Salvation Army Volunteer Experience - Elise Redmond

1.      I volunteered at the Salvation Army back at home in Chicago.

2.      This volunteer experience definitely reflected concepts learned in class. I bagged and distributed different food items to those in needs. I instantly though about the discussion we had in class about those unfortunate individuals living in poverty as well as the working poor.

3.      While volunteering at the Salvation Army I met some wonderful people their. i met one lady and she really wanted to me to come back over the summer and work. I told her that I’m staying in Charleston and she told me that she was sad. We exchanged contact info and decided to keep in touch. The director of the food pantry recommended that I come home to do my internship their as well. I really enjoyed working with them. I met some genuinely nice people.

4.      I think this is very essential to the community. I think that the different food being distributed to those in need is great. Everyone can’t afford groceries and with the Salvation Army’s help is amazing. I can tell that those individuals who came to pick up food were very happy and appreciative.

5.      Overall this experience was great. I bagged different food items for a few hours then I ended up helping distribute the food bags. It was a learning experience and I was so happy to help those individuals in need. This experience definitely had an impact on my life; I am learning to not take things for granted. Those individuals who were less fortunate were so grateful to receive the food. I am so appreciative that I was able to volunteer with the Salvation Army and gain the experience and knowledge.