Salvation Army Heroes Behind the Shield: Highlighting Volunteer Barb MacKey
The work of The Salvation Army would not be possible without a team of dedicated Volunteers – the Heroes Behind the Shield. Their generous contribution of time and resources help The Salvation Army provide life-changing services to those in need across the Maritimes.
One of those heroes is Barb MacKey, who volunteers with The Salvation Army Saint John Hope Community Church and Family Services location in New Brunswick.
Since Barb started volunteering with The Salvation Army in August of last year, she has become a familiar, welcoming face that can be seen three to four times a week, assisting where needed.
“My favourite part is working in the Hope Café downstairs. I help make toast and, bagels and deliver tea and coffee to our clients that stop in for breakfast,” shared Barb. “I like being able to sit down with some of the clients and talk to them personally, to get to know them. I like hearing their stories and being a listening ear for them.”
When asked how volunteering with The Salvation Army has impacted her life, Barb shared that “it makes me feel good to know that I’m making a difference in someone’s life. Not only that, but that they are making a difference in my life too. When I’m out in the community, I often run into clients – it’s nice to connect with them outside of the café. Volunteering has helped me become more active and find ways that I can make a difference. I just like being around people.”
Barb feels at ease with the team at Saint John Community Church, finding a welcoming and supportive environment that encourages her to be herself. She appreciated the genuine sense of camaraderie and acceptance they provide.
“She is always inviting and welcoming people in the community and letting them know what resources The Salvation Army offers,” said Lt. Jason Brinson, TSA Corps Officer of Saint John Hope Community Church, and Family Services. “Barb has a genuine desire to help people. She puts her heart and soul in whatever she is doing; it doesn’t matter if it’s the Hope Café, shelter support, Christmas registration – if we need help, we can always count on her.”
In closing, Barb shared the following about encouraging others to volunteer: “Volunteering at The Salvation Army teaches you who you are and who God means you to be – He has a plan for all of us. And, sometimes, that means reaching out to a community beyond the four walls of the church. We all have something we can do for God; there is always something we can volunteer to do.”
If you want to become a Salvation Army volunteer, like Barb, and join our Heroes Behind the Shield, please visit https://bit.ly/TSAVolunteerAtlantic to apply online.
