In the latest episode of Mission Nonprofit, three Salvation Army auxiliary members discuss their work in the community and an upcoming fundraising event, the 51st Annual Silver Tea.
The Tea takes place Saturday May 12, is open to the community, and raises funds for the important work by the Salvation Army. As a full high-tea complete with food, musical entertainment, and silent auction, the event is set to be a fun way to give to a good cause.
And the Olympia Salvation Army certainly has many causes they are working to assist with in the community. In addition to providing emergency lodging for the houseless, a community kitchen that offers three meals every day of the year, the Salvation Army has many more programs serving the community.
Originally founded in London in 1865, and later in Olympia in 1889, the Salvation Army has provided vital aid and support to people for over 100 years.
Many know the Salvation Army by their holiday bell-ringers, those in storefronts collecting charitable donations during the holiday season—one of their busiest times of the year also spent running a bazaar, the Giving Tree, and a toy drive. But they also offer back-to-school supplies, clothes, and summer camp scholarships to children in need.
Thanks to members like Major Phyllis Pease, Co-Chair Julie Pietz, and Historian Judy Berg, the Salvation Army is able to provide these services to the community. These women are part of the auxiliary branch of the organization, which began in 1966. The auxiliary members help to coordinate volunteer programs and fundraising for the organization.
Judy Berg first joined the Salvation Army as a child with her family in Chicago. She adds that the organization also has an Advisory Board, which consists of outside members from the community. She notes the board’s role in keeping the Salvation Army accountable to others.
Though the Salvation Army is also a Christian church, the auxiliary is open to those who are not necessarily members of the church, but who simply want to donate their time to the community.
“I’d love to hear from folks,” says Julie Pietz, who began as a volunteer three years ago, and now works in publicity and membership. “I’m looking for ladies that would like to be a part of an organization like ours.” She invites people to attend one of their monthly meetings, even just to observe to see if they would like to continue. Meetings are the second Monday of the month, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Just by talking and getting into a conversation, Julie says, you can get an idea of what it is you might want to do. “We allow people to find their niche and then go for it,” she shares.
“We do need people with energy, and who are willing to give their time,” Judy adds, “It’s something that you will enjoy. It will make you feel good.”
There are many ways to become involved with the mission of the Salvation Army, as there are many growing needs in the community. As a volunteer, you can donate a small sum of your time. If you wish to donate money, all financial donations stay within the Thurston County programs.
Of course, you can also attend the upcoming Silver Tea at 2 pm May 12, held at the Salvation Army headquarters at 1505 4th avenue E Olympia.
Visit their website, or call 360-352-8596 to find out more ways to give.
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