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The Salvation Army in Sarasota: Changing Lives Every Day

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The Salvation Army in Sarasota,

Changing Lives Every Day

By Lalaena Gonzalez Figueroa

For over 80 years, the Salvation Army has been an integral –if often unassuming- organization within the Sarasota community. A Christian-based charity whose reach spans beyond any single religious belief, the Salvation Army offers families and individuals a variety of programs and services which are designed to change lives for the better. 

Perhaps best well known for its holiday bell ringers, the Salvation Army is a well-managed organization that operates 365 days a year, offering much-needed support to a range of individuals. Locally, the Salvation Army provides housing for over 200 homeless families, women and men; serves upwards of 700 meals every day; offers residential treatment for substance abuse and mental issues; and hosts comprehensive programs designed to assist families in creating better futures for themselves. At a time when a reported 68% of homeless are experiencing this crisis for the first time in their lives, the Salvation Army is now, more than ever, a critical resource for the community at large.

With over 80% of its donations dedicated to direct services, the organization calls itself the charity “Doing the Most Good.” The Salvation Army’s Sarasota headquarters, the Center of Hope, is a 65,000 square foot facility that features a shelter as well as social services and administrative offices. The center relies upon the financial support and manpower of local residents, who find that there is always a use for their talents. From fundraising, to mentoring, to decorating for special events, Sarasotans and nearby residents find that they have ample opportunities to offer their time to make substantial differences in the lives of others.

In 2009, the Salvation Army in Sarasota was recognized with The Salvation Army National Social Services Award For Program Excellence and Achievement for its FAITH Program, which boasts an impressive success rate. The program is a comprehensive approach to empowering residents to make lasting changes in their lives. By teaching life skills and holding parents accountable for improving themselves, the FAITH Program provides a wealth of tools designed to enable parents to provide brighter futures for themselves and their children. It’s not an easy fix; in addition to holding full time jobs, participants in the FAITH Program are mentored in financial responsibility. They pay off debts, learn money management, and begin to build nest eggs in order to avoid future setbacks. The program has had a strong impact on participants; the Sarasota Salvation Army reports that in 2008, 82% of formerly homeless families moved into permanent housing thanks to their newfound skills and knowledge.

The Sarasota Salvation Army has benefited tremendously from the support of the Rotary Club, and hosts high-profile events such as the annual back-to-school supply drives and the Glitz at The Ritz-Carlton fundraiser. But the organization continues to rely on the ongoing generosity of local residents as well. Every donation touches an individual or family in need, and helps make profound changes in countless lives. Grassroots efforts such as community food drives, neighborhood donations to the Salvation Army thrift store, and the volunteerism of individuals are making a lasting impact within Sarasota and beyond.

The Salvation Army
Center of Hope
1400 10th Street
Sarasota, FL 34236
(941) 954.4673
www.salvationarmysarasota.org

Copyright © 2010 REAL Magazine

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