A Passion for Giving Back
For Crystal Butts, giving back isn't just a task on a to-do list. It’s a way of life. Her history of volunteering with The Salvation Army spans 15 years. It all started with a simple backpack drive and has grown into a powerful movement that brings Crystal’s family and workplace community together while uplifting local residents who are struggling to make ends meet.
Leading By Example
It was important to Crystal that her daughter was raised to have empathy and gratitude. Those ideals spurred her on to volunteer for Salvation Army programs and bring her daughter along.
“I wanted her to witness the real impact of community programs. I wanted her to see how lucky she was to get a new backpack and school supplies every year. There are people who carry the same backpack from 1st to 6th grade. If it wasn’t for these types of programs, many kids would have to do without. I didn’t want her to take things for granted," Crystal explained.
What started as a personal effort to help children eventually evolved into a large-scale school supply drive at her workplace. It started with her immediate team and eventually grew into a campus-wide effort by partnering across multiple employee resource groups at her company. Today, this event engages the entire employee population! All of the donated supplies and money raised supports children in the community and helps them start the school year with confidence.
Small Details Mean A Lot
Through her years of helping out on backpack distribution days, Crystal noticed that the real joy of volunteering often lives in the small, thoughtful details. Working directly on the ground allowed her to see what supplies ran out fast or what small items meant the world to a child—like cute pencil pouches, water bottles, or specific colors that make a student feel special.
"When volunteering, I would see what stuff we would be lacking on the distribution day because I'm sitting right there. That’s how I knew what we needed to get the next year. I’d see kids come in and I noticed we didn’t have certain items left to hand out. Or we didn’t have a lot of color choices when it came to backpacks."
By staying attuned to what parents and children requested, Crystal took it upon herself to act as a savvy shopper and advocate, ensuring every dollar raised goes toward the items that bring genuine relief and joy.
Removing the Stigma with Kindness and Humility
Whether assisting families during back-to-school distributions or helping parents pick out holiday gifts during Christmas sign-ups and Toyland, Crystal understands that asking for help can carry an emotional weight. Her priority is always to lead with empathy and make every family feel welcomed.
"A lot of the time, parents are uncomfortable that they have to come in and ask for the help. And, you know, I tell them, like, I'm a single parent, too. It’s okay. That's why these programs are here, to help people have one less worry. Nobody is looking down on you because you need help,” said Crystal. “Empathy is so important. It’s something I wish everyone understood…being kind costs nothing.”
Get Involved Today
Crystal recognizes that not everyone is in a position to give financially, but she emphasizes that time and presence are among the most precious gifts a person can offer. The amount of behind-the-scenes work from The Salvation Army staff and volunteers alike is what makes vital programs and services possible.
“I love helping out. Working with everybody is fun and they feel like a family to me. Sometimes I look around and think about how we’re all connected…and just one, unexpected moment away from needing a helping hand,” she said.
Inspired by Crystal's story? Contact your local Salvation Army corps today to find out how you can volunteer, give back, and help us continue meeting the needs of your community!