Hamilton Celebrates Volunteers
On April 22, 2015, The Hamilton Area Ministries of The Salvation Army gathered at WinterberryHeights church to honour volunteers at our annual Volunteer Appreciation Night. Special guests were Majors Morris & Wanda Vincent, Divisional Commander and Divisional Director for Women’s Ministries, and Major Gord Armstrong, The Salvation Army PanAm Games Representative. Twenty valuable volunteers from each ministry were invited to be recognized and appreciated through speeches, music, multimedia and awards.
Dan Millar, Area Director or Public Relations and Development, welcomed the guests and thanked the volunteers for being a part of the ripple effect, which was the theme for the night. Major Morris Vincent spoke to the volunteers and congratulated them on their many efforts, faithful service and dedication to The Salvation Army. Major Gord Armstrong presented on volunteer opportunities for the upcoming PanAm games this summer. Musical entertainment was provided by and Major Brad Donais and his sons, Ryan and Mike who brought vocal items during the program.
Particularly moving, was the video presentation featuring Derek and Angela Kerr and Dundas Community and Family Services. The Kerrs shared their story of receiving the support of The Salvation Army in their time of need. Feeling the acceptance and hope provided by Dundas CFS, Derek, Angela and their children have given back as volunteers through various events and can be found during the Dundas Food Drive collecting donations door to door. Through their story other family members and friends have joined the ripple effect and have volunteered their time to help others.
The highlight of the night was the presentation of the Applause Awards. Each ministry unit selected a committed, compassionate, energetic and selfless volunteer who was a part of the ripple effect this year, to receive their Applause Award. Major Morris and Wanda Vincent introduced, congratulated, and took photos with this year’s recipients of the Applause Awards. The award winners displayed the very best in volunteering, many giving over twenty years of service to The Salvation Army.
The Hamilton Area Ministry Units are very thankful for all of our volunteers. They give of themselves to promote goodness, improve the quality of human life and bring hope and dignity to the marginalized members of our community.
Please view our volunteer appreciation video http://youtu.be/zl6vCGdL5vo and for more information on volunteering with The Salvation Army, click here.
