President Dale shared his Two Cents. He said that in many other Rotary Clubs about 10 percent of the club does about 90 percent of the work. Well, not our Club! One of our club’s greatest strengths is the commitment and dedication of our individual members.

He pointed out that Rotary members have filled about 350 committee positions this year alone. In fact, when you include the Rotary Show and all the other events, Rotarians have filled about 500-600 volunteer positions. Way to go!

 

We’ve all seen the Bell Ringers and Thrift Stores, but did you know that our local Salvation Army also played a major role in the disaster relief efforts after last month’s big storm? Or did you know that the Salvation Army provides a summer camp where area youth have a chance to explore nature and develop self-esteem?

 

That’s right. The Salvation Army does so much more, and on Tuesday, Captain Daren Spencer highlighted the many programs that our local Salvation Army has to offer.

 

For more than 120 years, the Salvation Army has been making a difference in the Traverse City area. Their mission: preaching the Good News and meeting the needs of the community without discrimination.

 

Here are just a few programs the Traverse City Salvation Army offers to Grand Traverse and Leelanau counties:

 

The Good Neighbor Project provides help –usually assistance with medical, dental, and energy bills --to neighbors during times of crisis and need.

 

The Salvation Army’s Food Pantry, Food Shelf, and Community Meals provide “food, nutrition, and fellowship” to anyone who is experiencing hunger. Last year alone, over 16,000 meals were served through the Community Meal program.

 

The Pathway of Hope program helps families break the cycle of intergenerational poverty and establish hope for the future and financial stability.

 

When disaster strikes, their Emergency Disaster Services program provides food and assistance to victims, first responders, and volunteers as needed.

 

The Salvation Army provides many Youth Programs including camps, character-building programs, bible school, and music classes.

 

And, of course, while most of the outreach and social services are offered year-‘round, the Christmas season is a very busy time the Salvation Army. That’s when they hold the famous Red Kettle campaign (bell ringers!), which raises money for toy, gifts, meals and assistance that go to disadvantaged individuals and families.

 

The Sunday worship services are held at their headquarters on Barlow Street.

 

When it’s all added up, our local Salvation Army has provided more than 56,200 services to over 19,000 individuals and families in Grand Traverse and Leelanau counties. That sounds like way more than bells and stores to me!

 

Want to get involved? There are many ways help. They’re always looking for volunteers to serve on their Advisory Board, serve as Toy Shop Hangers, help out with Community Meal Service, and lend time through the Adopt a Teen for Christmas program or visitations, and there are many more opportunities to serve.

 

If you’re interested, contact Ruth Blick, who introduced the program, or Captain Daren Spencer at (231) 946-4644.

Check out the website for more information: www.satraversecity.org

There are 3 openings on the Rotary Charities Board. Three incumbents are actively seeking re-election: Allison Beers; Marlene Bevan; and Beth Karczewski. Likewise, there are 3 openings on the Rotary Camps & Services Board with three incumbents actively seeking re-election: Chris DeGood; Dave Millross; and Phil Rosi.