The Salvation Army of the Syracuse Area: Doing the Most Good

DOING THE MOST GOOD
What do these words mean, and why is this expression being used across the country? Evangeline Booth was the daughter of William Booth, founder of The Salvation Army. In her book, The War Romance of The Salvation Army, which was published right after World War I, she wrote the following:

“In presenting the narrative of some of the doing of The Salvation Army during the world’s greatest conflict for liberty, I am but answering the insistent call of a most generous and appreciative public.

When moved to activity by the apparent need, there was never a thought that our humble services would awaken the widespread admiration that has developed. In fact, we did not expect anything other than appreciative recognition from those immediately benefited, and the knowledge that our people have proved so useful is an abundant compensation for all toil and sacrifice, for service is our watchword, and there is no reward equal to that of doing the most good to the most people in the most need.”

What she wrote in 1919 remains true to this day as The Salvation Army works in 111 countries.

Today, The Salvation Army lives up to the standard of Doing The Most Good by functioning under the following 5 personality traits.

Passionate: The passion of The Salvation Army stems from its mission. Those involved with the organization believe that meaningful change can take place in a person’s life as a result of the grace of God through Jesus Christ. This belief motivates the organization to work fervently in ministering to people and meeting human needs.

Compassionate: Following the example of Christ, The Salvation Army’s work involves caring for the poor, feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, loving the unlovable and befriending the friendless.

Uplifting: It is important for people to believe that things can be better than they are. The Salvation Army is a place of hope, helping people aspire to a better place in life than where they might find themselves at the moment.

Brave: The Salvation Army goes into places where others are not comfortable: impoverished neighborhoods, jails and prisons, hospital rooms, nursing homes and the immediate scene of natural disasters. While those involved in The Salvation Army may be used to these environments, and while their actions may not seem to them like bravery, people outside the organization have been quick to say, “I could not do what you do.”

Trustworthy: Elaborate systems of checks-and-balances and approvals are built into the organization to guarantee the highest level of stewardship. The Army continues to maximize contributions by using 85-87 cents of every dollar donated in direct services to people in need.

With every Salvation Army officer, soldier, employee and volunteer living up to these 5 traits, we are Doing The Most Good with contributions of time, money and resources.