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Special guest Margot Perot encourages continued Army support.
by Melissa Axman –
On March 5, more than 80 Salvation Army donors gathered for a reception—hosted by the Phoenix Advisory Board, officers and staff—to announce the formation of a William Booth Society in Phoenix, Ariz. Margot Perot, a founder of Dallas’s William Booth Society and its first chairman, was the evening’s special guest.
The William Booth Society is a nationwide program which recognizes, thanks, honors and informs individuals, corporations and foundations who make an annual gift of $5,000 or more to support Army programs and services in a local community.
During her remarks, Perot, recently honored as a life member of the Army’s National Advisory Board, spoke of the organization’s outstanding work both nationally and internationally. Expressing gratitude for the attendees’ past support, she encouraged them to continue their support of The Salvation Army. It is more important than ever, she said, to keep on helping the Army do its work during these difficult economic times.
“The night was truly amazing,” commented Lt. Col. Doug Danielson, Southwest divisional commander. “Margot Perot’s presence really made our donors feel special and appreciated. We look forward to growing the society’s membership this year as we continue to express our gratitude to those who have supported us in the past.”
Wallace Larson, chairman of the Phoenix Advisory Board, acknowledged the long-time commitment of many being inducted into the society. During her introduction of Perot, Phoenix’s William Booth Society Chair Marlene Klotz-Collins detailed the mission of the society and requirements for membership. She also praised Perot’s leadership in the William Booth Society movement and her commitment and dedication to The Salvation Army.
The event took place at the Arizona Foothills Magazine’s Designer Showhouse 2009, a 23,000-square-foot estate nestled in the foothills of Mummy Mountain in Paradise Valley. The builders—F.O. and Brent Buck—offered the use of the estate at no charge.
Members of the Phoenix Advisory Board, Sigma Contracting and Grizzard underwrote the reception.