A Heart of Service: Celebrating the Spirit of Volunteering at the Salvation Army
In the heart of the city of St. Louis, a celebration of service and dedication unfolded at The Salvation Army’s Department Headquarters on Hampton Avenue.
The day marked a special occasion—a heartfelt recognition for two of the organization’s most steadfast volunteers, Joanne Renard and Pat O'Donnell, who were honored by Captain Sharyn Tennyson for their unwavering commitment.
Volunteer Manager, Shawndell Williams, opened the ceremony with a warm smile, addressing the room: "I am so grateful for our volunteers," she began. "These individuals could choose anywhere to lend their time and skills, but they chose us—The Salvation Army. Their dedication, loyalty, and long-term commitment are appreciated and cherished from the bottom of my heart."
Next it was Joanne’s turn to address the gathered company, her eyes glistening with emotion. "Joining The Salvation Army brought joy and immense gratitude to my life," she shared. "The friendships and kindness I've encountered here are unparalleled—aside from being in heaven itself, this is the best place I could have ever hoped to be a part of."
Joanne Renard
Pat followed, her voice steady and inspiring. "It feels great to serve!" she exclaimed. "Starting from a simple Christmas event to now assisting the finance department, every moment spent here reinforces why volunteering is so crucial. It not only benefits our city but resonates worldwide. If you’re thinking of volunteering, this is the place to start."
Pat O'Donnell
Captain Sharyn Tennyson, moved by the testimonials, presented the awards with gentle grace. "Today, we not only honor Joanne and Pat but also celebrate the spirit of all our volunteers. They are the backbone of our community services, turning our mission into reality."
The ceremony concluded with a sense of unity and purpose. As people mingled, sharing stories and congratulations, the true impact of volunteering was palpable in the air—transforming lives, one act of kindness at a time. If you would like information on volunteering, please visit www.salarmymidland.org/volunteer.
On The Salvation Army’s website, this story serves as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging others to step forward and experience the profound impact of volunteering. It's a testament to how every individual can contribute to a greater good, creating ripples of positive change that echo throughout the community and beyond.
