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“The officer must be ‘Army,’ and the board must be ‘community.’ But when we blend them properly together they will fit into an integrated team that will be of great service to God and to man.” —Dick Hagerty, Western Territorial Advisory Board member
A major factor in the development and growth of Salvation Army programs and services has been the support given by community leaders throughout the country. This “army behind the Army” has interpreted community needs, explained the programs and services and provided financial assistance, fundraising and other support to The Salvation Army’s efforts to render effective service. These friends give valued advice and assistance through their membership in organized groups such as advisory boards, advisory councils and committees, Echelon chapters, women’s auxiliaries, and as program and event volunteers. Advisory organizations are vital and necessary to the ministry of The Salvation Army. Members become advocates and ambassadors for the Army in their community and peer networks, helping to raise visibility, connections and funding that will enable and advance the ministry of the Army. Members’ expertise, experience, influence, leadership and commitment to giving and raising funds are essential for the continuation of The Salvation Army’s mission.
What does an advisory board do?
The advisory board advises and assists its local Salvation Army with various activities. Along with offering guidance, the board supports the Army financially, with volunteer service and interagency relations.
What is Echelon?
Echelon chapters offer young professionals, ages 22-35, the opportunity to positively impact the world by partnering with The Salvation Army, combining the skills and energy of millennials with the Army’s broad scope of service. Their mission is to create opportunities for fundraising, volunteering, networking and advocating for The Salvation Army in their communities.
What does the women’s auxiliary do?
The women’s auxiliary supports Salvation Army programs by fundraising for approved projects, providing volunteers, assisting in hospitals, operating canteens, distributing food and clothing and staffing emergency shelters.
Download Dick Hagerty’s e-book, ‘How to start and operate a successful advisory board.’
