While many people are aware of The Salvation Army, they may not know how many ways there are to get involved. From combating human trafficking to providing shelter and support for the homeless, The Salvation Army offers diverse pathways for volunteers to make a tangible difference in their communities. So, what are some of the lesser-known ways in which you can lend a hand? 

Emergency Disaster Services (EDS)  

No matter the season, Salvation Army mobile feeding units and disaster workers are always ready to offer help, hope, and healing to disaster survivors and rescue workers. There are two main ways to participate as a volunteer for EDS: a day volunteer or a credentialed volunteer.  Becoming a day volunteer is a great entry-level opportunity to give back by serving locally for a few hours or a couple of days.  

Day volunteers could participate in a variety of ways, from serving on a canteen team on a disaster to assisting with preparedness efforts at a packing event for items like food boxes, clean up kits or hygiene kits.  

For those with more time to give, there are training courses available to become a credentialed volunteer, at which point you will be assigned to a local Salvation Army unit and may be contacted to serve locally and/or across the country. 

Whether day or credentialed volunteering is right for you, Stacy Dertien, Western Territorial Director of EDS Volunteers and Training, says that one of the best ways to serve your community is to “plan ahead and become enrolled as a disaster services volunteer during blue-sky times. This allows you to participate in trainings, drills and activities, so you are well-equipped when called on to respond.” Blue-sky times are non-disaster periods.  

Food & Shelter Program 

Volunteering with a Salvation Army homeless shelter offers a profound opportunity to directly impact the lives of those facing homelessness and adversity in your community. These shelters provide not only necessities like food, but also support services to help people regain stability and independence. To get involved, reach out to your local Salvation Army branch or visit their website.  

Volunteers at shelters may engage in a range of tasks, including preparing and serving meals, organizing donations of clothing and toiletries, or assisting with shelter maintenance and cleaning. Volunteers may also help with administrative tasks such as answering phones, managing intake procedures or coordinating schedules.  

After School Music 

Volunteering with the Salvation Army’s after school music program is a wonderful opportunity to inspire and support young musicians in your community. To start, reach out to your local Salvation Army branch—they may ask about your musical background, availability and any special skills you can contribute, such as playing an instrument or assisting with music theory.  

Once accepted, you might help with tutoring, leading practice sessions, organizing performances or providing logistical support during rehearsals and events. By volunteering your time and passion for music, you’ll play a crucial role in fostering creativity, confidence and a love for music among children who may not otherwise have access to such enriching experiences.

Teaching English as a Second Language  

Volunteering to teach English as a Second Language (ESL) with The Salvation Army is a way to support your community and help individuals improve their language skills. To get started, visit your local Salvation Army branch or their website to inquire about volunteer opportunities in ESL teaching. Typically, you’ll need to fill out an application and possibly undergo a background check and orientation session. The Salvation Army provides training and resources to prepare volunteers for teaching ESL, including lesson planning and cultural sensitivity.  

Once accepted, you’ll have the opportunity to create engaging lessons tailored to the needs of adult learners or children, fostering a supportive environment where students can enhance their English proficiency and confidence. Volunteering with the Salvation Army in ESL teaching not only benefits your students but also allows you to make a meaningful difference in your community through education and support. 

Ultimately, volunteer work is a testament to the power of collective action and compassion. By donating your time and energy, you can strengthen your community and give back. And in return, you can “receive valuable leadership opportunities, learn life skills, and participate in real-world experiences that [you] may not readily find elsewhere,” says Stacy. “Younger generations have the opportunity to make an impact on the world around them through volunteerism.”  

How do you get involved? Find what you love to do. What do you love to do? What are you good at? Do you have any hobbies, like arts and crafts, musical instruments, or video games? You can contact your local Salvation Army in your area for any need they have. Visit salvationarmyusa.org/usn/volunteer/ to discover volunteer opportunities in your area and your local Salvation Army to contact.