I grew up with first-hand knowledge of the Salvation Army after being taken, along with my siblings, by the state and placed in our grandmother’s home. My grandmother was a supporter of The Salvation Army and had to rely upon its services to help clothe and feed us.
One way I decided to give back as I got older was by becoming an advisory council member of The Salvation Army of Cleveland County. I lived out of country for many of my adult years, so when we returned to Oklahoma I decided to get involved in volunteering to pay back the awesome care received as a child. I have been most surprised at the extent of homelessness and need in Cleveland County since becoming a council member.
Throughout my tenure serving on the council, I have enjoyed watching the programs grow, especially the Red Shield Club, working with the officers and staff, and being part of the progress over the last few years. The program The Salvation Army of Cleveland County offers I am most proud of is the Red Shield Club. If we care for the children and teach them to care for and respect others they will in turn provide for a better society as they become adults.
The one word that personifies The Salvation Army to me is LOVE… there is truly no discrimination towards any person in need! I wish that others knew about the commitment of the officers and staff to make Cleveland County a better place to live and raise a family.
Although my awesome siblings and I, nine brothers and two sisters, experienced a troublesome childhood, we all grew into caring, respectful and giving adults due to a Godly grandmother and thanks to the assistance provided by The Salvation Army! Together we are “Doing the Most Good” and I feel blessed to be involved with such a caring and generous organization serving the people in our community.
Betty Goss, Advisory Council Member
The Salvation Army of Cleveland County
To make a gift to support The Salvation Army’s many programs and services, please text HopeOKC to 41444 or go online https://app.mobilecause.com/form/drynoA
