phoenix Metro team serves veterans
Representatives from The Salvation Army in the Phoenix metro area participated in the annual Maricopa StandDown event March 13-14 at the Arizona State Fairgrounds. The event, part of Arizona Veterans StandDown Alliance (AVSA), aims to help veterans and their families experiencing housing instability get connected to housing and supportive services. At the event, The Salvation Army provided showers and resources, with the Adult Rehabilitation Center onsite to share opportunities available through its program.
Lt. Colonels Charles and Shari Fowler are Southwest divisional leaders.
ARCC
San Diego Police Department tours ARC
The San Diego Police Department toured the San Diego Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC) March 19 to learn how the program supports individuals throughout their recovery. Officers witnessed the ARC’s comprehensive approach, which includes life skill development and spiritual support to help participants reintegrate into society. Later that evening, officers attended a graduation and award ceremony for men completing the program.
Captains Jennifer and Paul Swain are San Diego ARC Administrators.
CFOT
CFOT instructor honored Envoy (Dr.) David Witthoff, Instructor of Biblical Studies at the College for Officer Training (CFOT) at Crestmont, was named a Palos Verdes Peninsula Rotary Educator of the Year. Recipients were honored at a dinner celebration at the Palos Verdes Golf Club. Witthoff teaches Biblical Interpretation, Old Testament Survey and an elective course on the Book of Romans. “The Western Territory is blessed to have an amazing instructor who continues to educate, equip and inspire our cadets,” said CFOT Training Principal Major Terry Masango. NFC
GOLDEN STATE
First-graders care
spring, first-graders at Saint Ann School in Ridge-
opens thrift boutique
Pacific
SESSION NAMES
SERVANTS OF GOD CRUSADERS FOR CHRIST GUARDIANS OF TRUTH MESSENGERS OF PEACE BUILDERS OF THE KINGDOM FAITHFUL INTERCESSORS FOLLOWERS OF JESUS BELIEVERS AMBASSADORS OF GRACE MESSENGERS OF THE KINGDOM REFLECTORS OF HOLINESS DISCIPLES OF THE CROSS GOD’S FELLOW WORKERS FRIENDS OF CHRIST PROCLAINERS OF THE RESURRECTION WITNESSES FOR CHRIST BRIDGE BUILDERS PREPARERS OF THE WAY HERALDS OF THE GOOD NEWS AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST MESSENGERS OF COMPASSION PRAYER WARRIORS SERVANTS OF JESUS CROSS BEARERS FORWARD 2000 MESSENGERS OF THE TRUTH VISIONARIES MESSENGERS OF JOY PROCLAIMERS OF THE GOSPEL DEFENDERS OF JUSTICE FOLLOWERS OF JESUS HERALDS OF GRACE JOYFUL INTERCESSORS MESSENGERS OF LIGHT
Each group of Salvation Army cadets who enter training and are commissioned together comprise a session, and each session bears a name ideated by the General. Around the world, every session from the same year bears the same session name.
IN A TIME WHEN PEOPLE ARE CONCERNED ABOUT ‘MISSION DRIFT’ AND OUR IDENTITY, MY HEART WAS DRAWN TO FIVE WORDS THAT EXPRESS THE CORE OF WHO WE ARE AS INDIVIDUALS AND AS THE SALVATION ARMY.
—General Lyndon Buckingham
In recent decades, session names have focused on the needs of the time and the way in which the gospel matches those needs, along with the hopes for the members of the session as they become officers—“Messengers of Peace,” “Ambassadors of Holiness,” “Witnesses for Christ.” In earlier decades, they were often single-word descriptors, sometimes about qualities—”Faithful,” “Courageous,” “Victorious.”
Each General provides session names for five sessions of cadets, and General Lyndon Buckingham said the task is something he “wrestled with for some time.”
“In a time when people are concerned about ‘mission drift’ and our identity, my heart was drawn to five words that express the core of who we are as individuals and as The Salvation Army,” Buckingham said. “This may be a departure from recent practice, but the more I have engaged with the task, the more my spirit is at peace with this approach.”
The following names and Scriptures will be given to future training sessions:
RESCUED (2026-2028)
For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and
brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves (Col. 1:13).
REDEEMED (2027-2029)
Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us ... He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit (Gal. 3:13, 14).
RECONCILED (2028-2030)
All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them (2 Cor. 5:18-19a).
RESTORED (2029-2031)
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast (1 Peter 5:10).
RENEWED (2030-2032)
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will (Rom. 12:2).
