Called to Serve: Carol Bonner's Heart For Volunteering

For Carol Bonner, volunteering at The Salvation Army is about much more than giving back. It is about walking alongside others, building relationships, and answering a calling to serve.

Originally from Hamilton, Ohio, Carol spent most of her life in the same community before relocating to Winston-Salem in 2016. A retired kindergarten teacher, she and her husband made the move to be closer to family after their daughter settled in the area. Today, they enjoy having their family together, including their two children and two grandchildren.

Family has always been central to Carol’s life. She speaks with pride about raising her two adopted children and the joy of watching them grow. She and her husband also share a love of travel and history, spending their retirement exploring Europe and learning about the lives and experiences of people from different cultures.

Those experiences helped shape Carol’s perspective on service.

“I love to be around people. I love to hear their stories,” she said. “I like to know how God brought them to where they are.”

That desire to connect with people led her to volunteer with The Salvation Army. Carol says her faith has taught her that service should always come from a place of humility and gratitude.

When Carol Bonner talks about volunteering at The Salvation Army, she does not focus on what she gives. Instead, she talks about what she receives: purpose, community, and the opportunity to walk alongside others in their journey.

Since becoming involved with The Salvation Army, Carol has become a dedicated volunteer who helps meet practical needs for families while creating a welcoming environment for those who come through the doors. Whether she is providing childcare, organizing the clothing closet, assisting new families, sorting donations, or connecting resources to people who need them, Carol approaches every task with the same mindset: serving others with compassion and dignity.

“I don't want to focus on feeling like I'm doing good,” Carol said. “I want to feel like I'm working alongside other people in order to serve God.”

That perspective is what makes her service so impactful. Rather than seeing volunteer work as charity, Carol sees it as an opportunity to join God in His work and support people through difficult seasons of life. She believes everyone has faced moments when they needed help, encouragement, or strength from others. Her goal is to be that source of support for someone else.

Carol first came to The Salvation Army through friends and other members of River Oaks Community Church. What began as a simple invitation quickly became something much deeper. She discovered a ministry that serves families every day and addresses needs many people never see.

“Before I came, I used to think Salvation Army was just bell ringers,” she said. “I don't think people understand the need that so many people in our community have.”

Today, one of Carol's favorite things about volunteering is knowing that the work truly matters. She appreciates the challenges that come with serving and the creativity required to meet needs with limited resources. Every day presents a new opportunity to help a family, solve a problem, or make someone feel seen and valued.

“I love the challenge of finding ways to help people who truly need our help. I love the fact that we're helping families,” she said.

Throughout the year, Carol also helps with special programs such as Angel Tree and family events that create meaningful experiences for children. As a retired kindergarten teacher, she understands how important those moments can be and enjoys helping make holidays and celebrations special for the families The Salvation Army serves.

Perhaps most inspiring is Carol's belief that anyone can make a difference. Volunteering is not about having special skills or unlimited time. It is about showing up, caring for others, and being willing to help wherever there is a need. At The Salvation Army, she has found a place where ordinary people can have an extraordinary impact.