75 Years of Impact in Atlanta

The women of the Metro Atlanta Area Command Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary (MAAC SAWA) gathered at the Atlanta Temple Corps on April 16 to celebrate their diamond anniversary — 75 years of serving God and the people of Atlanta through the ministry and mission of The Salvation Army.

Starting as a group of influential citizens dedicated to helping their neighbors through local service in Atlanta in 1951, these women are proof that local commitment can make an impact even far beyond city limits.

The anniversary event welcomed National Secretary for Program Commissioner Dawn Heatwole from National Headquarters as the guest speaker.

Commissioner Heatwole offered a personal look into what The Salvation Army is doing internationally. Having spent five years overseeing 10 countries in Latin America where resources are limited, but commitment is very much present, she gave testimony to how groups like MAAC SAWA are having an impact even around the world.

She described ministries like senior homes in Cuba and Panama and schools in the Dominican Republic.

She highlighted powerful stories like children in Brazil finding safety through after-school programs in gang-controlled areas, young women in Kenya learning trades that protect them from exploitation, and artisans in the “Others” fair-trade program earning income to send their children to school.

Around 72 percent of The Salvation Army’s ministry around the world is funded by the U.S. territories. Fundraising from groups like the women’s auxiliary goes to support local corps, who in turn help support World Services, so the full impact of a group like SAWA is not only local, but international.

Through every example and across every country, Commissioner Heatwole emphasized the same truth: while The Salvation Army may look different from place to place, its mission is the same.

“We’re all doing ministry for the people that need it in our community, and we can do it in different ways. It looks different every place, but we’re still The Salvation Army.” Commissioner Heatwole continued, “On behalf of National Headquarters, I just want to say thank you for your work, for the fact that you believe in the mission, and that you come alongside those of us who wear the blue [uniforms].”

After a prayer of thanks and blessing, SAWA President Pam Henley drew attention to the event program that included the organization’s national and local history, as well as a list of past presidents and leaders who served. She thanked the 10 past presidents in attendance, saying, “For an organization to survive and flourish for 75 years, it takes a village of ladies with strong leaders. Each of you has given selflessly of your time and energy to help make this organization what it is today.”

Since its founding in 1951, the Atlanta women’s auxiliary has helped with fundraising events like fashion shows, rummage sales, and perhaps most importantly, the Kettle Krush 5K, which has been their major fundraiser for the last nine years. As of this year, they have raised more than $1 million through the Kettle Krush fundraiser, funds that go to directly support corps, youth programs, and social service efforts locally.

Metro Atlanta Area Commander Major Stacie McWilliams thanked the ladies for their partnership and closed the event in prayer, asking God, “Direct these women. Use their beautiful hearts and their willing spirits to continue to get out there and raise money, to spread the word of The Salvation Army, and continue to help us be able to further the Kingdom.”

MAAC SAWA is dedicated to serving the Atlanta community through fundraising to help mitigate poverty and homelessness along with support for youth in underserved communities. Thanks to their care for their community and love for their neighbors, these women have been helping The Salvation Army change lives and make an impact in Atlanta for 75 years.