Building for the Future in Saginaw
The Salvation Army of Saginaw celebrated more than a renovated building during a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the grand reopening of its corps community center. The celebration represented a renewed investment in the people and families of Saginaw—and in the work that will take place within its walls for years to come.
Captains Jacob and Melinda Tripp welcomed Salvation Army leaders, community partners, staff and local officials to the revitalized center. Capt. Jacob Tripp emphasized that while the new floors, fresh paint and updated rooms were worth celebrating, "buildings are only valuable because of what happens inside them."
That message was echoed by Lt. Colonel Randall Polsley, secretary for business administration for The Salvation Army Central Territory, who shared the well-known parable of three bricklayers.
In the story, three workers performing essentially the same task are asked what they are doing. The first focuses on the bricks he is laying. The second sees his work as building a wall. But the third understands that his individual contribution is part of something much greater: building a cathedral.
The parable illustrates the power of purpose—and how seemingly ordinary work can have an extraordinary impact when it contributes to a greater mission. That message applies to the newly renovated Saginaw Corps Community Center and to everyone who helped make it possible.
Polsley noted that the center’s impact will be especially meaningful for young people. “You never know what impact you’ll have on the children who come through these doors,” he said.
The celebration included State Rep. Amos O'Neal, Eugene Seals Jr. of the Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce, Patrick Findlan of PARTNERS in Architecture, PLC, Kevin Roth of Wobig Construction Co., Lt. Colonel Steven J. Merritt, divisional commander for The Salvation Army Great Lakes Division, along with other community leaders, Salvation Army staff and supporters.
The reopening builds upon a Salvation Army presence in Saginaw dating back to 1890. Today, the corps community center begins another chapter as a place where neighbors can build relationships, children can find a safe space to belong, families can receive help with dignity and people of all ages can find connection and hope.
Like the bricklayers, countless people helped build something bigger than a renovated facility. Together, they helped create a place designed to serve Saginaw today—and make an impact for generations to come.