Greetings from the National Advisory Board Chair

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Greetings from the National Advisory Board Chair

A Year of Positive Change

I have been a member of The Salvation Army’s National Advisory Board (NAB) since 2018 and chair since 2020. As I enter the final year of my term as chair, it continues to be an immense privilege and joy for me and fellow board members to support the impactful work of the Army in 400 communities across Canada and Bermuda.

Suffice it to say, the pandemic that dominated 2020 and beyond, disrupted social connections and changed how we interacted with friends, family and co-workers. Gratefully, this past year marked the board’s return to in-person meetings, and face-to-face interaction with Army leadership, officers and staff. In addition, we had opportunity to again witness first-hand the front-line work of the Army, which included visits to Toronto Grace Health Centre and The Gateway in Toronto; and Sunset Lodge, Connection Point, Victoria Citadel and the Addictions and Rehabilitation Centre in Victoria.

This is an exciting time of board renewal, where we celebrate the contributions of longtime NAB members whose terms are concluding, and welcome new members and their fresh perspectives. Over the past year, this process has resulted in the addition of several outstanding people who bring a wide range of experience and expertise including HR leadership, change management, government ministry leadership and the social sector. We are thrilled to have them join with our continuing members to provide guidance and insights in relation to both the key strategic issues facing The Salvation Army today and assist in identifying key questions and areas for focus in the future.

As chair, and part of a group motivated by the critical work of the Army, I hope to continue along the path we are already firmly on. One that comes alongside those whose dedication to serve gives countless numbers of people in need hope for a brighter tomorrow.

Paul Koreen
Chair
National Advisory Board

REASONS TO SUPPORT THE SALVATION ARMY

The Salvation Army has a proven track record that goes back more than 140 years in Canada, and more than 150 years internationally. It is now one of the world’s largest providers of social services.

The Salvation Army helps one person at a time, believing that each person is infinitely valuable and equally worthy.

The Salvation Army is present in 400 communities across Canada and Bermuda and in 133 countries around the world, offering services in 175 different languages. When disaster strikes, the Army is often already there living in the community and is able to provide immediate aid and relief in the most culturally relevant way. It also means the Army will still be there long after the immediate needs have been met.

As an international Christian church that welcomes everyone, The Salvation Army’s faith motivates its social programs. Donations from the public at large, which includes money from individuals, foundations, corporations and all levels of government, are used for community and social service programs.

The Salvation Army works through a large quasi-military organizational model that includes volunteers, committed members of The Salvation Army, its officers and staff. There is no organization that can more readily mobilize itself where and when the need is greatest.

The Salvation Army has been recognized with the highest level of excellence in ethical fundraising and financial accountability that Canadians can trust. The Salvation Army is now one of just over 300 charities in Canada that has earned Imagine Canada’s national Standards Program accreditation. Imagine Canada believes that charities and non-profits have a responsibility to be innovative, transparent, accountable, ethical and well governed.

The Salvation Army is managing its administrative and fundraising costs in a reasonable manner given the size and scope of the organization, in order to provide the best programs and services that deliver transformative outcomes for the people we serve.

All funds donated to The Salvation Army are used by The Salvation Army, or agencies of which it is a member.

Social and community service programs focus on nurturing the capacities, skills and strengths of individuals rather than just giving them a handout.

All social and community services are equally available without discrimination.

ANNUAL REPORT 2022-2023

All other photos property of The Salvation Army or used with permission.