I am involved with a lot of different volunteer activities because I am a part of a sisterhood, scholarship and service organization. During the MLK Day of Service on January 11, 2012 I was assigned to go to the Salvation Army with my group and we volunteered at the center for the entire morning. After having that experience I decided to go back again and I devoted one Saturday morning and afternoon at the Salvation Army, located in Mattoon, IL. I thought it would be great for this assignment.

“The Disadvantaged Family” has covered several concepts for the semester. We have discussed: poverty and children, disadvantages of women, single parents and families in poverty, just to name a few.  The service activity allowed me to reminisce on some of the concepts that have been discussed previously in class. At the center I sorted through clothes, toys, books, linen and even accessories. I was instructed to go through all of the bags and boxes that were donated and put them in their perspective places. In class we discussed several centers, business and organizations that are available as resources and help for those families in need. Some of those places include soup kitchens, shelters, WIC office and several other organizations.  Salvation Army is one of those organizations as well. The organization provides families in need with food, clothing and even furnishings. At the activity I was in the vicinity with other students and volunteers. We had conversations about classes, work and even other places we have volunteered before. It was a good experience and was amazing to see how many other people did volunteer work as well. I gained new acquaintances and knowledge about other opportunities that I could possibly get involved in. The service organization has a great impact on the community. Families whether they are a large family or just a few members, are able to come to the center and receive some of the basic life essentials. It provides a sense of stability and resources that many people need. Because of all the different resources that are provided, families receive a variety of things that they need to survive.

I believe my passion is to help the unfortunate. It made me think about how fortunate I am to be blessed with a family who is not living in poverty and that have the resources I need to survive. Even though I don’t have everything I want and desire, I am blessed beyond measures. I just feel like it’s my duty to help those that are in need because I am stable to do so. Volunteering at the Salvation Army was a great experience and I’m glad that I was able to volunteer my time at a place that have the same focus and mission that I someday wish to have at my own center.