Salvation Army Trains Youth to Serve Their Communities
The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) teams provide a wide range of support during times of crisis, working alongside local authorities to assist first responders and survivors.
Since EDS is largely run by volunteers, preparing the next generation is essential.
In Ontario and Newfoundland and Labrador, youth training programs are available for teens who hope to become leaders, gain hands-on skills and serve their communities.
Focusing on Long-Term Impact
Trevor McLellan, EDS specialist in Ontario, says the goal is to prepare for the future.
“This project is like a long-term investment,” he says. “Our participants, who are also members of the Woodstock Sea Cadets, will likely stay on as Salvation Army volunteers for many years.”
Training typically takes place on weekends, with youth participating in activities that support EDS operations. It’s not all just theory and practice; through their involvement, they can contribute to real emergency responses.
“There’s so much behind-the-scenes stuff that they can do as part of their development. They create print material and do street outreach. These are things the kids can and love doing,” Trevor adds.
The experience participants gain through this program also provides them with transferable skills they can apply in everyday life and future careers, including planning food services and learning about emotional and spiritual care.
“You don’t have to wait for a disaster to learn how to think six steps in advance,” Trevor says.
Recently, the group demonstrated their impact by repurposing a mobile cargo unit into a communications trailer.
“These fantastic kids were able to help us rebuild it from the inside out,” Adam Marshall, director of EDS in Ontario, shares. “The value these volunteers bring us is significant.”
Engaging with Teens in New Ways
In June 2025 EDS team leaders, Sandra Lush and Robyn Courtney were approached to consider piloting a youth program in Deer Lake, N.L. It eventually launched in September and will run until June. This initiative was created to engage more with younger generations.
“There was a need to connect more with our young people and we found a creative way to do so,” Sandra says.
The group meets monthly, combining practice with community involvement. Participants have developed abilities in cooking and food service while supporting toy drives and other local events. They have also visited fire departments and search-and-rescue teams to gain insight into emergency response.
“We always have them doing something different,” Robyn says. “They are training in a kitchen or EDS truck. They are also developing their social skills.”
While still in its pilot phase, the program in Deer Lake has shown positive signs. The teens appear enthusiastic and are starting to embrace volunteerism. Sandra, Robyn, as well as EDS volunteer leads Nadine Spence and Ryan Whalen, have worked hard to create an experience that is both educational and fun.
“It’s really important for us to instill in our teens that it’s important to give up your time to help others,” Sandra says.
Looking Ahead
As these initiatives grow, it prepares new generations of volunteers to serve their communities for years to come.
In 2025, 132,840 visits for assistance were made to The Salvation Army when disaster struck.
By Juan Romero
