New Frontier Chronicle September/October 2023 | Vol. 41, No. 05

The Salvation Army is officially recognized in Thailand

The Salvation Army officially commenced work in the Kingdom of Thailand in June, making it the 134th country in which The Salvation Army has a legally and officially recognized ministry. Although the registration process began in 2016, it was only in April 2023 that the government of Chiang Province approved the establishment of The Salvation Army. The work in Thailand is overseen by the Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar Territory.

The Salvation Army began to consider a ministry in Thailand in 2012, with pioneering

THAILAND PAGE 11

Salvation Army primary feeding organization after Maui fire

In the 17 days after wildfires devastated the Hawaiian island of Maui, through Aug. 25, The Salvation Army coordinated some 176,000 meals through local and nonprofit partnerships as the primary feeding organization for the immediate relief phase of the emergency disaster response.

Each day, The Salvation Army is coordinating and providing 13,000 meals to survivors in shelters, first responders and many of the more than 11,000 displaced residents from 47 feeding locations, including points of distribution.

“We did what we are called for and expected to do. We showed up. We immediately responded in the mass care mode by figuring out feeding, working with partners, staying in our expected function and doing it with all our might,” said Major Troy Trimmer, Divisional Commander of The Salvation Army Hawaiian and Pacific Islands (HPI), who alongside Western Territorial Commander Commissioner Douglas Riley on Aug. 24

helped prepare meals, visited staff and looked at potential locations for ongoing operation in the most affected area.

“The reality of this disaster will take a long time to set in. The fires leave an indelible mark on the heart of anyone who holds the island dear.”

Riley noted meeting one volunteer, who after losing his own home came to help for 16 days straight.

“No words can explain it. Never have I been a part of a response where so many of those you are working with have had a loss themselves or

have had family loss,” he said. “I’m proud of the spirit in which we are serving others during this crisis.”

The wildfire, the country’s deadliest in over a century, has claimed the lives of 115 people with more than a thousand

General Lyndon Buckingham welcomed at International Headquarters in London

Salvation Army officers and employees welcomed General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham, World President of Women’s Ministries, to International Headquarters in London Aug. 7.

Flag-bearers escorted the new international leaders into the building, accompanied by the IHQ Staff Band playing “We have a gospel.”

As members of the public stopped outside to enjoy the historic occasion, hand-inhand, the Buckinghams were welcomed by Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest, who also greeted delegates from the International College for Officers.

“General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham, following the High Council in May, we believe the world leapt for joy,” Forrest said. “The 22nd General of The Salvation Army is now on duty.”

General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham enter The Salvation Army International Headquarters.

|PHOTO COURTESY INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS

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Salvation Army volunteers prepare meals for distribution. |PHOTO COURTESY HAWAIIAN AND AND PACIFIC ISLANDS DIVISION

|PHOTO COURTESY INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS

“

When the dry season comes—and we know it will— fall back on God’s promise. He will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sunscorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.

Flourishing in the dry season

Noelle Nelson, Major

It is wonderful to be in a season of life when things are blooming, happening and coming to fruition. God’s miracles seem to be popping up everywhere and there is little that can drag your spirit down. You hardly have to try as you feel yourself flourishing. We’ve all been there, enjoying moments of peace and joy and confirmation that we are on the path God has laid out for us.

This is not where we are setting down our feet this time.

I found myself, for the first time ever, dreading a move.

Caring is a magazine from The Salvation Army for people who care about making an impact for good.

As a Salvation Army officer or employee, you’ll also find a curated collection of inspiring news for you in the New Frontier Chronicle print edition and our email newsletter, the Weekly. See more at caringmagazine.org.

Published by The Salvation Army USA Western Territory 30840 Hawthorne Blvd. Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275

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New Frontier Chronicle founded 1983

Bob Docter, Founding Editor ISSN 2164-5930 westernusa.salvationarmy.org

Think of a dry, arid desert—nothing for miles and miles except endless stretches of sand and heat waves visible to the naked eye. Eyes aching from the harsh sun, skin blistering past the point of sunburn, heat radiating up through the soles of your shoes, throat parched and sandpaper-rough. What would you do for a single sip of water? How far would you crawl to reach a small patch of shade? You would cry but for the fact that you don’t have enough spare moisture left in your body to produce a single tear. Have you ever been in a place like this? Perhaps not literally or physically. But what about spiritually? I have. It’s a “yes” to both.

I went to high school in Santa Cruz, California, close enough to the ocean that my surfer classmates would run onto campus just as the bell rang, shoes forgotten in the car and still towel-drying their oceansoaked hair. If they remembered, they would do the courtesy of dusting the sand off their feet and legs before rushing into class. Admittedly, it was a pretty fantastic place to be a teenager.

Then the summer before my senior year, my Salvation Army officer parents were appointed to Mesa, Arizona.

“Mesa” means: “An isolated flat-topped hill with steep sides, as found in arid and semi-arid areas of the U.S.”

We were headed away from the cool water of the Pacific, toward vast expanses of sand, cacti, lizards and broiling heat. I did not take well to all the jokes meant to cheer me.

“Hey! You’re moving to the biggest beach in the world!”

“You’ll be able to get a tan year-round!” (I am Danish and English. The ability to tan is not even in my DNA).

There are times in life when we can feel the desert coming; a palpable transitioning from a time of abundance and moisture into the scorching heat of a spiritual desert. We may fight it, try to delay it, but it still comes. What brings it on? What specific purpose could it possibly have? Even if we could pinpoint the what and the why, how long will we be in this dry, hot, lonely, near-uninhabitable atmosphere? It’s an unanswerable question. We do know this: It is hard to flourish in the dry season.

I found myself in a dry season that stretched a span of nearly 16 years as one after another, my second, third, and fourth children were diagnosed with autism. There wasn’t nearly the amount of awareness, information and treatments “back in the day” as there are now. I wanted to praise God for the lives of my four children. I wanted to delight in their presence, savor their giggles and hold silly conversations that only toddlers can provide. I wanted to see them thrive and flourish. That was not God’s path for them or, ultimately, for me.

Oh, how I longed to talk with Jesus in the night hours, pouring out my sorrows to Jehovah Rapha, the Lord who heals. But by day’s end I had nothing left. Watching my children struggle to learn, communicate and use the most basic of fine-motor skills was emotionally exhausting. On the outskirts, our oldest child was feeling sorely neglected. My husband was as hands-on as he could be after a long day at the office. My spirit became a dry husk, on the brink of shriveling completely and blowing away in the hot desert wind.

Years before, in training school, I claimed Isaiah 58:11 as “my” verse: The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.

During this long, dry season God would continually bring this verse to mind. So many times I shoved the verse away as if it were not a promised cup of cool water, but merely a mirage meant to torment me. I knew it was not meant to taunt me, but

rather to remind me he had made a promise, and I should focus on that. But it was oh, so difficult.

It was while visiting my parents in Mesa (yes, they retired there!) that my dad showed me the most recent collection of his photographs: desert cacti in full bloom. As we chatted, he shared how amazing it is that these cacti could flourish and bloom in the heat of the dry desert. A cactus is incredibly heavy because it is 90 percent water, having constantly gathered moisture from the environment, storing it up for the dry season.

Then it hit me, full-on. Be a cactus! If I so immerse myself daily in God’s Word and his presence in each season, I will have “hydration” stored up to keep me alive during the dry season. I would still need to allow God to rehydrate and soften my crackling-dry spirit, but in his loving care I would make it through this desert. He would cause me to thrive once again. I would flourish.

And that is exactly what happened.

Years earlier as a teen, I could not escape the physical desert of my new Arizona home. But God was faithful and brought me the gift of my now husband of 32 years.

Years later, I could not hide from the spiritual and physical exhaustion parenting brought me, but God was faithful and continues to be faithful as I watch my four boys grow into fine men who love the Lord, each to the best of their abilities.

When the dry season comes—and we know it will—fall back on God’s promise. He will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.

In the meantime, if you are flourishing in a season of abundance take advantage of those showers of blessing. Soak up the living water into the very core of your being. And when the dry season comes it will be stored up and ready to sustain your soul. You will flourish, like a beautiful desert cacti in full bloom. NFC

—NOELLE NELSON, MAJOR

Major Noelle Nelson is Director of Special Services for the Adult Rehabilitation Centers Command.

Joy guides Los Angeles Rams partnership

Long Beach Red Shield Center and L.A. Rams work together to provide resources and meet community needs.

KRISTIN MARGUERITE DOIDGE

When asked what’s been most rewarding about partnering with The Salvation Army during the off-season, Johnathan Franklin, Director of Social Justice for the Los Angeles Rams professional football team, summed it up in one word: Joy.

That joy has led to a growing partnership between the Rams and The Salvation Army Long Beach Red Shield Center, which provides youth programming, food distribution, as well as church and resource services to youth, seniors and families in Long Beach and surrounding areas in Southern California.

“This partnership has unlocked so many opportunities, from carnival style community events for over a thousand people, to two seasons of Rams flag football leagues, and unique camp experiences,” Franklin said. “We have been able to partner together and inspire change, provide hope and unite community members.”

The desire to support the Army’s mission starts at the top of the Rams organization. Kevin Demoff, chief operating officer for the Rams, was honored with the Judge Harry Pregerson Award for the Rams’ “tireless work for the community” at last summer’s Sally Awards, The Salvation Army’s largest fundraising event in Southern California.

The Rams relocated back to Los Angeles in 2016 after spending 21 seasons in St. Louis, Missouri. After their Super Bowl LVI win in 2022, they donated Super Bowl hats for the Long Beach Human Trafficking Task Force’s Youth Empowerment Safety Symposium

(YESS) event, hosted by the Red Shield Center in January. The Rams also participated in the Long Beach Red Shield Day in March, providing a bounce house and footballs for kids to catch and land in the bounce house.

“There’s something special about knowing that others care, that the needs of the community are seen by others, and that those others are willing to respond alongside you,” said Captain Jared Arnold, Long Beach Red Shield Corps Officer. “To have a group like the L.A. Rams feeding into the future leaders of the community—our youth—is a special thing.”

Some of those young leaders have found participating in Rams events at the Red Shield Center to be a great way to not only interact with caring professional athletes and to learn new skills, but also to make new friends.

“Many of our young people lack the resources to participate in sports of this caliber, and often find themselves in situations they shouldn’t be in, due to circumstances beyond their control,” Arnold said. “Having a place to go that is safe and supportive, and having the knowledge that there are those like the Rams who believe they can succeed and be more than their circumstances, provides the motivation to do more and achieve more… and we know this will spill over into other areas of those kids’ homes and families.”

After meeting at the first day of football camp last summer, Arnold said two formerly shy boys quickly became good friends when they had to work together for a teamwork exercise.

“They played together the whole season, and continue to attend our programs regularly,” he said. “Sports have a way of bringing people together and building up their confidence. These two young men now help the oth-

|PHOTO

kids who seem more shy, and are always eager to assist the coaches.”

In fact, participation in the Rams’ camps is even more important after the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2022 “National State of Play” report published by the Aspen Institute showed that kids’ and teens’ physical activity levels dropped to as low as 7.2 hours a week during the pandemic. Now, it’s back up to more than 16 hours a week since September, higher than pre-pandemic levels.

The opportunity to meet and train with Rams players also creates hope and meaningful change far beyond the football field. Melinda Lankford, Director of Programs and Development at the Red Shield Center, recalled how a conversation with a local father as his son was practicing led to an even greater connection.

“He shared with me that his wife had died unexpectedly within the past year, and he was so thankful for the Red Shield programs we had going to get his son ‘out of the house and living again,’” she said. “The dad had heard about our flag football program through the school district, and as he shared their struggles with me, he and I were both tearing up.”

As for the future, Lankford and Arnold have both been in talks with Franklin and the Rams organization to start planning a fall training night as well as the fall season kicking off at the end of summer. For Franklin, the Rams’ work with The Salvation Army all comes back to joy and the smiles on the kids’—and the players’—faces. A native of the Crenshaw district in Los Angeles and a former UCLA and Green Bay Packers running back, his work with youth in Long Beach is personal. “We will continuously be focused on listening, learning and responding to the needs of the community,” Franklin said. “Our goal is to be the greatest community partner in Los Angeles.” NFC

Standards of Excellence program aims to empower advisory organizations

The new standards are designed to help Salvation Army officers and advisory organizations work better together.

BY KAREN GLEASON

The Salvation Army National Headquarters recently announced the upcoming rollout of the Standards of Excellence program for advisory organizations, including boards and councils, auxiliaries and Echelon chapters. The program recognizes the importance of these groups and their volunteer members who help

The Salvation Army “do the most good” in the communities it serves. It’s designed to honor those organizations that meet and exceed the national standards.

“This is all about strengthening our partnership with advisory organization members,” said Dale Bannon, National Community Relations and Development Secretary, in a webinar introducing the program. LinkedIn’s Joey Zumaya, member of the National Advisory Board and the Western Territorial Advisory Board, was recruited to develop the program and spent the last year with his team preparing to launch it.

“When the National Advisory Board decided that they wanted to put in place National Advisory Organization Standards of Excellence, it was one of the most groundbreaking and one of the most exciting initiatives I had heard about in years,” said National

Commander Commissioner Kenneth G. Hodder. He noted that some Salvation Army units don’t have advisory organizations while others need to be revitalized. “If we want to achieve great things for God, we have to give it our all, and that means we call upon those in the communities in which we work to come alongside us, to advise us, to counsel us and, having established goals, to help us to reach them.”

During the pilot rollout of the program, 60 percent of participating advisory organizations met the standards.

“There was a direct correlation between The Salvation Army commands that met the standards and the things The Salvation Army needs to be successful in these communities,” said Zumaya, noting the importance of the relationship between The Salvation Army officer in charge of a unit and the leader of its advisory organization.

Creating standards

Each type of advisory organization has its own standards—a list of specifications needed to attain silver, the first level of certification. It can then strive for the gold level, which has additional requirements.

For advisory boards and councils, silver level items include following the “Manual of Advisory Organizations,” diversity in recruitment nominations and meeting membership minimums—nine members for boards and six for councils. One of the gold level requirements is maintaining a leadership succession plan; another is completing a self-evaluation every three years to determine strengths and areas of improvement.

For Echelon, the the young adult auxiliary for those 22-35, the Standards of Excellence include a membership minimum of 12 for silver or 20 for gold, regularly posting on social media—monthly for silver

The Red Shield Flag Football program this spring was free for second to eighth-grade children throughout the greater Long Beach, California, community. The Los Angeles Rams provided a training camp as well as jerseys and equipment for the kids.

COURTESY LONG BEACH RED SHIELD CENTER er

L-r: Colonels Eddie and Genevera Vincent, Major Larry Carmichael and Commissioners Kenneth G. and Jolene Hodder |PHOTO COURTESY NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS

David Aviles shares his journey in finding purpose through faith and renewal.

BY LOU BUHL

Each morning, David Aviles wakes up to see a handwritten note that says, “Reach one.”

To Aviles, this serves as a daily reminder of his calling to serve others. “Reach one person today and invite them into that friendship with God,” he explained.

As he begins his journey toward officership at the College for Officer Training (CFOT) at Crestmont, he said he’s taking this motto with him.

“God didn’t call me out of darkness to just live here,” he said. “This is my duty.”

Before finding rehabilitation, Aviles said he never could have imagined being an accepted Salvation Army cadet.

For three years, Aviles said his life became filled with “darkness and depression” as he struggled with an addiction to drugs and alcohol.

During that time, he said he often “felt like there was nothing left to live for.” All of these feelings culminated one morning when he made the decision to end his life in early 2020.

“I didn’t even think about writing a letter or telling anybody,” he said.

As he physically struggled to bring an end to his own life, he heard music coming from the other side of the wall,

How one man went from an ARC graduate to Salvation Army cadet

a worship song titled “Grace Wins” by Matthew West.

At that moment, he felt God’s presence back in his life. “I heard God telling me, ‘No, this is not how your story is going to end. You’re my child and I have something better for you.’”

Then, he said he came to the realization that he needed help.

On Jan. 8, 2020, Aviles entered The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC) in San Bernardino, California.

“That’s the day I gave my life to the Lord,” he said. “Since then, I haven’t looked back.”

Throughout his youth, Aviles lived in Victorville, California, where his father served as a local pastor. Growing up, he said he knew about who Jesus was, but never felt he had a relationship with him.

While at the ARC, Aviles said he grew “hungry for this new way of life, hungry for Jesus, and hungry for recovery.”

A month into his program, he began playing guitar for the ARC’s worship team, which he said took him back to playing music for his father’s congregation when he was a kid.

When asked at his 60-day review if he ever considered doing more than leading worship, Aviles said he wrestled with understanding God’s calling for him and his place within The Salvation Army.

“I was so used to checking off boxes,” he said. “That’s what I thought religion was, when in all reality, God was just calling for my heart to be open and receptive.”

After graduating from the ARC, Aviles moved into the Hope House, a bridge housing program located above the Riverside (California) Corps. While living at the Hope House, residents are required to work a recovery program and attend church services and meetings, all while maintaining a full-time job.

Although Aviles found a job a little over three miles from the Hope House, he no longer had a driver’s license following a driving under the influence

(DUI) charge he faced before getting sober.

“For eight months, he rode his bike back and forth to work as he chipped away at these DUI classes,” said then-Riverside Corps Officer Captain David Cain, who has since been appointed to Spokane, Washington, adding how residents are required to “do everything the right way, even when it’s hard.”

“I was willing to do anything that it took for me to get this life, this recovery,” Aviles said.

As time went on, Aviles assumed greater leadership responsibilities, taking charge of worship services at the corps and guiding Rooted in Recovery meetings at the ARC.

“When he leads worship, he doesn’t just get up there and play music and sing. He allows the Holy Spirit to work through him and he encourages the congregation…It’s like second nature for him,” said Riverside Corps Sergeant-Major Ric Clayton, who also serves as Aviles’ recovery sponsor.

Out of all the men Clayton has sponsored over the past five years, he said, “David is the one that stuck. He worked all his steps and he’s the type of guy who receives love and in turn, gives that love right back.”

In addition to these roles, Aviles also began working to support the corps’ social services office, helping with the food pantry and shower program. Through these acts of service, Cain said he saw God “cultivate a heart of compassion” in Aviles.

“I would see him discipling people in the shower program, and then they

would come through one of our social work programs,” Cain added. “He would continually pastor people.”

When Clayton left his role as resident manager for the Hope House after getting married, he said he believed Aviles would be the “perfect fit,” and Cain agreed.

“I think it was a beautiful opportunity for David to live into something that was bigger than himself,” Cain said. “It provided a platform for him to build leadership, to build confidence and live out his faith.”

Then came the Future Officers’ Fellowship (FOF) retreat, where Aviles finally accepted his calling for officership.

“Everybody knew that this was a calling for him, but it took him a little longer to process that,” Clayton said. “He doesn’t just jump into things…He takes God’s direction and if he feels led by the Spirit, he will move in that direction.”

During the retreat, Aviles said he heard God in his heart, telling him, “this is what I want you to do.”

The next day, he went and looked over the ocean and spoke with God. “I said, ‘I know this is where you’re calling me and this is what you’re calling me to do and I’m going to accept the calling.’” NFC

David Aviles entered the College for Officer Training at Crestmont with the Champions of the Mission Session (2023-2025) in August. He will train to become a Salvation Army officer over the next two years.

Clockwise from above: David Aviles at the College for Officer Training at Crestmont in Rancho Palos Verdes, California; Ric Clayton and Aviles; Aviles (center) with Captains David and Kelly Cain |PHOTOS COURTESY DAVID AVILES

“

I heard God telling me, ‘No, this is not how your story is going to end. You’re my child and I have something better for you.’

Vail Valley community garden cultivates wellness and connection

The Vail Valley Salvation Army is growing local connections and nourishing wellness through its Community Garden.

BY HALEY OSNESS

In Avon, Colorado, the Vail Valley Salvation Army Community Garden is planting seeds in the soil and hearts of its participants through its all-encompassing wellness programs that encourage those of all ages to get in touch with the land.

The Vail Valley Service Extension Unit offers vital social services to those in need through food, rent and utility assistance, prescriptions, senior support, and emergency transportation. Along with these services, a community garden serves as a valuable addition to the support provided by the Vail Valley Salvation Army.

Tsu Wolin-Brown, longtime Center Coordinator, said the garden’s inception stemmed from a food pantry client’s desire for fresh produce.

“I came up with some funding, and we added our community garden,” WolinBrown said. “We began charging $5 per plot so clients in need could develop a sort of ownership for their garden.”

The leasing season of the plots kicks off with a seed distribution and exchange for everyone to start their gardens. The continued growth of fruits and vegetables is supported by a drip irrigation system that ensures the

proper amount of water for each plant.

According to Wolin-Brown, the garden grows abundantly, producing impressive amounts of produce for them to share with the community.

“Last year, we gave away 500 tomato plants to children who didn’t have a garden or room for one at their house,” she said.

Soon after the garden opened in 2013, it began to receive annual funding of $10,000 from the City of Avon’s “Get Out and Grow Avon” grant, which supports the continued garden operation and its programs.

There are 38 plots of land available for summer leasing in addition to a greenhouse to increase access to produce and workshop opportunities during the winter.

Community members can pay $50 to rent a 4-by-8 plot, while four larger, 4-by-16 plots are available for restaurants to rent for $200. Clients in need and Community members can come and go as they please, with gardening tools readily available.

According to Wolin-Brown, the program continues to see significant expansion and interest throughout the

community, with 11 plots going to new renters this summer.

“It’s been an absolutely wonderful project,” said Wolin-Brown. “Our overarching goal is to nourish the body, mind and soul.”

Learning nature

Along with offering personal garden patches, free workshops are available for individuals of all ages to experience the potential therapeutic qualities of gardening.

According to The National Library of

How one rehabilitation alumnus inspires hope by living in recovery

Mark Oseguera found a second chance after graduating from the Santa Monica Adult Rehabilitation Center and now serves as its intake coordinator helping others find renewal, too.

BY HALEY OSNESS

At 28 years old and struggling with various social, emotional and spiritual challenges, Mark Oseguera, found himself distanced from his family and out of touch with God.

He described this period of his life as lost with no direction. “I had burned bridges, strained relationships, and cut people out of my life as a result of my behavior and active addiction,” he said.

Then, on Dec. 13, 2017, he entered the Santa Monica (California) Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC), a Salvation Army program offering spiritual, emotional and social assistance to those who have lost the ability to navigate their problems and adequately provide for themselves.

Through supportive housing, counseling, community relations and work therapy, beneficiaries of the program receive an opportunity for a second chance and to find a greater purpose.

“The program, for me, was a gift of desperation. Really, because I had nothing else,” he said. “I was in and out of institutions, jails, constantly running from my problems while not being able to face them.”

Today, Oseguera is the Intake Coordinator at the same center.

He worked for many years with Captain Tanya Pemberton, who now serves as Administrator for Program at the Anaheim ARC. She said she witnessed him transform into an outstanding individual who is making a difference in the lives of many.

“When he first came into the program, he had no contact with his daughter and family,” Pemberton said. “And now they go out, they spend time together and he’s able to be that father, son, and friend that he wants.”

After graduating from the six-month residential rehabilitation program, Oseguera returned to work as an ARC Kitchen Supervisor before taking on his current role as Intake Coordinator.

He now acts as a liaison, connecting potential beneficiaries to the program and sharing what it can do. He’s a friend that many need at a pivotal time.

The Santa Monica ARC currently has 51 men in the program, with 59 total beds available at the residence. He said that men are excelling and graduating from the program often.

With some 100,000 people dying from drug and alcohol overdoses in the U.S. each year, the ARC works to ensure men in the program experience a strong sense of care and community on the road to sobriety.

“Substances take you down a path where you become hopeless and want to find hope again—and Mark, he shows people that our program brings hope,” Pemberton said. “With just a few moments of talking to him, you see he’s happy and in a good place now.”

Mark Oseguera

For Oseguera, fulfilling this role and guiding people into rehabilitation is a path he believes is his calling.

“I was attending college, but I was undecided for a while,” he said. “After completing the program and getting in touch with God, it became clear to me.”

Oseguera said the program allowed a newfound connection to God that revealed his purpose in life, to study addiction and become a drug and alcohol counselor.

He has nearly completed an associate’s degree in addiction studies at West Los Angeles College.

“I feel that I’m right where God needs me to be, not always where I saw myself being,” Oseguera said. “But God does everything in his time and he finds the means and ways to place you where you need to be.”

According to Pemberton, beneficiaries of the program easily connect with Oseguera due to his openness, which has created a tight-knit, welcoming community of alumni and residents.

Children with Growing Gardeners complete an activity worksheet before they water plants and learn about food. |PHOTO BY SARAH McCRACKEN

VAIL VALLEY PAGE

Street Level driver delivers first step to exit homelessness

Two new Street Level Outreach vans will operate 24/7 in Spokane, Washington.

BY HALEY OSNESS

According to Street Level Lead Van Driver Jimmy Maclean, trust is the first step in getting people off the streets and into supportive housing.

Gaining trust through compassionate outreach will now occur around the clock at The Salvation Army in Spokane, Washington, with the implementation of two new eye-catching Street Level vans and the faces behind the wheel.

The Street Level Mobile Outreach program has been operating since 2019, with the goal of meeting people where they are to initiate the re-housing process through case management and connection.

“The vans make people comfortable and open to interacting with The Salvation Army in ways that work for them,” Maclean said.

Maclean has been a lead driver for The Salvation Army for eight months. He said once the vans were introduced in May 2023, he knew it was exactly where he wanted to be.

Largely through donations, The Salvation Army Spokane Citadel Corps purchased the vans and then sent them out to be wrapped in the flashy design. The artistic style is in place to showcase the work The Salvation Army is doing in the Spokane community.

One of the two new vans is set up with a computer and the paperwork needed to get an individual’s information entered into the case management system. The second van prioritizes transportation, seating up to 12 passengers, and meeting immediate needs of food, water, hygiene items, and first aid kits.

“The vans go out where the homeless are and bring hope, love, respect, resources and opportunities to exit homelessness,” said then-Corps Officer Major Ken Perine, who has since been appointed to Orange County, California. “So when they are sick and tired of being sick and tired, The Salvation Army is there.”

How it works

Maclean begins each shift by providing transpor-

tation to those in the Spokane area shelters, such as The Salvation Army Way Out Shelter, a shelter for those serious about exiting homelessness long-term, and the city-funded Trent Shelter, which offers emergency immediate housing for up to 350 people.

The Trent Resource and Assistance Center manages the maintenance expenses and staff wages for the van operation.

Maclean considers himself a people person and said he values the time spent with clients because he can be that person who’s there to listen and chat.

“I like talking to people and learning their stories,” he said. “I want residents to know me because if they know me, they can trust me and continue to build trust with me and those working to better their situation.”

Some individuals can be wary of public transportation due to mental illness, disabilities or anxiety, Maclean said. The Street Level vans provide a friendly and safe alternative so that people can stay on top of their well-being.

“They get a hold of us and then I will go to where they are staying and take them to a doctor appointment, Department of Social and Health Service (DSHS) appointment, or wherever they need to go,” said Maclean.

According to Brian Pickering, Director of Development and Communication for the Spokane Salvation Army, Maclean’s outgoing and friendly personality is a valued trait for a van operator.

“Jimmy is a great guy, friendly no matter what time of day, and open to talking to anyone,” Pickering said.

After driving around the Spokane Area shelters, Maclean ventures out through Spokane County from Cheney to Downtown Spokane to Spokane Valley, an area with concern for the growing population of those experiencing homelessness.

“I would say, on average, I bring seven people to a shelter a day,” Maclean said. “But I can provide about 30 people with water and other essentials during one trip.”

When Maclean transports clients, he is usually alone. However, when he visits areas with a higher homeless population, there are additional employees who accompany him for outreach and support.

I like talking to people and learning their stories,” he said. “I want residents to know me because if they know me, they can trust me and continue to build trust with me and those working to better their situation.

—JIMMY MACLEAN

Facing the need

The 2023 count of Spokane County, Spokane, Spokane Valley, Deer Park, Riverside, and Cheney revealed an overall increase in the homeless population. According to Spokane City, in 2023, 2,390 people from 2,136 families were counted as being homeless compared to the 1,757 people from 1,513 families in 2022, a roughly 36% increase.

The increase can be attributed to various factors such as mental illness, disability, lack of low-income housing and is a rough estimate for insight into a growing concern.

The vans deliver the presence of The Salvation Army and provide that first form of contact and connection to those who need it most, according to Perine.

“Sometimes people living on the streets don’t really have a lot of interaction with somebody who’s actually trying to help them enter the shelter system,” Perine said. “This program allows folks to interact with our Street Level drivers and teams to build trust and make progress toward getting into the shelter system.”

For Maclean, the involvement and connections have become a natural way of making a difference in the community.

“Not everyone is immediately interested in coming up to the van, but after they see us return time and time again, they become comfortable and start to see us in a new, brighter light,” Maclean said.

Maclean recalled an 18-year-old client he recently picked up from a hospital and brought to the Trent shelter, who reminded him why his role is worthwhile.

“He had been at the hospital all night, and when I picked him up he was so appreciative to just have somebody to talk to. He said I had just been moved up to his favorite person.”

Going forward, Perine and Maclean both want to see the program expand to carry larger teams per vehicle, in order to reach even greater populations.

“The Salvation Army here in Spokane is all about rescuing the perishing, increasing their ability to thrive and restoring a healthy community,” Perine said. “The outreach vans can start our efforts in fulfilling this mission.” NFC

Jimmy Maclean with one of the new Street Level vans. |PHOTO COURTESY BRIAN PICKERING

How God restored one man to fulfill his destiny in the Valley of Dry Bones

Dry Bones Live, a no-cost HVAC training program, helps individuals seeking a new direction in life.

BY KAREN GLEASON

David Barnett came back from the dead in 2021, literally. He said God just wasn’t done with him.

“I lived my own theme,” said Barnett, referring to “The Valley of Dry Bones” found in Ezekiel 37:1-14.

Dry Bones Live (DBL) is what he named the no-cost vocational training program he offers at The Salvation Army Stillman Sawyer Family Services Center in Harbor City, California, to prepare individuals to enter the workforce as a certified heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technician. Created with young adults and veterans in mind, anyone seeking a fresh start is welcome—especially in a state where HVAC technicians are in high demand.

Barnett knows what it’s like to be at loose ends—and where that can lead. As a young man, he struggled to find a profession, and for a time battled drug addiction. He conquered his addiction for good at The Salvation Army’s Haven program in Los Angeles, which provided both rehabilitation support and shelter for unhoused veterans.

The idea for Dry Bones Live came to Barnett in a dream. He said God showed him Ezekiel in the Valley of Dry Bones and told him he should trust and obey as Ezekiel did.

“As promised, the Lord breathed life into what is known today as Dry Bones Live,” Barnett said.

After launching in 2014, the program was going strong until 2020, when it shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic.

By 2022, it was time to bring the program back to life.

Barnett, however, had died. At least the hospital thought so. He had been battling Legionaire’s disease, a staph infection and eventually septic shock. His body shut down. On Christmas night, his wife, Deborah, received a call.

“We’re sorry. David didn’t make it,” the doctor said.

In shock, she hung up the phone. It immediately rang again. This time it was someone she calls “an earth angel,” who told her he was going to take the sheet off Barnett’s face and asked her to start talking to him.

“I can’t tell you what I said,” Deborah said. “It was God talking through me…All of a sudden they said his head is moving; he’s nodding to everything you’re saying.”

Deborah believes God literally breathed life back into him.

“Even then they still didn’t have hope

I tell them, it’s your journey. It’s your success that’s on the line, your ability to be financially stable. So present yourself in a way that ensures that.

—DAVID BARNETT

for him; he couldn’t breathe on his own,” she said. “They told me I had too much hope. But all I had was hope—someone told me, “No, that was your faith.”

Finding life again Barnett had “withered away,” as he

now says. At the time, he wasn’t aware of his condition.

“When I first came back to consciousness, I noticed a big change in my body.” he said. “It was depleted and my skin was all wrinkled and drawn. And I said, ‘Man, I really been through something

here.’ It took a while for me to make it back. But through the grace of God, again, I did.”

After leaving the hospital, Barnett recuperated at home for several months.

“Dry Bones Live—the name of the school—it’s restoration,” Barnett said. “In a real sense, God let me know he had power over death, over life, and he brought these dry bones back to life… To actually live that Scripture is amazing to me.”

Once he had fully recovered, Barnett’s motivation returned. He taught one program session in late 2022; another is scheduled to begin in September. Barnett runs his own HVAC business and teaches class two evenings a week. To date, he has graduated 54 people.

Recently, Barnett received a Certificate of Appreciation from the City of Los Angeles for his contribution to the local community. Commissioner Douglas Riley, Territorial Commander for The Salvation Army Western Territory, presented the certificate to him at Territorial Headquarters in Rancho Palos Verdes, California.

“He asks for nothing in return. As a person who came to recovery through The Salvation Army, he is simply looking to give back, with no thought of recognition,” said Piers Fairclough, who submitted the application for the certificate. Fairclough, a Salvation Army employee, also serves on the Harbor Gateway North Neighborhood Council.

Fairclough said Barnett was thrilled to receive the certificate, as he wants to spread the word about Dry Bones Live, which is a 510 c 3 nonprofit business. He has a vision for its future.

Through partnerships and grants, Barnett hopes to provide hand tools for program graduates as he said many employers expect applicants to already have some tools. He’s also working on building relationships with contractors so he can transition graduates into employment.

Another goal is to add more classes, including security guard training and coding instruction. To do this, DBL needs funding to bring in another instructor. Barnett recently joined the Chamber of Commerce to expand his connections within the community.

Along with HVAC training, Barnett said he instructs students on soft skills: how to apply for jobs, how to present themselves.

“I’m mentoring them during the class about sagging pants and being on time—being more acceptable,” he said. “I tell them, it’s your journey. It’s your success that’s on the line, your ability to be financially stable. So present yourself in a way that ensures that.”

Above: David and Deborah Barnett at the Stillman Center. Below: Commissioner Douglas Riley (r) presents Barnett with a Certificate of Appreciation from the City of Los Angeles for his contribution to the local community. |PHOTOS BY KAREN GLEASON AND PIERS FAIRCLOUGH

NEW DOG PARK AT BELL SHELTER ENHANCES SUPPORT FOR RESI

The Salvation Army Bell Shelter opened its first-ever dog park to offer extended resources to residents and their canine companions.

BY HALEY OSNESS • PHOTOS BY JOHN DOCTER

In a heartwarming development aimed at offering enhanced support to veteran residents and residents with service dogs, The Salvation Army Bell Shelter recently cut the ribbon on its brand-new dog park.

Resident pets can now roam and play freely within the park. In addition, 10 kennels are now available for veterans to keep their dogs if they are out or working, ensuring their personal and pet-specific needs are well-supported.

The park was made possible by a $200,000 Pet Assistance and Support (PAS) fund from the California Department of Housing and Community Development.

According to Paula Del Pozo, Bell Shelter Program Director, there are currently 270 individuals living on the Bell Shelter property. Among these clients, 12 are living with their furry friends.

“Here at the Bell Shelter, we have the capacity to house up to 500 men and women between all of the complexes,” Del Pozo said. “Veterans and non-veterans are present within all the programs, but this grant focused on veterans with dogs.”

Del Pozo said Salvation Army supportive housing prioritizes the safety and comfort of all clients by meeting immediate needs and addressing long-term well-being through counseling, life-skill development, and vocational services.

The property holds The Salvation Army Bell Oasis Apartments, providing affordable permanent housing to up to 64 residents. In addition, The Bell Shelter Wellness Center is available for individuals seeking support in their journey toward sobriety. Furthermore, the property offers low-demand housing for those who do not require assistance with substance abuse dependency.

Considering the diverse range of clients and their unique needs, Del Pozo and staff wanted a place where everyone could come together, interact with animals, and socialize with their neighbors.

“The dog kennels were still under construction when we realized that we had about $80,000 left,” Del Pozo said. “We couldn’t spend it all on leashes, beds and dog houses, so we brainstormed and decided to get creative with a dog park.”

She said the park came to life as the team renovated a pre-existing outdoor space, incorporating artificial grass, fences and an agility tube to provide additional enrichment.

“Luckily, this space already existed so it was mostly

a matter of converting it into a park,” said Amie Carillo, Bell Program Operations Director. “We had to hire a team to remove some tree stumps and build a partial roof for added shade.”

A shed for dog supplies and essentials was also included, along with two washing stations to provide a convenient way for owners to bathe their pets.

After completing the construction phase, the team shifted to beautifying the park with flowers, garden decor and patio seating.

“We wanted the dog park to have life and draw people in,” Del Pozo said.

During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, residents gathered with their dogs to celebrate. The occasion brought a sense of community as pet owners—and their furry companions—came together to socialize.

Oasis Resident Billy Morales was the first to put the park to use, giving one of his terrier mixes, Puppa, a bath.

“It’s really a nice area, and the bath set-up is helpful because they have everything I need with the towels, soap and dryer,” Morales said. “All I need to do is bring them.”

Both Del Pozo and Carillo recognized that dog parks within supportive housing can offer enhanced opportunities for those seeking shelter and improve the resources available to those already on the property.

We wanted the dog park to have life and draw people in.

—PAULA DEL POZO Bell Shelter Program Director

SHELTER RESI DENTS

“We’re excited that it’s finally complete and so happy to see residents already enjoying it,” Carillo said.

Alfred Eberlein, a veteran and resident, was eager to attend the grand opening with his Chihuahua mix. He said he adopted the dog after extended family could no longer care for him. “This is just great. It looks nice, and we will probably be here often,” he said.

The American Heart Association reported in a 2021 study that having a pet can be especially helpful in reducing stress, expanding social connections and creating an extended form of purpose.

Incorporating a dog park can significantly amplify these benefits of being around animals, even for individuals who do not have pets of their own.

Resident Casey Pereira said he looks forward to spending time at the park. “Now I don’t need to get a dog of my own because I can come here and hang out with everyone else’s,” he said.

In the future, Del Pozo hopes to begin developing partnerships with animal care specialists and non-profit pet programs to offer additional resources through pet vaccinations, medical check-ups and obtaining official documentation for the dogs.

“It’s a process, and everything brings its own challenges,” Del Pozo said, “but we are committed to offering the best resources and care to those calling the Bell Shelter home.” NFC

Salvation Army equips kids with confidence and essentials for a new school year

In Murrieta, California, schoolaged children participated in a JCPenney shopping spree and handpicked back-to-school essentials.

BY HALEY OSNESS

Aisles of a JCPenney department store filled with children’s excitement as they burst through the doors before business hours, scouting clothing that would deliver comfort and confidence for the upcoming school year.

Organized by The Salvation Army Murrieta Corps and local partners, the 25th annual Child Shopping Spree provides a free back-to-school shopping experience for more than 250 children residing within the Southwest region of Riverside County.

During the event, children and their families are matched with a volunteer shopper from Pechanga Casino and navigate the store with them. Kindergarteners to high school seniors receive a $125 budget to shop in-store for clothing, shoes and accessories that stand out to them.

Dr. Jim Yanoschik, Salvation Army Advisory Board member and president of the Murrieta Rotary Club, has been involved with the event since its inception.

“Since the Child Spree started in 1998, we have sent over 5,500 children to shop for new school clothes,” he said. “We partner with local businesses like Pechanga, Milgrad, American Pacific Mortgage, and the Rotary Club to obtain donations and volunteers.”

According to Yanoschik, community partnerships and donations help drive the operation. This year, Milgard Manufacturing presented the organization with a check for $2,500. Other financial donors included Milter Foundation, Signs by Tomorrow, and Ready 2 Smile Dental Group.

“Families can sign their children up through The Salvation Army corps, but we also get referrals from the school

districts and work with those in the shelter programs,” Yanoschik said.

Those selected to benefit from the event are local to the school districts of Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee and Lake Elsinore.

Yanoschik said the event provides new items for children while delivering additional business to JCPenney.

“JCPenney and the manager here are very appreciative of the event,” he said. “Parents also often buy items out-ofpocket, which helps out as well.”

JCPenney employees were available throughout the store to provide assistance, answer questions and fulfill price checks to ensure groups remained on track and within their budget.

One mother, Angelina Sevilla, was eager to select items with her two daughters, aged 7 and 9, who were most excited about new shoes and backpacks.

“I’ve shopped around and looked for different back-to-school sales,” Sevilla said. “But today, we’re able to complete the shopping with new outfits and gym shoes.”

Sevilla said her favorite part of the event was telling her children they could pick out whatever they wanted. “They don’t even like shopping very much but they were so excited to come today,” she said.

Murrieta Corps Officers Majors Timothy and Jessyca Carr said this event is just one of the ways they reach children in need throughout the Riverside County community.

“We do what we can to assist local children and lessen some of the stressors parents often experience surrounding costs,” Jessyca Carr said.

Across the United States, The Salvation Army operates over 400 after-school programs that introduce children to sports, music, dance and

extracurricular clubs. The Murrieta Corps provides these activities while connecting with in-need or at-risk youth through counseling and homework assistance.

According to The National Education Association, making it a priority to address social and emotional learning (SEL) can prepare kids for school while diminishing stress and social anxiety from disrupting learning opportunities.

“With middle and high schoolers, you often see that form of social pressure to fit in and have nice clothes,” Yanoschik said. “So, we really like to help out that age group.”

One Pechanga employee and volunteer, Emily Meyers, said helping children find back-to-school clothes and essentials was a fun experience that reminded her of being in their place.

“I remember some years in middle school that I didn’t really get a ton of new clothes,” Meyers said. “It’s cool to see kids come in and be able to buy whatever they want because I understand what it’s like not to get that new shirt or jacket that everyone else has.”

After carefully selecting fashionable finds, participants could choose items from tables outside that included new backpacks, books, socks, shelf-stable foods and school supplies organized according to grade level. A picture spot was also available to capture memories of the special day.

The event concluded as families had the opportunity to recharge with breakfast and coffee sponsored by McDonald’s and Starbucks.

Yanoschik and the Carrs said the noticeable number of families in need compels them to continuously develop partnerships and explore avenues to enhance their capacity to serve the youth and community.

As Yanoschik said, “We’re always eager to help the young kids and see their excitement when they walk out with bags of new clothes.” NFC

West’s youth gather for WMI, Anthem

Special guests included professional musician Howard Evans, originally from the U.K., recently appointed Bandmaster of The Salvation Army German Staff Band; and Songster Leader Samantha Turner from the U.K, who lately launched a community choir at the Staines (U.K.) Salvation Army.

ANTHEM 2023

Anthem, the event formerly called Western Youth Institute, took place Aug. 7–12 at Camp Redwood Glen in Scotts Valley, California, where 196 attendees—delegates and staff—gathered to discover God’s story, their own story, and the stories of others.

WESTERN MUSIC INSTITUTE 2023

The 2023 Western Music Institute (WMI) took place July 28–Aug. 5 at Pine Summit Christian Camp in Big Bear, California. Themed “Frequency, Tuning into the Voice that Matters,” WMI offered classes in various instruments, vocals and dance. Delegates showcased their honed skills at a midweek concert and a soloist night, and at a final concert at the Tustin Ranch (California) Corps.

“It allowed me to reconnect with friends, while making new ones. Seeing God working through their lives encouraged me in my walk with Christ,” said Syriah James, a delegate from Southern California who also noted the fun—”like having super wild lip sync battles, deep conversations at 1 a.m. in the morning, and playing musical chairs blindfolded.”

Most importantly, she said it was a place of spiritual recharge.

“Life has a way of stressing people, but Anthem al-

lowed me to realign my attention and focus on Christ,” James said. “The teaching of the Word of God encouraged me to live more out loud for Jesus. I will be courageous and share Jesus’ love and good news with those around me.

“Anthem impacted me deeply,” she said. “I feel at peace about my future because I have Jesus, and since he knows my plans, I don’t need to spend any time worrying about it.” NFC

|PHOTO BY HALEY OSNESS

|PHOTO COURTESY WESTERN TERRITORIAL MUSIC DEPARTMENT |PHOTO COURTESY WESTERN TERRITORIAL YOUTH DEPARTMENT

still missing as the search effort continues. While fanned by high winds in part from Hurricane Dora and fueled by drought conditions on the island, the official cause of the wildfires is still under investigation.

The historic town of Lahaina in West Maui, a popular tourist destination and commercial hub, was hit especially hard, nearly leveling a community some 9,000 people call home.

The Salvation Army confirmed the loss of the entire Lahaina Lighthouse Corps complex including the administrative building, church, thrift store and residential quarters. All staff safely evacuated.

“In time, we will rebuild our buildings, but right now our main focus remains serving those on Maui by not only coordinating and providing meals, but also providing emotional and spiritual care,” Trimmer said. “That expression of hope,

maybe even joy, resonated the moment

I laid my eyes on Envoy Kevin Nagasaki, the Corps Officer of the Lahaina Corps, who in the very early hours after fleeing Lahaina with his family and team, was serving the Ohana of Maui with a smile on his face and a resolve in his heart.”

The Salvation Army will also provide wrap-around services for those who lost their homes and are in temporary housing, including food boxes, kitchen items and mini-appliances, hygiene kits, infant kits, and connection to further resources. Trimmer said the ministry of presence allows people to know they are not alone.

“During emergencies, the best way the public can help is to provide monetary donations which allows the delivery of the exact relief supplies a community needs,” said Victor Leonardi, HPI Divisional Director of Emergency Services and Safety. He also serves as chair of Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) in Hawaii,

EXCELLENCE FROM PAGE 3

and weekly for gold—and holding four events annually for silver and six for gold.

Women’s auxiliary silver level includes annual or biannual officer elections, meeting four times a year, and a monthly meeting of the president and/or executive council with The Salvation Army representative. For gold, requirements include an annual membership event and an established succession strategy.

Organizations must keep accurate, up-to-date records supporting their compliance with the given standards.

To provide information “in the spirit of doing fewer things better and simplifying the way that officers and advisory organizations leaders and members access resources,” Zumaya said The Salvation Army is launching an online advisory organizations hub with materials including the Standards of Excellence. Certification applications opened Sept. 1.

Attaining gold

As a pilot participant, the Sacramento (California) Advisory Board was recognized as a gold level organization.

Captain Larry Carmichael worked with the board in his four years in Sacramento as Social Services Officer. He said the standards provide a discussion tool, especially since they originate from an external source—National Headquarters—the officer and the board can engage in a healthy dialogue as they consider what’s working and what could use improvement.

“And we all like a little competition,” he said about the

Following a congregational song and welcome prayer, Forrest spoke warmly to the new leaders, describing the conductor and first violinist at a recent musical event he had attended.

“I see IHQ under new leadership and our own leaders of the orchestra, Commissioner Bronwyn and our new General—General Lyndon Buckingham,” Forrest said. “I asked myself, ‘what is our music?’ and was reminded that we support the General as he leads The Salvation Army in accomplishing its God-given mission of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and meeting human needs in his name without discrimination. General you can count on us. God bless you.”

The IHQ Staff Band played “Still” before Leonora Ledgister spoke on behalf of IHQ employees and Commissioner Keith Conrad (International Secretary, Africa Zone) offered a prayer of dedica-

and is working closely with Maui Mayor Richard Bissen’s office through the Maui Emergency Management agency. He’s coordinating at the state level under Governor Josh Green’s office, as well as through FEMA directly with Administrator Bob Fenton and is playing a lead role in discussions about the next phase of recovery.

The Salvation Army uses 100 percent of all donations designated “disaster relief” in support of disaster operations. And The Salvation Army’s partners have stepped in to help, including gift pledges from State Farm for $150,000, Kaiser Permanente for $100,000, the PepsiCo Foundation for $100,000, and the NFL Foundation for $50,000.

“When a devastating event like this happens, I’m always in awe of the generosity and solidarity that we see from the corporations we work with, and this has been no different,” said Maria Todaro, The Salvation Army’s Western Territorial Director of Cor-

silver and gold levels. “The standards help motivate board members. Once a board reaches the silver level, it won’t want to stop there; it will go for gold.”

Carmichael emphasized the importance of the board to the Army’s success in a community.

“Officers are transient,” he said. “We look to the board to help maintain continuity of operation and consistency in our communities.”

Notably, advisory organization members willingly volunteer their time to help The Salvation Army.

“One of my core beliefs is that when it comes to volunteers, they’re as much a part of our ministry as our staff and sometimes our congregation,” Carmichael said. “Our advisory organizations are filled with professionals who are looking for purpose in their life beyond taking care of their stakeholders in their normal career.”

Carmichael said communities will benefit from the new standards.

“The tools within the Standards of Excellence point to developing a much stronger Army in every community,” he said. “And they define it in very good ways: What is the officer’s job? What is divisional headquarter’s role? What is the advisory member’s role in building toward success?”

Zumaya similarly emphasized the program is designed to make everyone’s life easier.

“Salvation Army leadership is responding to the request for more help, including simplifying the process and the frameworks we use,” he said. “This is something that we really feel is going to bring a simplification, and energy and enthusiasm to one of arguably the most important groups that you have—your advisory organization.” NFC

tion. He prayed, “May the sweet anointing of your Holy Spirit rest upon them, giving them guidance and direction as they lead your Army in your mission to bring the world to Jesus.”

Bronwyn Buckingham responded to the tributes and prayers.

“This momentous shift has profound implications for me. There is a huge blessing in the familiarity and stability [of IHQ] for me. We are 18,336 kilometres [11,393 miles] away from our family in New Zealand and we could not be much further away from our blood family. There are days when it is hard to be this far away, but you bring richness to our lives,” she said. “Deep in my heart the truth of Jesus sits firmly without wavering. He began good work in me and he will continue this until completion. Thank you for being my safe place to return to.”

Session 254 of the International College for Officers sang “Bless our Army” before the General addressed those gathered.

“I am not naïve about the challenges

and opportunities that face the Army today,” he said. “We are supposed to embrace the opportunity to bring salt and flavor to the world. Bring on the challenges because they create opportunities for us!”

Buckingham spoke about Caleb’s role described in the Bible, explaining that he would like to be 85 years old, like Caleb, and still filled with the same zeal for God as he has now.

“Can you imagine a global movement whose response is to serve God wholeheartedly? What a blessing! I want to testify to you this morning that I give myself wholeheartedly to the mission of The Salvation Army,” he said. “We give ourselves to a big God and serve him without reservation. Let’s find that sweet spot of peace, purpose and power. May it be so for the glory of God and the extension of his kingdom.”

Following warm applause, the congregation sang “He is the Lord, and he reigns on high” before Forrest closed the meeting with the benediction and grace. NFC

porate Engagement. “From PepsiCo and Kaiser Permanente each pledging $100,000 almost immediately, to AT&T setting up our Text 2 Give with no fees, and the countless local businesses in Hawaii who are rallying to support their neighbors by setting up register campaigns, providing critical resources, and hosting events to help us serve—the support has been incredible.”

In addition, more than 100 volunteers served a total of 426 hours in the 10 days since the incident began.

“They call it the ‘aloha spirit,’ and I don’t know if it’s just the island culture but everyone is so gentle and polite here,” said Nicole Kanne, Southwest Division Emergency Disaster Services Director who has served as Public Information Officer at Maui Incident Command since Aug. 15, her first visit to Hawaii. “People have been under so much stress but everyone is willing to help. Everyone is pitching in.”

The government is currently working to get people out of emergency shelters and into temporary housing in local hotels. The Salvation Army is collaborating with government and local agencies to determine what role it will play in this phase of the response while acknowledging emotional and spiritual care will be a critical component.

“We don’t know what the long-term recovery will look like, and what the needs will be during the duration,” Trimmer said, “but we are committed to meaningfully respond and to faithfully steward the trust of our donors, neighbors and friends, investing our time and services for the restoration of the people of Maui, to the glory of God.” NFC

THAILAND FROM PAGE 1

work beginning in 2014 when Majors Kin and Neva Phiouthong were appointed to initiate research and development. The work continued to advance under subsequent officers and lay personnel and a worshiping community began in 2015.

The Salvation Army’s activities in Thailand have included flood assistance, prison visitation, support for individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness, children’s camps, sports ministry, Bible studies and home visits. The corps currently has 15 senior soldiers, eight recruits for soldiership, five Sunday school participants, six corps council members, eight in the women’s group and seven people attending online meetings. NFC

NEW APPOINTMENTS

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA DIVISION

Captains Jeong-Su Kim and Jeoung-min Park Corps Officers, Los Angeles Korean Corps

RETIREMENTS

Majors Brian and Mildred Bearchell

—September 2023

Personnel Officers, College for Officer Training at Crestmont

Lt. Colonels Douglas and Sheryl Tollerud

—October 2023

Alaska Divisional Commander and Divisional Director of Women’s Ministries

COLONEL DIANNE C. HOGAN

Dec. 10, 1943 – June 12, 2023

Colonel Dianne C. Hogan was promoted to Glory June 12 from her home in Surprise, Arizona.

Dianne Cagle was born Dec. 10, 1943, in Seattle. The family’s heritage with The Salvation Army dates back to the time of General William Booth. Dianne’s great-grandmother, Carolyn Mundy, was one of the first officers to be commissioned. The family moved from England to Canada where her mother was born and where many of her family remain in the Army.

Hogan accepted Jesus as her Savior at age 10 and from then on dedicated her life to him in service. She met her future husband, Olin Hogan, at Camp Lake Boren in 1961. In 1962 she entered The Salvation Army School for Officer Training (SFOT) with the Heroes of the Faith Session, and was commissioned in 1964. She and Olin wed June 25, 1964, and began their ministry together at their first appointment in Havre, Montana.

The Hogans were corps officers for 17 years. They served in Everett, Washington (where their two children, Colleen and Loren were born); Yakima, Washington; Oakland, California; and El Paso, Texas. In 1980 the Hogans were transferred to SFOT where Dianne served first as Research Of-

ficer and then as Family Care Director and Personnel Officer. They relocated in 1986 to Phoenix, where Dianne was appointed Assistant Home League Secretary. Five years later, they moved to Alaska as divisional leaders, serving there until 1995. A highlight of their time there was their adoption into the Tlingit family. They returned to the Southwest Division as divisional leaders in 1995. Next, in 2001, they transferred to the Mexico Command, where under their leadership, Mexico became a territory. They retired from Mexico in 2009 after being asked to extend their ministry there an additional two years.

Throughout her officership, Dianne Hogan was passionate about women and sharing the gospel with them. She knew how to bring the message of hope in practical ways, so that men and women, boys and girls knew the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. She ministered through Home Leagues, senior programs, jail ministry, juvenile hall and Sunday school.

Hogan’s first priority was helping others to the foot of the cross, and this continued into her retirement. In her later years, as she endured illness, Hogan talked to people about Jesus, using Scripture, humor and conversation. She seemed to be a magnet for conversation, and others came to know God through her life.

Hogan is survived by her husband, Colonel Olin Hogan; her son, Loren Hogan; daughter, Commissioner Colleen (Douglas) Riley; grandsons: Nicholas, Zachary, Noah

Medicine, gardening can deliver a positive effect on the mind and body by combining physical activity with social interaction and exposure to nature and sunlight.

The Vail Valley Salvation Army has partnered with organizations, non-profits, churches, public and private schools, rotary clubs, and law enforcement for workshops, volunteer events, and retreats to the gardens. Wolin-Brown said they used to reach out to groups to see if they were interested, but now these groups are contacting them.

Recent visitors have included SpeakUp ReachOut, a suicide prevention outreach, and YouthPower365, a childhood assistance non-profit.

“We try to be very collaborative and welcome everyone so that they can experience some of the benefits of gardening,” Wolin-Brown said. “That’s really what makes our programs, our programs.”

Sarah McCracken, the Greenhouse and Community Garden Manager, plays a vital role in hosting and developing the curriculum for the free classes. One of the most popular courses is “Growing Gardeners,” a twice-weekly program that transforms the garden into a living classroom for preschool-aged children.

BARNETT FROM PAGE 7

A life of impact

Josue Guerrero, an early program graduate, came to Dry Bones Live when he was 21 and unsure what to do with his life.

“I went in there, and the training just opened up a whole window of opportunity,” he said. “It made me feel that I’m capable of mastering anything if I really put my mind and heart to it.”

Guerrero maximized the training, accepting an opportunity to work with Barnett in his contracting business. He did that for several years. Today, he works as a technician at SpaceX.

“If it wasn’t for Dry Bones, I wouldn’t be here,” he said. “You’ve got to have heart; you’ve got to have the willingness to move forward. I guess it’s the perspective of the person taking these courses—it’s a blessing. What

and Elijah Riley; sister, Margaret Eddy and brother, Norman Cagle.

A memorial service took place July 9 at the North West Valley Corps in Surprise, led by Commissioner Douglas Riley.

MAJOR FRED WILLIAM SEILER III

May 17, 1926 – June 3, 2023

Major Fred William Seiler III was promoted to Glory June 3 from Stanton, California.

Fred Seiler was born May 17, 1926, to Salvation Army officers Captains Bertha Ann and Fred William Seiler in New York City. He had three siblings: Dean, Donald and Alice. In high school, he played baseball and participated in the orchestra, Boys’ Glee club and the school musical. As a teenager, he met his future wife, Irene Emma Koller, at a Salvation Army Youth Councils.

After high school, Seiler joined the United States Army and served as a chaplain in the Pacific Theatre. In 1948 he married Irene, and in 1952 he entered The Salvation Army School for Officer Training; Irene was already a commissioned officer. Their first appointment was in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Family life began with the birth of Fred William IV, followed by Paul Richard, Dorothy Lillian and Emily Irene.

After serving in Pennsylvania, New York and Kentucky, the Seilers transferred to California in the early 1980s, with corps ap-

During the classes, about 25 children come to learn how food grows while they tend to a garden, pulling weeds and occasionally planting seeds. McCracken said she likes to include a snack that complements the food they are learning about.

“Growing Gardeners is a really fun way to introduce little ones to gardening and learning where their food comes from,” McCracken said. “I’ve had the pleasure of developing a curriculum for the kids, which is really exciting.”

During a recent Growing Gardeners workshop, McCracken developed a course in which the students learned about the life of a strawberry and how a single seed will start a new plant.

The children then used blenders to make a strawberry salad dressing and harvested kale to create a salad. This food pairing may have once been met with hesitation by some kids, but thanks to the workshop, they were interested in trying it.

“They’re just such an enthusiastic, adorable group,” McCracken said. “It’s my favorite part of the day.”

For Wolin-Brown and McCracken, seeing the garden’s impact on those of all backgrounds reinforces the idea that access to fresh produce and gardening opportunities can positively affect communities.

“After a parent found out that her son ate and en-

I’m saying is, run with it. Take anything you can and it’ll take you places for sure.”

Barnett said the restoration he received from God is what he wants to pass on to others.

“The education that I provide is a form of restoration,” he said. “Restoration from the aimlessness or lack of direction that a lot of my students have. They don’t know where life is going—the winds of life are gonna blow them. They’re just like leaves in it. And so why not take a little control, and put something in your brain that can steer you in a direction that can be successful and rewarding.”

In the end, he said it’s all God.

“God is all good,” Barnett said. “I’m happy that I went through what I went through. I’m happy to be in a place now where I have a great deal more appreciation for my life. It’s really a lesson, a simple lesson: just be grateful.” NFC

pointments in Santa Monica, Riverside and finally Redondo Beach. Seiler enjoyed music ministry and directed multiple Gowans and Larsson musicals.

Seiler’s business acumen enabled him to improve the financial health of many corps. His capital campaigns helped build a new corps and community center in Plattsburgh, New York, and in Santa Monica and Redondo Beach. A master of the Christmas effort, he continued coordinating kettles for many years after retirement.

In 1991, the couple retired to Leisure World in Seal Beach, California. Their continuing service to two Home Leagues, in both Leisure World and Santa Monica, enriched their lives for over 25 years. Every summer they vacationed at their lakefront cottage in upstate New York, where Seiler enjoyed boating, fishing and waterskiing. On their annual road trips to and from the cottage, they explored national parks and presidential libraries.

Seiler is survived by his children: sons Fred (Hilde) of Rochester, New York, and Paul (Carol) of Seattle, and daughters Dorothy Epsten of San Diego and Emily Seiler of Albuquerque, New Mexico; 10 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life service, led by Commissioner Paul Seiler, was recorded June 27 at the College for Officer Training at Crestmont in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, and may be viewed on YouTube (Major Fred Seiler memorial). NFC

joyed kale, she was so impressed by the program that she sent us a donation of $100,” Wolin-Brown said.

Therapeutic soil

Whether one is interested in growing their own produce to eat or simply getting their hands in the soil and tending to a harvest, there is an activity for everyone that can aid in uplifting their mind, body, and soul through the therapeutic aspects of gardening with others.

“It’s not just children who enjoy our programs,” WolinBrown said. “Some adults haven’t had much experience gardening or learning about food, so this program has beneficial aspects for all.”

In the future, Wolin-Brown hopes to relocate with the support of the City of Avon. She envisions having more space to explore new programs and desires a full-size kitchen to expand their culinary workshops.

McCracken will soon have her Horticultural Therapy certificate, and she plans to introduce therapy-based programs that can further assist the community while promoting the healing aspects of gardening.

“We’re very excited to continue to develop these community connections with other non-profits and programs in our valley,” McCracken said. “I’m really looking forward to being able to help our population a little bit more. The response is always very positive.” NFC

OSEGUERA

FROM PAGE 5

The men find comfort and company with one another through church service, group outings and even a softball team, Oseguera said.

“I stay connected and engaged so that I can show what the program has done for me and what it can do for others,” he said.

And others notice. Fellow Santa Monica ARC alumnus Jesus Vargas-Flores, who now works as the center’s Kitchen Supervisor, entered the program with a similar past to Oseguera.

“I was able to see that my background was not far off from his,” Vargas-Flores said. “Multiple times, he pointed me in the right direction and brought my attention to where it needed to be.”

He said Oseguera’s level of honesty and openness gave him hope that he,

too, could live a life beyond addiction.

Today, Vargas-Flores works alongside Oseguera, assisting men in recovery by transporting them to meetings, participating in group events and living as another example of rehabilitation.

“My life has made a complete 180 since I set foot in the ARC,” Vargas-Flores said. “Prior to the ARC, I did not have people like Mark in my life.”

Creating connections through brotherhood and fellowship comes naturally to Oseguera and it’s life-saving, Vargas-Flores said.

In fact, one of the first individuals Oseguera helped bring into the program recently graduated.

“Seeing the program working significantly for those who give it a chance is definitely motivating,” Oseguera said. “I’m forever grateful for this program that revealed God’s plan to me. I can say I’ve found my purpose in life.” NFC

CASCADE

HAWAIIAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDS

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Coos Bay Singing Company thanks supporters

The Coos Bay (Oregon) Singing Company performed at the local Lions Club and at Avamere Rehabilitation to thank them for their support, which allowed the group to travel to California to perform at the territorial finals of the ENCORE! competition during Commissioning weekend, a notable achievement for the group in its first year. Corps Officer Major Erin Kauffman leads the Singing Company.

DEL ORO

Fox Run Obstacle Course opens for campers

Following seven years of construction, The Salvation Army Camp Homelani on Oahu’s North Shore unveiled the Fox Run outdoor ninja-style obstacle course. The project was made possible by a $100,000 donation from Dan Fox-Aregger, a prominent radio personality from Oldies 101.1 FM. Fox-Aregger envisioned a space where children could play, learn and challenge their agility skills. The course offers climbing, balancing and swinging activities to nurture social connections, practice teamwork-building, and promote outdoor exercise. Rob Noland is Camp Homelani Director.

INTERMOUNTAIN

Lakers unveil new Technology Room at L.A. Red Shield

The Los Angeles Lakers and The Salvation Army L.A. Red Shield Community Center unveiled a refurbished technology room with support from NBA Careers and the Lakers Youth Foundation. The Lakers also delivered a basketball clinic in celebration of the grand opening.

The updated space will provide students with a place to complete homework and establish social connections. Newly added technology will allow youth to explore science, technology, engineering and math skills (STEM) with new desktop computers, 3D printers and virtual reality headsets.

Captains Angel and Cassandra Amezquita are Corps Officers.

SOUTHWEST

EDS responds to historic heat in Arizona

A record-breaking Southwest heatwave hit Phoenix with temperatures exceeding 110 degrees for 31 days. Among those most vulnerable were unhoused individuals who couldn’t easily escape the heat.

Norwegian street soccer team visits shelters

While in Sacramento, California, for the Homeless World Cup, the Norwegian street soccer team visited Salvation Army shelters, including the Center of Hope Shelter and Next Step Shelter, where they shared a meal and discussed the importance of street soccer in their lives. Many of the team members participated in Salvation Army programs in Norway, where street soccer is an integral component of rehabilitation, housing and recovery. The Salvation Army of Norway uses the power of sports to foster an inclusive environment, instill essential life skills, promote physical well-being, and build confidence among participants.

Majors John and Pamilla Brackenbury are Del Oro divisional leaders.

GOLDEN STATE

Denver7 and The Salvation Army empower students

In Denver the news station Denver7 collaborated with The Salvation Army for its ninth annual Pack A Backpack event to benefit students across Denver, Greeley, Fort Collins and Loveland, Colorado with school supplies.

The partnership resulted in 1,152 backpacks equipped with the tools students need to have a successful school year. Denver7 also contributed $8,000 to The Salvation Army’s fundraising efforts through a telethon, while The Scripps Howard Fund, a charity organization, donated $5,000, bringing the total to over $13,000 raised during the event.

NORTHWEST

Since May 1, The Salvation Army Southwest Emergency Disaster Team has distributed over 104,200 water bottles to aid in the hydration of 44,800 individuals. While offering information on cooling centers and nearby shelters, EDS also delivered 4,083 snacks and 6,637 heat relief kits.

Lt. Colonels Ivan and Jennifer Wild are divisional leaders.

ARCC

Homeless Outreach in Las Vegas

Striving to connect with those experiencing homelessness in Las Vegas, two members of the Adult Rehabilitation Center’s Advisory Board and an Intake Coordinator visited people living on the streets and within drainage tunnels below the city. As temperatures exceeded 100 degrees, the team offered water, sandwiches and conversation. They encountered openness to prayer and information about Salvation Army services while making their presence known.

Major James and Cathi Boyd are the Las Vegas ARC Administrator for Business and Program, respectively.

CFOT

San Francisco’s Flower Power benefits youth

The 19th annual Flower Power, held Aug. 4 at the Fairmont San Francisco and hosted by Juliette Goodrich from KPIX 5, featured a silent auction and a floral design show by Orna Maymon, and honored CEO of Union Square Alliance Marisa Rodriguez as the Woman of Distinction. All proceeds support The Salvation Army’s back-to-school and after-school programs. Over the years, this event has supplied thousands of children with the supplies they need for a successful school year.

Majors Darren and Mary Norton are Golden State divisional leaders.

Victory Church beautifies Salvation Army exterior

The Salvation Army Great Falls, Montana, received a beautification makeover from Victory Church, Great Falls. Victory Church said they chose The Salvation Army as the recipient of their Service Day Project as they wanted to benefit an organization they saw making an impact in the community.

Volunteers with Victory Church renovated and leveled out The Salvation Army’s softball field and added new benches and fresh paint to the bleachers. The team also worked on the landscape by cutting grass, pulling weeds and trimming trees.

Majors Michael and Nancy Halverson are Corps Officers.

Champions of the Mission Session arrives

Ten members of the Champions of the Mission Session of cadets arrived at the College for Officer Training at Crestmont campus in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, Aug. 10 to begin almost two years of training to become Salvation Army officers. They represent three Western Territory divisions: Hawaiian and Pacific Islands, Intermountain and Southern California.

The public Welcome of Cadets is Sept. 8 at the College for Officer Training at Crestmont. Major Nigel Cross is Training Principal. NFC

Canadian Staff Band Tours South America

The Canadian Staff Band (CSB) toured South America from July 2129, engaging in performances, ministry and music clinics. The band spent three days in Santiago, Chile, and four days in Buenos Aires, Argentina, connecting with Salvationists, community groups and locals.

In Santiago, the band visited schools to connect with children and share the band’s role within The Salvation Army, while students shared about their

Tragedy strikes Nigeria Territory

school programs and interest in music. Band members representing northern, southern and central Chile joined together in Santiago for a band clinic before all performed at a large theater.

On the final day in Santiago, the CSB visited the shopping mall, Alto Las Condes, to perform for the public.

In Argentina, band members visited the Canadian Embassy, met with Canadian dignitaries, and held a small-scale concert. Later that day, the band per-

While returning from the Akwa Ibom South East Division officers’ councils in Lagos, Nigeria, June 29, several officers and their driver were involved in a fatal vehicular accident. Eleven officers were killed, as was the driver and a 17-month-old girl.

Territorial leaders Commissioners Daniel and Tracey Kasuso traveled to Akwa Ibom on July 6 with Lt. Colonels Joseph and Ngozi Mbagwu, Secretary for Personnel and Territorial Home League Secretary, respectively. Accompanied by divisional leaders from the five Akwa Ibom State divisions, the territorial leaders visited each of the bereaved families to offer counsel and reassurance of God’s continual love. There was consensus for a mass funeral service, held at Eket Stadium July 28.

Daniel Kasuso established a committee to arrange the funerals, made up of Salvationists, divisional leaders serving in Akwa Ibom and representatives of the bereaved families, and coordinated by Major Udo Uwak, Divisional Commander, Akwa Ibom South East. Thousands of mourners attended the service.

Immediately after the funeral service, each casket was conveyed to its respective home for a brief committal, with officers assigned to perform each ceremony.

The territorial leaders acknowledged the support of then General Brian Peddle (Ret.) in assigning Commissioners Keith and Yvonne Conrad (International Secretary and Zonal Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Africa Zone, respectively) to represent him at the massed service of those promoted to Glory. NFC

Six-year mission in Myanmar concludes

The Salvation Army World Service Office, with the support of Salvation Army corps in Norway, concluded a six-year project to address the challenges of poverty, unemployment and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) within the local population of Myanmar, a Southeast Asian nation. The mission focused on communities: Kalay, Tamu, Southern, Central and Matupi districts.

The Salvation Army Norway aided in relationship building and support by starting a credit-loan program to provide financial assistance to families. Beneficiaries used the funds to start businesses, purchase livestock and plant seeds to have crops to sell in the market, all of which generated streams of revenue to improve and stabilize the lives of those local to Myanmar.

formed on the streets of Buenos Aires on the widest avenue in the world, the Avenida 9 de Julio, which features 16 lanes of traffic. During the final day of the tour, the CSB held music clinics to offer instruction and fellowship. To continue connecting with the Argentinians, the band divided into three groups and visited Salvation Army corps with local Salvationists to perform open-air concerts nearby. NFC

During the six-year partnership, The Salvation Army also collaborated with local businesses to offer vocational training for youth and job seekers living with HIV. The World Service Office recognized the program’s achievements, disclosing that 65 percent of those who completed vocational training secured employment in various fields such as welding, cooking and hair styling. NFC

Empowering and preparing students in Ecuador

Communities in Ecuador faced many challenges amid and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Many students throughout Quito, Ecuador, faced insecurities when the time came to return to in-person learning. Families faced new economic challenges as they lost jobs or received reduced income, affecting many children’s ability to return to classes with the necessary supplies for a successful school year.

With support from The Salvation Army World Service Office and in coordination with The Sal-

vation Army in Ecuador, a collaborative effort led to the distribution of 586 backpacks filled with essential supplies like notebooks, pencils, pens, erasers, calculators and rulers. The recipients, children aged 6-10, reside in the regions of Zona Rancho Alto, Guamote, Manta, Cochaloma, Cayambe and Guayaquil—locations that faced multiple challenges due to COVID-19. For many of these children, the backpacks and school supplies are the first they’ve owned and the first step in building their education. NFC

|PHOTO COURTESY INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS

|PHOTO COURTESY INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS