Here at Northside Church and Community Center we endeavour to walk the journey with people to build capacity and sustainability. People come into our space for all sorts of reasons, and it is a privilege to be able to hear their stories and see wonderful transformations in life situations, habits, and attitudes. Allow me to share one such story: –
We have a lady who has been attending the centre for quite a few years. She has found the acceptance of the staff and volunteers an encouragement to her and through these relationships she has grown in confidence. A long-term alcoholic, this lady has been able to decrease her consumption and as such is in a better state to interact with the community. She now helps at our weekly fruit and vegetable markets by serving other community members. This acceptance into the Northside team, receiving a Salvation Army branded T-Shirt to wear as she is helping, has given her a sense of purpose as well as an opportunity to contribute back into the community. In her words “I feel like I really belong.”
Giving a sense of belonging, purpose, and an opportunity to contribute to community is important and one of our focusses with each encounter.
Blessings
Joy Cassidy (Major)
Manager
Northside Church and Community Center
Salvation Army
