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Major Paul Fleeman, Divisional Commander Joanne Bemis, Development Director The Salvation Susan Eustice, Public Relations Director Volume 24, No. 1 Lauren Scarboro, Public Relations Intern
Spring 2013
BaconFest Omaha VA Housing Expansion
www. G i ve Salv at ion Ar my .org
UNITED NATIONS 57TH COMMISSION ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN By Dr. Linda Burkle
Army Salute
It was a dream come true! Ever since I studied the United Nations (UN) and human rights while working on my doctoral degree, I have wanted an opportunity to go to the UN. That dream became a reality Childhood Nutrition when I was notified that I was one of four women appointed to represent the Central Territory as delegates at the 57th UN Commission on the Status of Women NGO CSW Forum convened March 4-15, Programs 2013. Since 1947, The Salvation Army has been participating in the UN as a non-governmental organization D.J.’s Hero Awards (NGO), influencing global policy initiatives through resolutions and collaboration. More recently, The Luncheon Salvation Army established the International Social Justice Commission, with representatives in New York, Vienna and Geneva. It was created to be The Salvation Army’s “strategic voice to advocate for human dignity and social justice with the world’s poor and oppressed.” The 2013 priority theme for the 57th UN Commission on the Status of Women was “Elimination and prevention of all forms of violence against women and girls.” Concurrently, numerous topical sessions were hosted by both the UN and non-governmental organizations. One of these events was conducted by The Salvation Army, entitled “Violence and the Church: A Salvation Army Perspective”. It was my unique honor to represent our territory on this panel of three, moderated by an officer from the Southern Territory. Truly, this experience was a microcosm of global feminine humanity, representing a movement of change makers unified around the universal call to action of Ending Violence Against Women and Girls. My personal high point was attending the Opening Session of the General Assembly in the iconic UN auditorium. March 8 was also The International Day of the Woman. An inspiring march took place with several dignitaries and celebrities participating. To coincide with this historic Commission convocation, President Obama signed the Trafficking In Persons Reauthorization Act and Violence Against Women Act into law. Dr. Linda Burkle, I am proud of The Salvation Army’s role in “loosening the chains of injustice” and “setting the divisional director of social services. oppressed free.” (Isaiah 58:6)
CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS WITH PURPOSE It began with a single volunteer at The Salvation Army Lincoln Corps. Once a week, she would drop by the corps and tutor Brianne, a student in the after-school program. Brianne loved to learn, but her family had a tough time making ends meet. Computers were unavailable in her home, and both her parents worked minimum wage jobs. By the time they returned home at night, they were both exhausted and had little time to sit with their bright young daughter. Brianne was falling behind, until she began attending The Salvation Army’s after-school program. Marcie, her volunteer tutor, was nice to Brianne. She worked and played, laughed and listened as Brianne would recite her day at school. Marcie had so much fun seeing how simple one-on-one attention could have such a dramatic effect in Brianne’s life that she approached the corps officer about giving a presentation to her employer’s board of directors. Continued on page 2 Brianne continues to do well in school thanks, in part, to the Lincoln, Neb. Corps’ After-School program.
Letter from the Divisional Commander Dear Friend, This year we’re observing our 125th anniversary here in Omaha. But old age hasn’t slowed us down. Just the contrary. We’re moving faster than ever with a spring in our step, new ideas and hearts prepared to help. Take a look in this issue of the Salute and read about the services we are providing in Nebraska, South Dakota and Western Iowa. The stories are rays of hope during tough times. They show opportunities for donating time or money to The Major Paul Fleeman, Commander of The Salvation Army’s Western Division Salvation Army that will do the most good. “Keep moving forward” is not only a motto. It’s our direction. As we move forward in the Western Division, we are finding new and better ways to serve our communities. The Salvation Army just broke ground for a new center in Lincoln, Neb. A brand new emergency service mobile canteen is providing hope and help in Ft. Dodge, Iowa. A collaboration with Robert’s Dairy is paving the way for improved services in Fremont, Neb. New summer youth feeding programs are popping up throughout the division, increasing our ability to deliver services even more efficiently. Many of our programs are directed to helping youth become better citizens.
New Indoor Turf Field at the Kroc Center The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center is buzzing with excitement now that the indoor turf field is finally being The new turf field. installed. In fact, by the time you read this, the field will be fully operational, teeming with children and adults playing soccer indoors! It seemed a natural transition to turn one of our three gyms into a permanent indoor turf field. Please drop-in and check it out!
CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS WITH PURPOSE Continued from page 1 “I’m sure you’re expecting me to ask for money to help with our after-school program. I acknowledge that your financial support is important, but that’s not why I’m here,” the officer began. After citing some statistics and telling a few stories of student success through the after-school program, the officer closed with the main message of his presentation. “So, yes, your financial support is key to our program. But just as important, what I really came to ask of you today is your time,” said the officer.
Here in Omaha, our headquarters moved out of the Lied Renaissance Center last year, a 1906 building greatly in need of renovation. We’ve carefully studied the issue and find that replacing the center with a new social service building is the best use of donor funds.
“Marcie is such a great volunteer, and a great example to our kids. If she is typical of your company, then I’d like to see more people like her in our building. I’m here to thank you for Marcie, and I’m seeking additional volunteers,” the officer said in his warm, confident tone.
We’re excited about the idea of a new building totally dedicated to the services that do the most for our clients. New initiatives to serve the Omaha community, the Kroc Center in south Omaha and unprecedented growth at the Omaha North Corps -- are all prime examples of how we “Keep moving forward” in the Western Division.
Six months passed after that presentation with no response from the company, so the officer sensed it had been a lost opportunity. Marcie came into his office again one afternoon. “There’s another board meeting tomorrow. Can you make it? We’d love to have you join us,” said Marcie.
Not bad for a 125 year old! With best regards,
The human resources department had been re-tooling their employee manual and developed a volunteer policy wherein all employees had the option of taking one afternoon per week, with pay, to volunteer at The Salvation Army.
Major Paul Fleeman Commander, Western Division “125 Years Caring for Omaha.”
Since the initiation of this wonderful corporate partnership, Marcie has begun serving on The Salvation Army’s advisory board. Additionally, the company has underwritten the cost of the after-school program.
Hands-on Volunteer Opportunities www.GiveSalvationArmy.org
Save the date for our annual Back-to-School backpack program. Volunteers will be needed to sort school supplies, fill backpacks and help with distribution along with other activities in August. If interested in any of the above, please contact the volunteer department at 402-898-6000.
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Tenth Anniversary Year for “Just Can It!” Students from the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity left their soft beds to build and live in cardboard homes at the Crossroads Mall for one week this spring. It was the UNO group’s tenth annual effort to make people aware of the plight of the homeless that exists in the city of Omaha. The “Just Can It!” homelessness awareness event was held April 1-5. Past fraternity chairs and alumni gathered in support of the 2013 food drive. In collaboration with the fraternity, the City of Omaha held a food drive in support of “Just Can It!”. In addition, Miracle Hills area businesses held food drives, and Omaha Fire Stations also served as collection sites. The goal of raising 40,000 nonperishable food items for the “Just Can It!” crusade was ongoing. All food collected throughout the month of April was counted into the “Just Can It!” totals.
From left to right: Tanner Johnson, UNO Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity member and the 2013 Chairman of the “Just Can It!” event and Joel Wallace, UNO Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity advisor.
Winter Night Watch – Season 24 For 24 years, the Winter Night Watch program has provided the homeless with hot food and warm clothing during the coldest months of the year. We hope that the individuals and families served know that someone really cares about them. More than 170 volunteers were out on the street every weekday evening beginning December 1 through February 28. They donated more than 1,000 volunteer hours and served 18,340 meals during that period. This program began in 1988 serving those living under bridges, in parks and wherever they could find shelter. Winter Night Watch continues to be a valuable program to the community. Approximately 90 percent of those served are men over the age of 40 while four percent are women and just one percent were families with children.
Through dedicated, compassionate commitment, Winter Night Watch serves those living ‘on the fringes’.
As important as the program is, we could not have provided the service without dedicated and caring volunteers and generous donors. Thank you for being there when your support was needed most. It is a privilege to do God’s work alongside such wonderful volunteers.
Save the Date: Aug. 11, 2013 BaconFest Omaha The Salvation Army loves Omaha, especially our new South Omaha home – The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center. As we celebrate 125 years of making Omaha a better city, we decided it was time to shake things up a bit, and we created BaconFest Omaha! Feel like testing your hog-calling skills? Join us for a fundraising event that benefits the Kroc Center and its programs. It will be a day of food, entertainment and a menu of activities for all ages.
This is your opportunity to enjoy something we all love - BACON! while supporting The Salvation Army’s latest innovation in making our community a better place for all. Come be the sizzle that assures Kroc Center programs continue to be vibrant and accessible to everyone, regardless of their resources. Find us on Facebook. Facebook.com/ BaconFestOmaha.
BaconFest Omaha takes place on Sunday afternoon, August 11, and will feature a Chef’s Challenge competition, opportunities to sample different types of bacon, activities for children and entertainment by some of our region’s finest bands. The growing presence of bacon-themed shows on television and the success of bacon events around the country (especially in Des Moines where 8,000 tickets were sold in 5 minutes) inspired divisional director of development, Joanne Bemis, to imagine that the Kroc Center, on the former site of the Wilson Meat packing plant, was the perfect place to launch Nebraska’s first festival about bacon.
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Veterans Administration Housing Opportunities Program The Salvation Army Omaha Social Services Homeless and Behavioral Health Services Department was awarded an expansion grant to expand the current Veterans Administration (VA) Grant Per Diem Program. Before the expansion, the program served 10 veterans who were experiencing behavioral health issues. The expansion allowed for an additional 25 veteran households for singles, couples and families. Participants need to present as homeless or with very high risk of homelessness and be a veteran of the United States armed forces. Veterans reside in community-based housing, either in apartments or singlefamily homes while receiving supportive services and rent subsidies. The program empowers participants to gain the skills and resources necessary to Peer support specialist William Jones is a U.S. military veteran and former maintain the housing after the supportive services end, leading the household resident of The Salvation Army CASS program. New funding allowed the Army to expand housing for veterans who are homeless or low income. to long-term permanent housing. The program also provides peer support services. The Peer Support Specialist is a military veteran who may also have been homeless or low income. William Jones is the current peer support specialist. When the opportunity to provide peer support opened, William was excited about the new challenge and opportunity. As a military veteran and program participant, William has the ability to relate to program participants and offer hope through the program. His story is one of great success on how the VA programs can truly end homelessness for many veterans. In addition to the staff provided through grant funding, the local Veteran’s Administration provides support staff through liaison services which provide the majority of referrals to the program and also provide support to program staff. The decision to apply for the VA-HOP came from analysis not only within The Salvation Army Omaha Social Services, but also by assessing the needs of the local community and identifying gaps in services. Ending veteran homelessness is not only an initiative within the Omaha community, but across the country, as the Federal Strategic Plan to End Homelessness has set a goal of ending veteran homelessness by 2015. When a veteran, and potentially their family, becomes homeless, it is important that every effort be made to assist the household in regaining stability and ensuring safe, affordable housing. “Not only will the program change the lives of the participants it serves, but it will also move toward the long-term goal of eradicating homelessness among veterans across the country. No person should be without safe housing, especially someone who has fought to protect the lives of our own families, friends, and neighbors,” said Lisa Vukov, program director of the 37th Street Readiness Program.
Young Professionals Kettle Klub Cabinet Timeline In March the Young Professionals Kettle Klub Cabinet gathered to discuss upcoming fundraising and volunteer opportunities for The Salvation Army. A calendar of activities was approved, and now the work begins. April
-- Social gathering and The Salvation Army Thank-a-Thon at Northwestern Mutual - volunteer services
June
-- College World Series Tailgate - social
August
-- Golf tournament - fundraiser
October
-- Red Kettle Run - volunteer services
November
-- Group gathering - social
December
-- Bell ringing - volunteer services
There’s more to come from this lively and engaged group of young professionals in the Omaha community. Read more about them and their activities as young servant leaders in our upcoming Salute newsletters. Follow them on twitter @SalvationArmyYP. Young Professional Kettle Klub Women.
Save the Date: 4
May 7: D.J.’s Hero Awards Luncheon May 13-19: National Salvation Army Week July 1 – August 10: Back-to-School Drive August 11: BaconFest Omaha
Lifetime Volunteers To say Dick and Cathy Maxwell retired in 1997 would be like saying Tom Osborne hung up his Nebraska jacket when he retired from coaching. In February, Dick and Cathy were recognized for their long-standing commitment at a volunteer recognition breakfast held at The Salvation Army Kroc Center. The Maxwell’s began their “volunteer careers” at The Salvation Army before Dick’s retirement from Western Electric. The couple rang bells and helped deliver Thanksgiving meals. Fifteen years later, the Maxwell’s donate time to many Salvation Army programs including Back-to-School, Christmas Sign-up, Adopt-aFamily, D.J.’s Hero Awards Luncheon and food drives benefitting The Salvation Army. In recognition of their outstanding achievements, the Maxwell’s were presented with the President’s Call to Service Award. In 2003, President Bush established the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation and the Volunteer Service Award program as a way to thank and honor Americans who, by their demonstrated commitment and example, inspire others to engage in volunteer service. The President’s Call to Service Award is the highest award the Council can bestow and is awarded in recognition of a lifetime of volunteering with a minimum of 4,000 hours.
Major Paula Fleeman, Salvation Army’s City Commander, presented Dick & Cathy Maxwell with the prestigious President’s Call to Service Award.
Congratulations, Dick and Cathy!
Making a Difference through Childhood Nutrition In Nebraska, 96,700 children, or 1 in 5, are not sure where their next meal is coming from. Filling the nutrition gap is critical, as hunger increases children’s risk for illness and is a severe obstacle to learning. Regular access to healthy, nutritious meals can make a big difference for these children. Through innovative collaboration with local service providers, national funders and dedicated community members, we have redesigned the way we provide nutrition services across the Western Division. Some of the changes include serving free community meals in a warm setting where people can get to know their neighbors, teaching kids and their families how to cook healthy meals and live more actively, providing more fresh produce in our food pantries and empowering clients to choose the specific food items their family will use. Also included are the operation of the innovative Kids Café and Backpack Buddies meal programs and pioneering a new model of meal program service delivery through the Kids Cruisin’ Kitchen program. Here are just a few highlights from the past year:
Kids Cruisin' Kitchen brings free meals to where kids play in the summer. In 2012, Omaha Material Assistance and Seasonal Services operated a second food pantry location at The
Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center for a second full year, began SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; formerly food stamps) outreach at both service locations and transitioned the Lied Renaissance Center to a Consumer Choice pantry, joining the Kroc Center and Lincoln Corps’ use of this model. Pantry provisions in Omaha alone increased by 18 percent in 2012, serving over 9,000 families.
Only 10 percent of children eligible for free or reduced school lunch have access to regular meals in the summer. Kids Cruisin’ Kitchen (KCK), a collaboration between The Salvation Army, Food Bank for the Heartland and Hunger Free Heartland, is an example of how agencies can work together to solve these problems of food affordability and access. KCK serves free hot meals where children already congregate such as recreation centers, pools and parks. KCK started in 2011 in Omaha and Plattsmouth, expanded to Lincoln in 2012 and will begin in Norfolk, Neb. in 2013. The Salvation Army also operates the Summer Food Service Program in Fremont, Neb. and in Omaha at the Kroc Center, Gene Eppley Camp and North Corps. Through its participation in this national program, The Salvation Army is part of Share our Strength’s ‘No Kid Hungry’ campaign generously funded by the ConAgra Foods Foundation, Feeding America and the Walmart Foundation - and draws approximately $100,000 in federal funds annually to feed children. We will serve over 20,000 meals in just three months to kids across the Western Division this summer.
Make Your Reservations Today! Contact Patti at 402-898-7700 x 111 or register at GiveSalvationArmy.org
May 7, 2013 11:45 am The Salvation Army D.J.’s Hero Awards Luncheon CenturyLink Center Omaha Featuring Keynote Speaker – Emmitt Smith
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Opportunities for Easy Deductions This Year It may be difficult to believe, but there are easy ways to make a gift to charity while lowering your taxes. Here are some ways that gifts of insurance and your retirement assets can provide you with valuable income and estate tax savings. Have you looked at your life insurance lately? Perhaps you have more coverage than you need. If you own an insurance policy that you no longer wish to maintain, consider giving it to The Salvation Army. You will receive a charitable tax deduction, and we can use the proceeds to help further our mission of doing the most good for people in need. One idea is for you to transfer ownership of your insurance policy to The Salvation Army and then make annual gifts in an amount equal to the premium payments. You will receive a charitable deduction each year, and
Baxter Wins Prudential Award Salvation Army volunteer Allie Baxter was named one of two of Nebraska’s top youth volunteers of 2013 by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, a nationwide program honoring young people for outstanding acts of volunteerism. Allie was nominated by the United Way of the Midlands in Omaha. The Prudential Award winner Allie Baxter Prudential Spirit of Community pictured with her father, Nick Baxter. Awards, now in its 18th year, is conducted by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). Allie, a senior at Millard North High School, started The Salvation Army’s ‘Red Kettle 5K Run’ in 2010. The fall charity event, that marked its third anniversary in 2012, has collected more than 80,000 cans of food to stock the Omaha Salvation Army pantry for the high-demand of those in need during the holiday season. Congratulations, Allie!
we will use your gifts to maintain the policy for the continuation of our work. A gift of retirement assets is another easy way to generate tax benefits. You can continue to enjoy and make use of your IRA, 401(k) or 403(b) during your lifetime. By designating us as beneficiary of all or part of your plan, The Salvation Army benefits from what remains when you pass away. And your estate could enjoy future tax savings. There are many ways you can make a difference for our mission that have little or no impact on your lifestyle. Ask us about creating a plan that provides you with tax benefits today and a legacy in the future. To learn more or to obtain appropriate beneficiary wording, please call Jan in our Western Divisional Planned Giving department at 1-800-274-0628 or e-mail her at jan_gines@usc.salvationarmy.org.
Job Training for Teens at the Kroc Center At The Salvation Army Kroc Center, we believe job training for youth has a lasting impact. Teaching more than basic skills, it also encourages self-confidence, responsibility and the value of service. Our continued success with our lifeguard job skills training has teens 16 and older learning how to ensure the safety of pool users and respond to emergency situations. The success of this training has prompted us to create two new job skills training programs. How many teenagers get their start in a food service job? Now they have an opportunity to train at the Kroc Center under an executive chef and his culinary team learning skills for food preparation, safety and presentation through our new Food Service Training Program. We are also excited to introduce our exclusive new Referee Training Program. Through a partnership with the Midwest Officials Association, we are teaching young adults the skills needed to be a referee for basketball, flag football and soccer. The Referee Training Program is the first of its kind developed in Nebraska to train young adults ages 12 and up on how to be a referee. Continued on page 12
Spirit of Nebraska Girl Scouts in Ogallala, Nebraska Help Fight Hunger Sometimes we skip a meal because we are dieting. Sometimes we stop eating candy because we know that it may not be good for us. These are choices. For some families, skipping a meal is not a choice; it’s the effect of not having enough money to purchase food. The effects of skipping a meal for children may be devastating to physical and mental development. It may result in malnutrition and poor performance in school. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 17.2 million children in America are at risk of hunger. A national study late last decade found that 16.8 percent of Nebraska children have limited or inconsistent access to nutritional food. Hunger and malnutrition also affect adults. In 2012, 8.4 percent of U.S. households with seniors (2.5 million households) were food insecure. Protecting oneself from food insecurity and hunger can be difficult.
Spirit of Nebraska Girl Scout Troop 10029 of Ogallala, Nebraska.
This is why the Spirit of Nebraska Girl Scouts and The Salvation Army have collaborated on collecting nonperishable food items in western Nebraska to fight hunger. The Fight Hunger Campaign is an annual food drive to stock the shelves of the Army’s pantries in North Platte, Grand Island, Kearney, and Hastings.
This spring, the Spirit of Nebraska Girl Scout Troop 10029 in Ogallala, Neb., under the guidance of their scout leader, Jeana Smith, has committed to reaching out to 4,000 homes in Ogallala asking for contributions for the food drive. Their collections will go to the North Platte Corps to help families in the area which includes Ogallala. Several local businesses in the Ogallala area have come together to sponsor the printing of the door hangers. The local Sun Mart grocery store is contributing the bags and boxes for the collection of the food items.
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Fighting hunger is something the Girl Scouts take seriously in Nebraska!
Partners in Caring How Businesses Support Those in Need Roberts Dairy is a business leader in our community. To The Salvation Army’s Fremont, Neb. Corps, they are caring partners helping feed those in most need. At Christmas, when a request was made for milk for 450 people in need, Roberts Dairy stepped up and offered its assistance. The Christmas meal was made complete thanks to help that came from a business that recognizes its role in the community includes being a good neighbor. “Roberts Dairy knows the importance of being a good neighbor and community member. We are pleased to support The Salvation Army since they are instrumental in helping make our community a better place to live,” said Bridgette Hinsley, Roberts Dairy foods representative.
Another partner in caring is in the Bellevue, Neb. area. In 2009, Grupo Bimbo became the largest bakery company in the USA. Today, Bimbo Bakeries USA operates a plant in Bellevue. The website states its corporate social responsibility: “Making a difference is an every day task at Bimbo Bakeries USA. We are grateful for the resources and talent entrusted to us by the communities in which we work. We strive to be good stewards of the environment and to support our neighbors in meaningful ways every day.” Thanks to Bimbo Bakeries, The Salvation Army’s Citadel Corps’ after-school program participants are eating healthy, nutritious meals that include some of Bimbo’s finest bread. The Salvation Army is grateful to all its caring partners, and we extend our deep appreciation to those who help us offer hope to those in need.
Sioux City Collaboration to Combat Homelessness The Sioux City, Iowa Corps, which serves counties in all three states in the Western Division – Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota - is at the center of an innovative community collaboration to provide transportation services to homeless families and individuals in the Siouxland area. One of the significant barriers to successful transition into stable housing and employment for people experiencing homelessness is a lack of transportation. Being able to get to work or to doctor and other appointments is an important part of a successful transition out of a crisis situation. The Sioux City Corps provides transportation services using its fleet of transportation vans as well as providing cab vouchers and bus tickets. The objective of the program is to allow people staying in emergency shelters or transitional housing to get to school, work or other appointments in order for them to move into permanent housing and shorten the time spent in shelters.
Major Von Vandiver, left, was recently appointed as chair of the Siouxland Coalition to End Homelessness.
The Salvation Army works with residents and staff from the following organizations to provide services: the Council on Sexual Abuse and Domestic Violence, Bridges West Transitional Living, Welcome Home Transitional Housing, the United Methodist Shesler Hall for Women, the Veteran’s Administration and Siouxland Mental Health. One of the key components of the program is transporting children to school. The goal of the program is to allow children to attend the same school they have been attending after they have entered an emergency shelter. Program director Warren Baker coordinates with the shelter providers to make sure that each child is transported to their regular school the morning after they enter a shelter. This program is a result of The Salvation Army’s involvement in community collaboration and participation in the Siouxland Coalition to End Homelessness. The coalition is a group of more than 30 service providers, government officials, faith groups and businesses that work together to combat homelessness in the Siouxland area. Last fall, Major Von Vandiver was elected to a two-year term as chairperson of this group.
Western Division Disaster Services Needs When a disaster strikes, The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services teams are there to meet the basic needs of those who have been affected, both survivors and first responders. Salvation Army workers and volunteers help minister and express God’s love. The Salvation Army’s goal is to offer material, physical, emotional and spiritual comfort. The Western Division has 19 canteens ready and able to respond and provide assistance. We have trained staff and volunteers dedicated to do God’s work through The Salvation Army. We are currently looking for individuals interested in disaster services work. We need volunteers willing to undergo training and drive our mobile canteens to local and possibly national disasters and provide emergency assistance. For more information contact John Kuzma, Divisional Director of Service Extension/Emergency Disaster Services, at 402-898-7700 x134.
Program Director, Jim Sells, a group of appreciative youth, and program aide staff member, Carla Sharp stand in front of their newly donated 12-passenger vehicle that was recently given as a gift to the Omaha North Corps Community Center. Thanks to Mike Simmonds and Woodhouse Auto Family.
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Camp Kroc and All It Has To Offer Summer boredom is a thing of the past! At Camp Kroc, learning and fun go hand in hand with a diverse range of activities that packs in all The Salvation Army Kroc Corps Community Center has to offer. The program is designed to give campers the opportunity to stay physically and mentally engaged by balancing educational activities like reading and computers with traditional camp activities like archery, pottery and swimming. Camp Kroc is open to children in grades 1 thru 7 and runs May 28 through August 2. Campers are invited to sign up from one to all nine weeks. A healthy breakfast and lunch, prepared by the Kroc Center’s own Executive Chef, is included.
At Camp Kroc, children are inspired to discover new interests in a safe, fun and affordable atmosphere.
Camp Kroc is the perfect place for kids to discover new interests; be inspired to learn; develop life skills such as leadership, a sense of community, teamwork and self-esteem while developing friendships. Camp Kroc is the perfect place for kids, to above all, have fun! Parents can count on a quality, safe and affordable program that ensures kids have an exciting and memorable summer. For more details about Camp Kroc, visit OmahaKroc.org.
Helping Families Live Healthier Lives The Salvation Army is a long-recognized leader in combating hunger but is now a significant player in helping people of all ages live healthier, more active lives. Through grant funds from the Walmart Foundation and the ConAgra Foods Foundation, Omaha North Corps reached a milestone in 2012 when its Kare Kitchen served over 37,000 nutritious meals in one year. Community meal programs are also operating in Iowa at the Ottumwa and Fort Dodge Corps and in Nebraska at the Norfolk and Kearney Corps. Omaha North Corps has also reached a long-time goal to start the Young Chefs Healthy Cooking program for kids. The Fort Dodge Corps provides a similar cooking program, equipping kids with practical skills, a set of safe kitchen utensils and healthy yet simple recipes. The Kroc Center’s Healthy Home Project received a highly competitive General Mills Champions for Healthy Kids grant, one of just 50 organizations nationwide chosen from more than 1,100 applicants! This prestigious recognition led to additional funding from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and private donors. Free to anyone in the community, this innovative project addresses childhood obesity by teaching The Ewing family received their Healthy Home Project families nutrition education, behavior modification and routine physical activity. The certificates of completion and were winners of a one-year membership to the Henry Doorly Zoo, generously provided by success of this pilot project led to the development of referral and funding United Healthcare Share Advantage. partnerships with United Healthcare Community Plan, the Children’s Hospital HEROES for Clinical Intervention program and Boys Town Pediatrics. Additional sponsors and funders include Hy-Vee Food Stores, University of Nebraska Lincoln’s graduate program in nutrition services, the Nebraska Extension Office and the CarMax Foundation. Over 120 people have participated in the Healthy Home Project and enrollment is at capacity for the next two sessions. This year the FitnessGram assessment system, the standard now used by public schools and endorsed by the Presidential Fitness Initiative, as well as a series of healthy cooking classes for youth will be introduced into the program.
The Celebration Has Begun! The year 2013 marks the 125th anniversary of The Salvation Army in Omaha built around the theme, “125 Years Caring for Omaha.” The Omaha Citadel Corps, known as the No. 1 Corps, opened in February 1888 at 416 South 19th St. In 1938, Omaha became headquarters for the newly named Western Division. The corps went through more than 20 addresses and various names before ending up on a five acre campus at 36th and Cuming street in 1990 which was valued at $2 million. The Lied Renaissance Center was a gift from Nebraska Methodist Midtown Hospital. Events throughout this year will commemorate the anniversary. “We’re moving toward another 125 years of caring for Omaha,” said Joanne Bemis, divisional director of development and community relations. Last September, divisional headquarters moved from the Lied Renaissance Center, a 1906 building in need of renovation. Plans are underway to replace the social services center with a more efficient facility.
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Above and Beyond the Call of Duty For the past 24 years, dedicated volunteer Harry Reyburn has directed The Salvation Army’s Winter Night Watch program that provides warm food, clothing, and kindness to hungry, homeless individuals in Omaha. During the past five years alone, more than 60,000 people were provided nutritious meals. Shortly after his retirement in 1989, Harry came to The Salvation Army to put his time and talents to work. He immediately stepped in to take the lead on the newly established Winter Night Watch program. He continues to volunteer more than 20 hours a week during the program’s annual threemonth operation. He does all the recruiting, training and scheduling … and so much more. By his actions, as well as his words, he has taught many volunteers how important the gift of caring is to those in need. With that, the program’s 2013-2014 volunteer schedule is already filled. Recently, he took on the additional task of recruiting and scheduling volunteers for our summer feeding program. Over the past two years, Kids Cruisin’ Kitchen has served more than 20,000 breakfasts and lunches to children who do not have access to nutritious meals. Harry is also always ready to pitch in and help other departments with short-notice projects and deliveries around the city. As we look on the many gifts Harry has given to The Salvation Army, we are humbled by his generosity of Volunteer Lifetime Service Award nominee, spirit, his kindness of heart, and his love of life. We Harry Reyburn. proudly nominate him for The Salvation Army’s Volunteer Lifetime Service Award.
The Locations of The Salvation Army Mobile Canteens in the Western Division are as follows: Aberdeen, S.D. Beatrice, Neb. Boone, Iowa Des Moines, Iowa Fort Dodge, Iowa Grand Island, Neb. Kearney, Neb. Lincoln, Neb. Mason City, Iowa Norfolk, Neb. North Platte, Neb. Omaha, Neb. Ottumwa, Iowa Rapid City, S.D. Sioux City, Iowa Sioux Falls, S.D. Watertown, S.D.
“Did You Know?” The Salvation Army began in London in 1865. The Salvation Army didn’t become The Salvation Army until William Booth, its founder, adopted the name in 1878. By 1880 The Salvation Army was working in the U.S., Europe, India, Australia and South America. The first Salvation Army missionary hospital opened in 1901. During World War II, The Salvation Army led the formation of the national United Service Organization in 1941. USO was created to serve the religious, spiritual and educational needs of the men and women in the armed forces. The Salvation Army serves people in 102 countries. The Salvation Army has over 9,600 centers in the USA. Salvation Army mobile canteens bring food, clothing, blankets and medical supplies to disaster locations. It also helps reunite families and help those in need find emergency shelter. The Salvation Army provides over 450,000 meals annually in the Western Division alone. This is accomplished through more than 40 adult meal, food pantry, residential care and youth meal programs. That in 2012, volunteers across the Omaha/ Council Bluffs area donated over 97,000 hours of their time supporting various Salvation Army programs!
An Easy Way to Create Lifetime Income and SAVE ON TAXES If you are looking for a way to create income for yourself now or in the future, there are two charitable gifts you should consider. A charitable gift annuity funded with your low performing stock or CDs can provide you with a charitable deduction and fixed income for life. Rates are based on your age and a portion of your payment could be tax free. Please contact us to view an illustration with your rate and potential income. Creating a charitable remainder trust is another way to receive a tax deduction and income. When you transfer your appreciated stock or real estate to fund a charitable remainder trust, you can also avoid capital gains tax on the sale of your assets. The trust will sell the assets tax free and then use the invested proceeds to pay you income for your life. And your income could potentially grow with growth in the trust assets. To learn more about charitable life income plans and their benefits, please contact Jan in the Planned Giving Department at 1-800274-0628 or jan_gines@usc.salvationarmy.org. The Salvation Army Planned Giving Department of the Western Division serves Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota. Please visit our website at www.SalArmyGiving.org to sign up for a free monthly e-newsletter. Our Gift Legacy e-newsletter brings you the latest news and information to help you make the most of your charitable giving.
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Social Media is Happening at the Hastings Corps From the days of railroad and telegraph to an era of digital image and electronic communication, the basic mission of The Salvation Army remains, “food for the body, food for the soul.” So too is the new brand statement for the Hastings, Nebraska Corps of The Salvation Army. In recent celebration, the Hastings Corps has been recognized for its 120th year of unbroken service to the poor of Adams County, having served more generations of “Hastingsers” than any other human service entity. It is a record which is both honorable and humbling to those who serve in the community, honored to serve Christ and humbled by His call to service. Majors Abe and Ronda Tamayo, current corps officers, were recently recognized by the Governor’s office on behalf of the Army’s work in south-central, Nebraska during an open house celebrating its historical landmark. With such a rich ancestry at its back, the Hastings Corps is exploring modern means of delivering a time proven message — “Jesus Saves.” In this cutting-edge era of electronic mediums, the Hastings Corps has ventured boldly into the frontier of social media, using current means to communicate a holy message of salvation, holy living and hope for the world…the gospel of Christ. In doing so, the corps has created a webpage at www.tsahastings.com, and a Facebook page at www. facebook.com/tsahastings. The corps webpage has been created and is maintained by a local volunteer, a webmaster at the local TV station, and the Facebook page is maintained by Major Abe Tamayo. The Facebook page is being very well received, with new members “LIKEing” the page daily. Each morning a ‘power stroke’ Bible verse is listed, and also an inspirational, and often funny “Major Abe’s Quote of the Day!” Site membership grows daily with people hitting “LIKE” for daily updates from around the globe, including England, New Zealand, Australia, South Korea, Mexico and across the United States. Members include retired individuals, students, teens, professionals, media personalities and other population demographics.
Major Abe Tamayo, Hastings Corps Officer.
One member wrote, “Finding this site has redirected my life. I have known since being a Sunday school youth what the Bible taught me, but I was caught up in things and lost my way. Waking to your power stroke and quotes, along with the funny postings listed now and then, really inspires me. Thank you for helping me to find my way home again.” “Social media presents to us new opportunities to bridge generations together as grandparents, parents, college and school age youth, each seeking a place to belong and to interact. When they find our site, it is our hope that they will find Jesus and all that His word has to offer them,” said Major Abe. “Soon I will be adding a personal blog of encouragement, addressing social concerns and sharing our brand - “food for the body, food for the soul.” said Major Abe. “LIKE” us at www.facebook.com/tsahastings. You may also follow us on twitter.com/tsa_hastings.
Participants take part in the annual Heartland Walk for Warmth and Run for Fun event.
Heartland Walk for Warmth The annual Heartland Walk for Warmth and Run for Fun raised nearly $10,000 in funds for Omaha area energy assistance programs. More than 300 people participated in the February 23 event held at Midtown Crossing. Energy assistance funds are administered locally by The Salvation Army and the American Red Cross. Organizers were Omaha Public Power District, Black Hills Energy and Metropolitan Utilities District. Media sponsors were KETV and 101.9 The Big O. Many sponsors supported the walk and run including Blue Cross Blue Shield Nebraska, Lozier, Northern Natural Gas, Pinnacle Bank, Roto-Rooter, Tenaska and Downtown Omaha Incorporated. A big thank you to all who helped make this a successful event!
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Pioneers Heartland Chapter Works Together Someone once wrote, “Teamwork allows common people to attain uncommon results.” The Salvation Army is fortunate to have a dedicated team of volunteers … common, everyday kind of people … who come together to attain uncommon results. This year we nominate our organizational volunteer of the year, the Pioneers Heartland Chapter, where members choose to lend their talents and energy to help others who face hardships. They truly believe in the credo of fellowship, loyalty and service by incorporating those qualities into their personal lives as well as into the community. Preparing groceries for families in need.
Backpack Buddies Meal Program In the summer of 2012, it came to the attention of the corps officers in Boone, Iowa that over 50 percent of the children in elementary schools were eligible for free or reduced lunch. A review of the food pantry statistics revealed that visits to the food pantry were up when children were out of school. Captain Robin Rutledge of the Boone, Iowa Corps wrote a grant to fund a program that would send food home with children over the weekend. A bag of groceries is prepared for each child and then put into their backpacks every Friday. This helps families who are food insecure make it through the weekend. The Boone Corps works in cooperation with First Presbyterian Church of Boone to store the food and prepare the backpacks for distribution to the schools. The program began in March and is at capacity.
Our Wish List Durham Booth Manor: • Hog (cut and prepared) • Seasonal decorating items • A volunteer chef for one day a week • DVD’s for media library • Flat screen HD television • (3) Nooks or Kindles • Incontinence products Family & Children Services: • Art and craft materials
Citadel Corps: • Basketballs • Jump ropes • Frisbees • Volleyballs • Hula hoops
Through the years, this group of men and women have contributed thousands of hours to Salvation Army programs and activities. Every Tuesday, the volunteers meet to create handmade felt bears used to comfort children who have experienced emotional trauma. Tens of thousands of ‘Hug-a-Bears’ have been donated to The Salvation Army as well as to area hospitals, police and fire departments and EMT units. Each November, the volunteers join forces with The Salvation Army to prepare and deliver Thanksgiving meals to the homebound. During last year’s Turkey Fest, the group prepared and delivered more than 1,500 meals. These volunteers take on a myriad of clerical duties in support of the annual Adopt-a-Family Radiothon program. They volunteer to sort, staple, alphabetize, fold, label, and stamp — doing whatever needs to be done to ensure that Christmas comes to families in need throughout the Omaha area. They also ring bells every Saturday until Christmas. They are caring, reliable, compassionate people who show unwavering love and respect for others. Through their daily involvement with The Salvation Army, they enable us to fulfill our mission of transforming lives. We proudly nominate the Pioneers Heartland Chapter for the Organizational Volunteer of the Year Service Award.
North Corps: • New 360 X-Box game system • Nintendo Wii games If you are able to contribute to Our Wish List, please contact Madeline Madden at 402-8987700 x137. Major Paula Fleeman, Salvation Army’s City Commander, with volunteers from the Pioneers Heartland Chapter.
Individual Volunteer Award Nominee, Darwin Robinson Volunteer, Darwin Robinson, is motivated by God to provide dedication, passion and integrity for the greater good of The Salvation Army Kroc Center. He is inspirational, spiritual and creative. Darwin started a high school basketball league for individuals who wanted to explore options to stay active and healthy. For the past three years he has served over 300 hours of volunteer service. His perseverance and leadership is a true asset to the overall mission of the Kroc Center. In addition to his outstanding service, he volunteers his time in the community. Darwin volunteers during sports events by working the ticket windows, concessions and promotions, as well as volunteering with local businesses organizing fundraisers for scholarship funds for local children.
Darwin Robinson, an inspiring volunteer leader at the Kroc Center.
His foundation of principles is vital for the development of the young people at the Kroc Center. We proudly nominate Darwin for The Salvation Army’s Individual Volunteer of the Year Service Award!
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Job Training for Teens at the Kroc Why Service Extension Units Are Center Continued from page 6 Important Completion of each job skills training course includes certification; lifeguards and referees receive certification for two years. Food service training participants will receive a certificate of completion. Training and mentoring young adults and giving them a solid foundation of job skills and experience is just one of the ways the Kroc Center is making a difference.
Service Extension Units are volunteer branches of The Salvation Army in communities throughout the division where corps offices are not located. The goal is to provide supportive assistance to people during crisis situations and to identify other community resources which are available to provide additional help. These units provide temporary emergency assistance based on a budget the local volunteers raise through community donations. Additional funds in some communities are raised through the traditional Christmas bell ringing campaign along with direct mail appeals. Listed below are the service extension locations for Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota. For more information regarding a service unit near you, please call 800-699-3439 and ask for service extension.
Scan to Donate to The Salvation Army
NEBRASKA
SERVICE UNIT AINSWORTH ALLIANCE ALMA AUBURN AURORA BLAIR BROKEN BOW BURWELL CENTRAL CITY CHADRON CHAPPELL DAVID CITY FAIRBURY RICHARDSON CO. GOTHENBURG HOLDREGE KIMBALL LAUREL
COUNTY Brown Box Butte Harlan Nemaha Hamilton Washington Custer Garfield Merrick Dawes Deuel Butler Jefferson Richardson Dawson Phelps Kimball Cedar
IOWA SERVICE UNIT ALBIA STORY CO. CASS CO. AUDUBON BELMOND CARROLL CHARITON CHARLES CITY CHEROKEE CLARINDA CLARION GRUNDY CO. COON RAPIDS CRESTON DENISON ELDORA EMMETSBURG FOREST CITY FREMONT CO. HAMPTON HAMILTON CO. SHELBY CO. HAWARDEN HUMBOLDT
COUNTY Monroe Story Cass Audubon Wright Carroll Lucas Floyd Cherokee Page Wright Grundy Carroll Union Crawford Hardin Palo Alto Winnebago Fremont Franklin Hamilton Shelby Sioux Humboldt
SOUTH DAKOTA
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SERVICE UNIT BERESFORD BRITTON BROOKINGS CHAMBERLAIN CLEAR LAKE LAKE ANDES MADISON MILBANK
COUNTY Union Marshall Brookings Brule Deuel Charles Mix Lake Grant
LEXINGTON Dawson MCCOOK Red Willow NEBRASKA CITY Otoe OGALLALA Keith HOLT CO. Holt PAWNEE CITY Pawnee PLATTSMOUTH Cass SAINT PAUL Howard SCHUYLER Colfax SCOTTSBLUFF CO. Scottsbluff SEWARD Seward SIDNEY Cheyenne SYRACUSE Otoe TECUMSEH Johnson VALENTINE Cherry SAUNDERS COUNTY Saunders WAYNE Wayne WEST POINT Cuming YORK York IDA GROVE INDIANOLA JEFFERSON MARION CO. LOGAN MANLEY MANNING MILLS CO. MISSOURI VALLEY MONTEZUMA NORTHWOOD ONAWA ORANGE CITY OSAGE OSKALOSSA PERRY RED OAK ROCKWELL CITY SAC CITY SHENANDOAH SIOUX CENTER SPIRIT LAKE STORM LAKE STUART TOLEDO
Ida Warren Greene Marion Harrison Worth Carroll Mills Harrison Poweshiek Worth Monona Sioux Mitchell Mahaska Dallas Montgomery Calhoun Sac Fremont Sioux Dickinson Buena Vista Guthrie Tama
MOBRIDGE MURDO PIERRE REDFIELD SISSETON VERMILLION WAGNER WINNER YANKTON
Walworth Jones Hughes Spink Roberts Clay Charles Mix Tripp Yankton