Finding Purpose Through Service in Traverse City
For Sherry, volunteering with The Salvation Army of Traverse City is about more than serving a meal. It’s about making connections, learning people’s names and making sure everyone who walks through the door feels welcome.
Sherry began volunteering after moving to Traverse City in 2020. Following the death of her husband, she knew she needed to find a meaningful way to fill her days.
“I thought, ‘I’ve got to get busy,’” Sherry recalled.
Having supported The Salvation Army with her husband over the years, she stopped by the Traverse City Corps Community Center and offered to help. She began serving meals periodically, but after recovering from a fractured ankle in 2022, she returned with a new commitment.
“I said, ‘I want to be on a regular schedule. I’ve got to have purpose for each day,’” she said.
Today, Sherry volunteers every Monday and Wednesday, helping prepare for meal service, serving clients and cleaning up afterward. On an average day, she estimates the team serves between 85 and 110 meals.
But for Sherry, the most important part of volunteering happens across the serving line.
She makes an effort to learn names, greet familiar faces and ask about their lives. A simple “We’ve missed you” can help break down barriers and remind someone that they are seen and valued.
“I look forward to coming and interacting with them,” Sherry said. “It warms my heart to be able to help others.”
Volunteering has also given her a deeper understanding of the needs within the Traverse City community — and the important role volunteers play in meeting them. In addition to her work with The Salvation Army, Sherry has volunteered with local food rescue efforts, transporting donated food to organizations serving neighbors in need.
“The volunteers are the backbones of these organizations,” she said. “They need the support of people who are willing to give up their time.”
Her advice to others is simple: “Make some room in your life to give to others.”
Ready to make a difference in your community? The Salvation Army offers volunteer opportunities for individuals of all ages, interests and schedules. Visit SalvationArmyVolunteer.org to find an opportunity near you and start giving back today.