Salvation Army Bermuda Community Council is Restored to Strengthen Services
A committee in Bermuda has found new life, helping grow the organization’s work and services across the Island.
The Salvation Army’s Social Mission Community Council had been in place for a long time, but due to the pandemic, it became inactive because members could no longer meet in person.
Earlier this year, Lieutenant Lester Ward, executive director of community services, alongside his team, took steps to re-establish the important group.
“It’s more of a remobilization,” Lieut. Ward says. “The goal and purpose behind it is to have community involvement and another fresh set of lenses from an outside perspective that might be able to share some insights and ideas on how we can move the mission of The Salvation Army forward.”
“The goal is to have community involvement that might be able to share some insights and ideas on how we can move the mission of The Salvation Army forward.”
The council is made up of people from different corners of the Island. All of them volunteer their time to this important initiative. Some represent organizations that consistently collaborate with The Salvation Army. Members meet bi-monthly, receive updates on the work in Bermuda and discuss ways to enhance fundraising efforts, as well as housing, food security and outreach services.
“We wanted diversity within the group because many brains come up with more great ideas,” Lieut. Ward adds. “We don’t all think the same thing and that outside perspective helps us become better known throughout the Island.”
One of the committee’s current priorities is supporting the ongoing renovation of The Salvation Army’s Harbour Light building, which facilitates addiction recovery and support services. The valuable advice and professional insight shared by members will not only help improve services but also identify ways to make the project more cost-effective.
Lieut. Ward also shares that in the months since the council’s re-establishment, connections have increased. As one example, The Salvation Army in Bermuda has once again been allowed to fundraise in locations that, over time, had ceased.
“This all has been an amazing resource,” Lieut. Ward shares.
“We want everyone to know that they have the opportunity to be a part of The Salvation Army’s work.”
Mrs. Beverly Daniels, chair of the community council and former executive director, says the commitment shown by the advisors has been inspiring.
“When I asked each member if they were willing to serve again, without exception, everyone said, ‘Count me in,’” Beverly says. “It gave them a sense of purpose and they feel very connected.”
Those involved also volunteer at Salvation Army events, setting an example in the community.
“The people of Bermuda need to know that while we depend on them to assist financially, there are other ways they can contribute to the work of The Salvation Army,” Mrs. Daniels adds.
As the council regains momentum, Lieut. Ward and Mrs. Daniels both hope more people will become involved in the future.
“We want everyone to know that they have the opportunity to be a part of The Salvation Army’s work and take part in not just a transactional experience but a transformational experience,” Lieut. Ward and Mrs. Daniels share.
By Juan Romero
