Salvation Army Volunteers Bring Hope to West Branch

In communities without a traditional Salvation Army corps community center, volunteer-led Service Centers ensure neighbors can still find support close to home. 

In West Branch, Ellen is one of four volunteers helping individuals and families through difficult circumstances. The center opens three mornings a week, but volunteers also return calls, coordinate with community partners and work behind the scenes to find solutions. 

A retired teacher who spent 41 years in the classroom, Ellen has deep roots in West Branch. After retiring, she volunteered with The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Christmas Campaign before joining Service Extension. 

Today, she assists people facing utility shutoffs, food insecurity, homelessness and transportation challenges. Help may mean paying part of a bill, making phone calls or connecting someone with another agency. 

“For the most part, we try to find a solution for anybody’s problem,” Ellen said. 

Local knowledge is one of the volunteers’ greatest strengths. They work closely with churches, law enforcement, government agencies and other nonprofits. When The Salvation Army cannot meet an entire need, volunteers often know who else to call. 

These volunteers listen, encourage and guide their neighbors through challenges year-round, not just during the winter months when requests for assistance increase.  

For Ellen, the work also means treating people with dignity. “We don’t want people to feel like they’re getting a handout,” she said. “We want them to feel that we’re their friends.” 

Experienced volunteers train newcomers and work beside them until they feel comfortable, while team members step in whenever extra help is needed. 

“There’s never a day that I walk out of here that I don’t feel that I’ve helped somebody,” Ellen said. “And that makes me feel so good.” 

Be part of the difference in your community.  

Whether you give a few hours or volunteer regularly, your time can help The Salvation Army serve neighbors when they need it most. Visit volunteer.central.salvationarmy.org to learn about opportunities near you.