The Salvation Army Makes One Family's Tough Times a Little Easier

The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and more than 120 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, providing shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction. When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community. To donate or learn more, please visit http://www.SalvationArmy.ca

Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays from our family to yours!

New Music School in Brazil | Playing For Change

The PFC Foundation is launching its first music program in South America in Curitiba, Brazil, thanks to the amazing work of a community that decided to take action through the power of music. Having hosted a record-breaking PFC Day 2014 extravaganza boasting over 100 performances throughout the city, as well as a sold-out PFC Band concert for over 1,400, the Curitiba team inspires all of us and has ignited the PFC passion among the people in Brazil.
Check out this new video and discover how this all came together. Take a tour of the community of Cajuru where the new program will be located. Join the amazing Curitiba team and other passionate visionaries like them to provide music education for children in need around the world.

Salvation Army Today - 12.18.2014 - General Cox Meets Pope Francis; Women's Retreat; I Am Boundless

History was made with the first private audience in the Vatican with Pope Francis and the General of the Salvation Army.

Commissioner Nancy Roberts, World Secretary for Women's Ministries, was the special guest at the Mexico Territory's spiritual retreat for women officers.

Salvationists from around the world share their excitement about the upcoming congress in a new video, "I Am Boundless."

Thank You For Believing | Playing For Change Foundation

Today we are privileged to share a video from the teachers and children of the PFC Foundation music program in Khlong Toey, a community in Bangkok, Thailand, where 100,000 people live in a 2-square-mile radius and face many challenges every day. Music is bringing joy and hope to the children who participate in the program, to the teachers, and to supporters from around the world. This moving story reflects the mutual love and inspiration that is possible when we come together to help one another achieve our dreams. We share it with you and encourage you to support our music programs worldwide as we build the dream together through music.

Gratitude has been linked to increased levels of happiness and life satisfaction. Giving thanks is one of the most powerful ways there is to increase your well-being. It can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.

Khlong Toey Music program founders Aom Amm and Gigi have created a very special program that meets the needs of young children at risk in a notoriously dangerous district in Bangkok, Thailand. In this video production Gigi expresses her heartfelt emotion as she reads a letter of gratitude from PFCF contributor and compassionate heart Judi. You will also meet KTMP Music student Lui. She has discovered a most profound passion for music through our program. She now believes life offers viable alternatives to her often-violent world. This is moving work. And this is what we do.

We hope THANK YOU FOR BELIEVING opens a door to the beauty that is emerging from PFC’s collective spirit to change the world through music. We also acknowledge Aom Amm, Gigi, Lui and all the teachers for representing us in a way that truly makes us proud. And of course a very special thanks goes out to Mark, Whitney, and the entire PFC and PFCF crew for their tireless efforts to benefit these precious children in anyway possible. It’s been said, “When there is darkness, dare to be the first to shine a light.”

SANTA’S CHRISTMAS STORE FOR CHILDREN

The Yippie Yogurt® Youth Job Training Shop is hosting its second annual “Santa’s Christmas Store for Children” on Saturday December 13 from 1:00 - 4:00 PM at Yippie Yogurt, 1955 West Texas Street, #4, Fairfield.  All children ages 12 and under are invited to buy a new or gently used Christmas gift for those on their shopping list.  Items will be available for purchase at $1-3 each item.  Yippie Youth will help children select and wrap their gifts and make a Christmas card. No yogurt purchase is necessary.

Donations of new or gently used cosmetic jewelry and smaller household items, wrapping paper, tape, ribbon, gift boxes and art supplies are needed.  Please drop off donations at the Yippie Yogurt shop between 1 PM and 7 PM any day.  Yippie Yogurt is located next door to Nation’s Burgers in the Winery Square Shopping Center at 1955 West Texas Street, #4 in Fairfield; or contact Sherilyn Henry for pickup at Sherilyn.Henry@YippieYogurt.org or 707-208-0853.

Rock The Red Kettle

The fifth annual Rock the Red Kettle concert hosted by The Salvation Army. Watch some of music’s rising stars including headliners Shawn Mendes, Becky G, R5, and Bea Miller live as they perform at LA Live.

Salvation Army Today - 12.4.2014 - Stores to Support; Ferguson; TODAY

For over one hundred years, The Salvation Army red kettle has been an important symbol of Christmas giving. Stores across the country have said yes once again to support the Army through hosting a red kettle outside their doors.

Many have been praying for the difficult situation in Ferguson, Missouri. The Salvation Army has been heavily involved in responding to what is described as a very volatile situation.

Salvation Army Today - 12.2.2014 - 124th Red Kettle Campaign; Kenya West Commissioning

The Dallas Cowboys helped kick off the National Red Kettle Campaign at the Thanksgiving day Cowboys game.

The Salvation Army Kenya West celebrated the commissioning of 50 cadets becoming Salvation Army officers.

Salvation Army Program Responds to Housing Needs

Imagine sleeping outside in sub-zero temperatures or moving from one temporary shelter to another. The Salvation Army Housing Response Team strives to help vulnerable people find, keep and live in affordable and permanent housing.

Salvation Army Today - 11.20.2014 - Center of Hope; Movember

November 6 was not an ordinary day at Central Oklahoma Area Command.

Commissioner Debi Bell has a special message to share this month involving Movember.

Salvation Army Today - November 18, 2014 - Aspire Youth Program; Angel Tree Anniversary

The Warehouse Group selected The Salvation Army’s Aspire – Kiwi Youth Development Program in New Zealand as the recipient for the funds raised at their 23rd Annual Supplier Awards.

A celebration has been held in Lynchburg, Virginia to commemorate the first Salvation Army Angel Tree some 35 years ago.

Angel Tree Program Works Christmas Magic - Short

Angel Tree Program Works Christmas Magic - Short

Salvation Army Today - 11.11.2014 - The Stand-Down; Family Integration Center; Andrew Young

The Salvation Army of San Antonio, TX participated in the 2014 Veterans Day Stand-Down at the American G.I. Forum. Staff spent the day serving food to those who have bravely served us.

The Salvation Army serves many different communities in Brazil. The Family Integration Center is a program in Prudente de Moraes that offers youth recreational, cultural, and sporting activities as forms of expression, interaction, and sociability.

Ambassador Andrew Young was the special guest for the Doing the Most Good Lunch in Atlanta, GA last week.

Planting Seeds

Please visit http://www.myleaven.org Produced by http://www.lifecairn.com

Angel Tree Program Works Christmas Magic | Salvation Army

Learn how The Salvation Army Angel Tree program and its donors help millions of parents and children in need celebrate Christmas.

Sandy Anniversary; Refurbished Bicycles; Cardiff Bus Project

The Salvation Army continues to serve and support Hurricane Sandy survivors on their road to full recovery.

The Village Bicycle Cooperative delivers refurbished bicycles to the West Park Salvation Army.

First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, praises Cardiff Bus Project at anniversary event.

A Difference For My Future

Please visit http://www.myleaven.org Produced by http://www.lifecairn.com

Salvation Army Today - October 28, 2014 - Expanding Homeless Housing; Julius Randle Visits Inglewood

The Salvation Army of Athens, GA is expanding its homeless housing.

Julius Randle with the Los Angeles Lakers visits the The Salvation Army Inglewood Corps Community Center.

The Power Of Giving - You Get Back More Than You Could Imagine

The power of giving is an amazing, amazing thing. From ancient times it has been said that if you give you will get a multiplied return and that is true. The thing that many people do not realize is that you may not get like for like. (That gets a whole new meaning with social media, but those aren't really the "likes" we are referring to.)

Many times the intentions and the demeanor we present is noticed by people around us. Even if your offering is not taken, that doesn't mean that it is not appreciated and won't be paid back. It will be. Sometimes the rewards are obvious; other times they are not. Sometimes they come back to us rather quickly; other times it may be years or decades later that an action comes back to us. This works in the negative as well as the positive so keep that in mind as well.

This is even discussed in the recent movement involving the so called "Law of Attraction." This law exists and is not heavily debated, but the meaning that people assign to it is as varied as society is. The truth to the law of attraction is that we embrace the things that we value and those things become more available as we bring them closer to us. That is as simple as it can be stated.

This is like saying if you enjoy eating apples and you eat them on a regular basis and bury the cores as you are done with them, as the years go by you will end up surrounded by an orchard. There is nothing magical about that. There is no mysticism involved. It is just the laws of nature and the biology. Of course the soil has to be accepting and nourishing of the fruit, so that is a lesson as well.

Do you have the nourishment for the gifts that are to come into your life? I will give a personal example. For years I have been providing quality content and instruction on how I understood various online resources to work. I know a great deal about the basics of blogging and posting online videos and such. So without charge or even thought to charging anyone for the information I have provided (and continue to provide) instruction through blog posts and screen capture tutorials.

That is the giving phase. A few days ago someone came into my life and made an offer to teach me about marketing and sales online. This is a piece of the puzzle that I have not found although I have, at times, looked for it, and even paid people to try to explain it to me in terms I could understand. Their pieces didn't fit for me. But suddenly out of a mutual relationship an offer came in from a very well-known ethical marketer. He offered me free mentoring with no strings attached. Could this be the return on my years of giving freely? Of course it is.

Do not think that the power of giving is not in your life. The things that perhaps you may not notice or think much about may be the very clues that it is working. You give and you receive. The abundance of wealth of all sorts is around us and flowing in and out of our lives. Give and accept freely and your life will be enriched in many ways.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6583148

Melissa Fleming: Let’s help refugees thrive, not just survive

50 million people in the world today have been forcefully displaced from their home — a level not seen since WWII. Right now, more than 3 million Syrian refugees are seeking shelter in neighboring countries. In Lebanon, half of these refugees are children; only 20% are in school. Melissa Fleming of the UN's refugee agency calls on all of us to make sure that refugee camps are healing places where people can develop the skills they’ll need to rebuild their hometowns.

Salvation Army Today - 10.16.2014 - Boundless Beginner's Guide; Rally Day; Homeless Services

The Salvation Army International Headquarters releases a Beginner's Guide to the Boundless 2015 congress.

The Salvation Army of Orlando, FL hosts its annual Rally Day Weekend.

Homeless Connect Day in Pasadena, California helps decrease homelessness.

Salvation Army Today - 10.14.2014 - Fitness, Family, and Faith; A Meeting of Hearts and Minds

Elana Anthony has found the perfect blend of fitness, family, and faith. The bright shining walls and friendly people of the Kroc Center in Chicago, IL immediately drew her in eventually securing a job in the fitness department.

Salvation Army Today - 10.09.2014 - New Amsterdam Residential Facility

Princess Beatrix of The Netherlands opened a new Salvation Army residential facility in Amsterdam.

Salvation Army Today - 10.07.14 - Bethany Hope Center Changes Lives

The Salvation Army's Bethany Hope Center in Ottawa, CA is equipping singles parents with business skills!

The latest Kroc Center has officially opened in Camden, NJ!

Back To Your Roots | Live in Australia | Playing For Change Band

Today’s featured video shows the PFC Band Live in Australia from our 2013 tour supporting Robert Plant. “Back To Your Roots” is a PFC original song and it features lead vocals from Titi Tsira, Mermans Mosengo and Jason Tamba and a ferocious guitar solo from Louis Mhlanga!!

Turn up the video and get ready because The PFC band is hitting the road for a tour in Brazil this October!! Check out the links to our tour dates and help us spread the word so everyone can join in the “Peace Through Music World Tour”!!!
http://playingforchange.com/live/

Salvation Army Donor Helps Make a Difference

Find out how one donor is empowering high-risk parents and their children.

The Leaven Mission

Please visit http://www.myleaven.org Produced by http://www.lifecairn.com

Salvation Army Today - 09.23.2014 - National Preparedness Month; From Tent to Shelter

The Salvation Army responds to natural and man-made disasters year round. This month is National Preparedness Month in the United States.

http://www.ready.gov/

From Tent to Shelter
The Salvation Army of Greenville, SC has stepped in to bring homeless who were once living in a tent city into their shelters. Major Kent Davis speaks with Fox Carolina.

Salvation Army Today - 9.18.2014 - Boys & Girls Clubs Lasting Impact; #150 Reasons

The Boys & Girls Clubs provide a lasting impact for youth and families across the nation. The #150Reasons campaign launches ahead of The Salvation Army's 150th Anniversary to spotlight reasons why the Army exists.

Salvation Army Today - 9.16.2014 - Drive-Through Social Services; From Client to Volunteer

The Salvation Army of Onslow County, North Carolina offers a new program. On the third Thursday of every month, they receive a large delivery from the local food bank with food and basic commodities.

Salvation Army Today - 09.11.2014 - Ebola Outbreak in Liberia; Camp Keystone, Florida

The Salvation Army of Liberia has joined the fight against the deadly Ebola virus. Through several initiatives, forty volunteer workers have been recruited to help the Army’s mobile medical clinic team across the country.

The Salvation Army’s Camp Keystone in Florida caught fire in the middle of the night. Captain Marion Platt tells us more.

Salvation Army Today - 9.09.14 - The Most Good Festival; "Something Better" by General Clifton

The Most Good Festival; "Something Better" by General Clifton

Salvation Army Today - 09.04.14 - Boundless 8; White House Visit

Eight international volunteers joined the Boundless Congress team to assist the congress coordinators in various ways.
President Barack Obama welcomed the Army's USA national leaders to the White House and focus on variety of topics including the Pathway of Hope, inter-generational poverty, Adult Rehabilitation Centers, and Kroc Centers.

Salvation Army Today - 09.02.14 - The War Cry: Ever Constant, Ever New

The Salvation Army's War Cry in the USA is one of few publications in circulation since 1881. Today, The War Cry continues to carry stories, articles and features that foster hope and renewal for individuals, families, and communities.

Salvation Army Today - 08.28.14 - Trash to Treasure; Open House London 2014

Trash to Treasure; Open House London 2014

Salvation Army Today - 08.26.14 - Responding to a 6.0 Earthquake;Back-to-School Rally

Responding to a 6.0 Earthquake; Back-to-School Rally

Salvation Army Today - August 21, 2014 - After-School Programs

The Salvation Army of St. Paul, MN offers after-school programs for thousands of unprivileged children.

The European Youth Event 2014 ended this past Sunday with 600 young people, along with General Andre and Commissioner Silva Cox were in attendance.

The Salvation Army Helps Former Addict Heal

Former drug and alcohol addict, Babe, is using The Salvation Army's Anchorage program in Ottawa to heal so that he can help others who are still struggling with their addictions.

The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and more than 120 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, providing shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction. When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.

The Leaven Mission

Please visit http://www.myleaven.org Produced by http://www.lifecairn.com

Salvation Army Today - 8.14.14 - Remembering the "Big Four"

Salvation Army Today remembers the "Big Four" hurricanes -- Ivan, Jeanne, Charley, and Frances -- that struck Florida and Alabama within just weeks of each other in 2004

Salvation Army Sports Camps Inspire Team Building

Salvation Army Sports Camps teach kids what it means to be part of a team, participate in sports, make new friends, learn new skills and have fun in a healthy, safe and caring Christian environment.

The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and more than 120 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, providing shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction. When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.

Salvation Army Today - 08.07.14 - Back-to-School in Springfield, MO; New Type of Church in the UK

The Salvation Army of Springfield, Missouri helps families in need with school supplies. A new type of church setting in Stoke Newington, UK.

Did you know? The Salvation Army's first brass band formed 'by accident."

In the early days, Salvation Army street preachers suffered taunts and the occasional flying tomato, so Charles Frye and his sons offered themselves as security. They brought their instruments along to get in some practice and the first of The Salvation Army's legendary brass bands was formed!

Salvation Army Today - 7.31.14 - Territorial Music Institute

Salvation Army Today catches up with the special guests of the USA Southern Territorial Music Institute!

Smell The Rain by Genevieve Chadwick | Live Outside | Playing For Change

Today’s video, “Smell the Rain”, was recorded and filmed live on the streets of Sydney, Australia and features our soul sister, Genevieve Chadwick. We are proud to announce the release of Genevieve’s solo album, produced by Playing For Change and recorded in Sydney with PFC Band members Roberto Luti, Orbe Ortiz, and Peter Bunetta. The album is exclusively available on our website, both the CD and Digital Download, ! Feel the love in this moment and share the joy with everyone you meet!!

Salvation Army Today Summer Camp, International Conference Of Leaders

Charlotte Johnson from south east of England, shares her story of working at Camp Happyland, VA.

International Conference of Leaders converged on Singapore Corps this Sunday for its welcome meeting.

SalvationArmy.org

SalvationArmyUSA.org

disaster.salvationarmyusa.org/

HELP! - Mission Solano Food Supply is Dangerously Low

Our commitment is to provide food and care for the homeless and hungry on Solano County.  At this moment Mission Solano NEEDS your help to accomplish this goal.  During the summer months we hit the "Summer Slump"  as much of our funding and donations tend to get fewer and further in between.  However, those that we serve do not stop needing our services.  Our hard working volunteers and staff continue to serve and care for the most vulnerable in our county in spite of the "slump".

This summer is particularly challenging and we are asking our great supporters to consider helping supply $50 in canned goods this July.  When your family goes shopping this month would you prayerfully consider purchasing a little more and bringing a bag of canned goods to the Mission Solano Community Outreach Center (740 Travis Blvd)?  

Maybe you can provide a bit more.   Would you consider donating funds at MissionSolano.org?

Or is this the year you, your church, your business or even you family decides to supply a meal for the nearly 60 hungry homeless that fill our building every night?  Contact Nick Fisher at nick@missionsolano.org for more information on hosting a meal at our Community Outreach Center. 

Thank You

Salvation Army Today - 07.17.2014 - Airport Feeds the Hungry, International Conference

At the World's Busiest Airport in Atlanta, GA, much of the food prepared for the airport has to be sold in 24 hours or the food is placed in donation bins for the Salvation Army.

Salvations and friends are invited to share in worship and celebration with the Salvation Army leaders for a meeting being held in Singapore.

Salvation Army Today - 7.15.14 - Mrs. Virginia Talks Disaster;

Salvation Army Today - 7.15.14 - Mrs. Virginia Talks Disaster; Australia's One Bag Campaign

Collinsville starts long, hard road to rebuilding

BIRDS LANDING — Hawk Baldetta and his mother Ruth Baldetta both would like to rebuild their home, which was one of eight destroyed in Collinsville on the Fourth of July.

“We really want to rebuild. I wanted to raise my children there,” said Hawk Baldetta after a Tuesday night town hall meeting in Birds Landing, where Solano County Office of Emergency Services and nonprofits such as The Salvation Army and the American Red Cross laid out what they could do to help Collinsville residents rebuild.

Three homes were damaged in the four-alarm fire, in addition to the homes that were destroyed. The fire displaced 25 people.

The big concern voiced Tuesday by several people at the fire hall where the meeting took place was what breaks the now-homeless residents would receive in the permitting processes and costs to resurrect their homes.

Half of the houses that burned were uninsured and many were built many years before present county, state and federal construction standards were put into place.

“We will stretch as much as possible,” Solano County Building Official David Cliche said of working with residents to meet county code requirements, but that can’t be the case with federal codes that any reconstruction will have to meet.

Hawk Baldetta figured he possibly could squeeze out enough to put in a modular home “and we are going to work toward that,” but added, “honestly, we don’t know where we are going to land.”

Neighbors and community organizations have spent the days since the fire turning out to help where they can.

Willie Rosewall, wife of the Montezuma Fire Protection District fire chief, said she and others have spent the past few days sorting though tables filled with clothing donated to replace what Collinsville residents have lost.

“The people here have been so helpful,” Ruth Baldetta said. “You don’t realize how many nice people there are.”

Groups such as the Saxon Creed Motorcycle Club have turned out to deliver a considerable number of cases of bottled water and boxes of food as well as organize fundraisers such as the Collinsville Fire Relief Taco Feed, which will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday at 401 Montezuma St. in Rio Vista.

“This is our community and these are our neighbors,” Saxon Creed member Robert Anderson said of why he was pitching in.

Donations of food and water for fire victims can still be dropped off at local Salvation Army locations at 586 E. Wigeon Way, Suisun City; 1220 Missouri St., Fairfield; 630 Orange Drive, Vacaville; and 630 Tuolumne St., Vallejo. Organizers are specifically requesting grocery store gift cards.

Representatives of the umbrella agency for local nonprofits, the Solano Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, recommended that community members make monetary donations specifically identified for Collinsville relief to be made to the American Red Cross, 1545 N. Texas St., Suite 101, Fairfield, or to The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 1644, Suisun City, CA 94585. Online donations are welcome at www.redcross.org and www.SolanoArmyofHope.org.

There were only about 20 homes in Collinsville, so the blaze practically wiped out half of the town along the Sacramento River that carries a tradition of fishing and the fame of Joe DiMaggio’s one-time residence.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, according to Montezuma Fire Protection District Chief Joe Rosewall.

Reach Ian Thompson at 427-6976 or ithompson@dailyrepublic.net. Follow him on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ithompsondr.

SHINE Reggie's Story

Reggie lived his life trying to find any way possible to numb the pain of growing up in an abusive childhood. Drugs and alcohol led him to give up his wife and child, ultimately ending up serving three prison terms. He now says, "Mission SOLANO has helped me in ways I could not have done on my own. I have been given the opportunity to be the man that I always knew I was."

Salvation Army Today - 07.03.2014 - Princess Ball; Year of Non-Stop Prayer; New Car for Mom of Seven

The Salvation Army Block of Hope in downtown Indianapolis held the inaugural Princess Ball for the Ruth Lilly Women & Children's Center.

In preparation for the 2015 International Congress, General Cox has called The Salvation Army to one year of non-stop prayer.

Shahonna Hardwick, a formerly-homeless mother of seven, receives a brand new car courtesy of Serpentini Chevrolet and a generous Salvation Army Officer.

NFL player gets first-hand look at Mission Solano’s work

FAIRFIELD — Edward Campbell was apologetic when James-Michael Johnson stepped into Campbell’s bedroom at the Mission Solano Bridge to Life Center.

“Don’t mind the (Pittsburgh) Steelers stuff,” Campbell said. “I’m a Steelers fan.”

Johnson, a 2007 Rodriguez High School graduate and linebacker for the Kansas City Chiefs, graciously accepted Campbell’s confession.

“I’m really a football fan,” Campbell went on to explain.

“I am, too,” Johnson assured him.

Johnson autographed the T-shirt Campbell was wearing. But Campbell wasn’t changing his NFL loyalty. A Steelers fan he would remain, he said.

Ron Marlette, executive director of Mission Solano, and Raymond Courtemanche, operations director, escorted Johnson and his father around the facility Monday morning. Marlette and the younger Johnson would pair up later in a golf tournament benefitting Mission Solano.

Last Thanksgiving, a fair amount of poultry was pilfered from Mission Solano. When the younger Johnson heard about the missing birds, he took to Twitter with a pledge to help replace them.

His Twitter followers followed suit and donations began pouring in from across the country, Marlette said. The purloined poultry was replaced.

“We got double the number of turkeys,” Marlette said.

Johnson said he couldn’t let the opportunity to help pass by. Thanksgiving is his favorite holiday and he knew he would be gathered, with plenty of food and family, in Kansas City to celebrate the day.

He was pleased so many people stepped forward to help, Johnson said. The impact of his Tweet didn’t hit home until he saw it on the news in Kansas City, he added.

On Monday, Johnson got to see firsthand the work Mission Solano does. He was impressed and particularly touched by staff member Linda Wells, who willingly shared her story.

“I was an addict for 30 years,” Wells told Johnson. “I was in prison for 12 years. When I got out, the first night I slept in a car because I didn’t have anyplace to go.”

Someone told her about Mission Solano. That was three years ago.

Wells has reunited with her family and should be off parole in the next month.

“She went through a lot,” Johnson said. “It’s good to see her come back from 12 years in prison.”

Johnson got the biggest welcome in the veteran’s building, where he was asked for autographs and shook hands.

Marlette could barely finish Johnson’s name when the men began to crowd around Johnson and pose for pictures with him.

“These guys were waiting for him,” Marlette said. “When I dropped his name, everything kind of dropped after that.”

He met a 2-month-old baby in the women and children’s building. Johnson also got to visit a family unit and the kitchen.

Johnson offered praise for the work being done at Mission Solano.

“It’s a good foundation here for people to turn their lives around,” he said.

“We’ve worked hard to get it where it’s at,” Courtemanche told him.

A young boy staying at the center followed Johnson most of the tour. The two threw a few passes to each other, using the football Johnson had autographed.

The professional football player ended his Mission Solano visit by autographing almost 20 color photos for the youths who use the organizations services.

Reach Amy Maginnis-Honey at 427-6957 or amaginnis@dailyrepublic.net. Follow her on Twitter at www.twitter.com/amaginnisdr.

Source: http://www.dailyrepublic.com/news/fairfield/nfl-player-gets-first-hand-look-at-mission-solanos-work/

PFC Band Plays FREE Shows at Levitt Pavilion Sites

Don't miss the PFC Band's FREE performances at Levitt Pavilion sites in Pasadena (6/27), Los Angeles (6/28), and Denver (7/2), presented by the Levitt National Tour! See more info for these three shows below in addition to info for our other shows during the tour, and come join us in celebrating peace through music!

Denver Levitt Pavilion Site

Wednesday, July 2nd

5:00 PM: Drum Circle

7:00 PM: Music begins

8:30 PM: Artist Q&A

RSVP and invite others here:

https://www.facebook.com/events/697054197004944/

Salvation Army Today - 06.26.2014 - Music Improving Academics; "Mind the Gap"

The Salvation Army of Chicago is committed to making a difference through the lives of children through music.

General André Cox has set the "Mind the Gap" challenge, which Salvationists and friends can raise funds to send people from developing world to The Salvation Army's 150th anniversary celebration in London next year!

sar.my/givemtg

Salvation Army Today - 06.24.2014 - Cuba Commissioning 2014

The Salvation Army in Havana, Cuba made history as 5 new Lieutenants were commissioned as Salvation Army Officers.

September 28th has been set aside as this year's International Day of Prayer for victims of Human Trafficking.
www.salvationarmy.org/ihq/antitraffickin­g

Salvation Army Today - 06.19.2014 - Tulsa's "Most Amazing Race"

The "Most Amazing Race" was held in Tulsa, Oklahoma to help raise money for the homeless in Tulsa.

The Salvation Army Western Division mobilized their Emergency Disaster Team after deadly twin tornadoes wreck havoc on several farming communities in Nebraska.

Our New Album PFC3 Songs Around The World Was Released Yesterday!!!

http://playingforchange.com/marketplace-offer/playing-for-change-3-songs-around-the-world-cddvd/

Also Available At Starbucks!

LEGO® Star Wars™: Happy Father's Day!

Happy Father's Day, No Matter Where You Are In The Galaxy!!

Salvation Army Today - 06.12.2014 - 2014 FIFA World Cup; Year Later Family Store Fire

Salvation Army Today - 06.12.2014 - 2014 FIFA World Cup; Year Later Family Store Fire

Salvation Army Today - General Cox Visits USA and Man finds...

General André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox visited Atlanta, Georgia, USA and a Salvation Army Volunteer finds $125,000, find out what he did.

TEDxYouth@BIS - Rosemary Kalapurakal - The transformative nature of volunteerism

Rosemary Kalapurakal was appointed Deputy Executive Coordinator of the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme in August 2013. Prior to joining UNV she served as Chief of the Policy and Operations Support Unit of the Regional Bureau for Europe and CIS / United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in New York (February 2011 -- August 2013). Volunteerism is a powerful means of engaging people in tackling development challenges, and it can transform the pace and nature of development. Volunteerism benefits both society at large and the individual volunteer by strengthening trust, solidarity and reciprocity among citizens, and by purposefully creating opportunities for participation. UNV contributes to peace and development by advocating for recognition of volunteers, working with partners to integrate volunteerism into development programming, and mobilizing an increasing number and diversity of volunteers, including experienced UN Volunteers, throughout the world. UNV embraces volunteerism as universal and inclusive, and recognizes volunteerism in its diversity as well as the values that sustain it: free will, commitment, engagement and solidarity.

The Practical Approach towards a Better World: Sazzad Hossain at TEDxYou...

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

Salvation Army Today - Live Below the Line 2014; Freedom Center

The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland territory is campaigning a fundraiser to make a huge difference in the fight against extreme poverty.

The Salvation Army of Chicago, Illinois is breaking ground on the Freedom Center.

Become A YIPPIE Mentor. Our Kids Need Your Leadership!

Yippie Foundation is always interested in volunteers to become mentors for the youth in our program. It's just a little time out of your busy life that will mean so much to our young men and women to help guide them toward a better life.

See more here: http://yippiefoundation.org/volunteer/mentorship.html

Rethinking charities: Eliska Vojakova at TEDxYouth@BSB

Eliska's talk raises the concern of how efficient charities actually are, and more importantly how we can make them better.

Remembering 2013 Oklahoma Tornadoes: Answering the Call

After a deadly string of tornadoes devastated Central Oklahoma in May 2013- The Salvation Army immediately responded and worked with volunteers from companies like Chesapeake Energy & Continental Resources

The Volunteer Spirit: Anastasia Dudley at TEDxYouth@Houston

Anastasia Dudley, a courageous high school student describes her voyage to South Africa and discovers the meaning of a true international volunteer. The volunteer spirit is an ultimate challenge each person must face when deciding to do so.

How Our Personal Hardships Can Foster Compassion

The world needs compassion, and for true compassion to be possible, we first need to come to terms with our own suffering so that we can better understand the suffering of others.

The Armchair Activist: How to Save the Ocean Without Getting Wet: Emily ...

It's no surprise to anyone that the ocean, and the planet, is in trouble -- and that things aren't getting any better. But could saving the ocean really be as simple as talking about what you like about it? Biologist Emily King seems to think so and she's here to convince you too.

Salvation Army Today Kenya Watershed Project, Australian Red Sh...

The Salvation Army helps provide clean water to Kenyan communities.

The Salvation Army in Melbourne, Australia launches Red Shield Appeal.

Salvation Army Today 5.06.14 - "Most Good" 5K, One Army Resource, The Big Payback

Salvation Army of Dallas-Forth Worth held first annual "Most Good" 5K.

A multi-format teaching resource produced by International Headquarters to understanding what it means to be part of One Army.

The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee is hosting the Big Payback starting today.

MorethanaKettle.org

This Friday May 9th, Sunset In The Gardens

The Yippie Foundation is pleased to announce that the 2014 “Sunset in the Gardens” fundraiser will be Friday, May 9^th  from 5:30 -8:00 pm in the beautiful Buck Mansion gardens in Vacaville.  Chef Daniel will be providing heavy appetizers.  Participants will have the opportunity to meet many of the Yippie students who are enrolled in the eleven-month Yippie Yogurt Youth Job Training Program.  A silent auction and raffle will help support the Yippie programs.

Tickets are $30 each or 2 for $50 and can be bought at the Yippie Yogurt Shop, Gillespie Abbey Carpets, online at Eventbrite at http://www.eventbrite.com/e/sunset-in-the-gardens-tickets-10609674823 or at www.YippieFoundation.org 

Yippie stands for ‘Youth Initiating Professional Preparedness in Employment.’  The Yippie Foundation is a local Solano County 501 (c) 3 nonprofit whose mission is to provide students with workforce development with marketable job readiness skills, food handler’s license, CPR and first aid certificates, mentoring, paid work experience at the Yippie Yogurt Shop, job placement and confidence.  Yippie graduates have a competitive edge in the entry-level career job market.  For more information, visitwww.YippieFoundation.org or call 707-208-0853.

Playing For Change 3, Songs Around the World, Reggae got Soul Trailer'

PLAYING FOR CHANGE Announces the Release of its Third CD/DVD Set, Playing For Change 3: "Songs Around the World"Available June 17th, 2014

It all started in 2012 with Keith Richards, Aztec Indians and Roots musicians across the Caribbean and evolved into a musical journey including over 185 musicians from 31 countries. A global celebration!

Playing For Change 3 "Songs Around The World" available June 17th, 2014. The CD/DVD will be available both digitally and physically at all major retailers and via Starbucks in North America, and includes performances from Keith Richards, Sara Bareilles, Andres Calamaro, Toots Hibbert from Toots & The Maytals, Cesar Rosas and David Hidalgo of Los Lobos, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Keb Mo, and Taj Mahal in addition to a song produced by Jackson Browne

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

http://www.playingforchange.com

https://twitter.com/playing4change

http://instagram.com/playing4change

Elizabeth Gilbert: Success, failure and the drive to keep creating

Elizabeth Gilbert was once an "unpublished diner waitress," devastated by rejection letters. And yet, in the wake of the success of 'Eat, Pray, Love,' she found herself identifying strongly with her former self. With beautiful insight, Gilbert reflects on why success can be as disorienting as failure and offers a simple -- though hard -- way to carry on, regardless of outcomes.

Summer Success at The Leaven

Please visit http://myleaven.com Produced by http://www.lifecairn.com

The Leaven Vision 2014

Please visit http://www.myleaven.org Produced by http://www.lifecairn.com

Salvation Army Today 4.17.14 - Motel to Homeless Shelter; Two Men and a ...

The Salvation Army of Longview, Washington converted a rundown motel into a shelter for the homeless. A international moving company, Two Men and a Truck, is supporting Mothers with domestic abuse. The Salvation Army of Syracuse, New York hosting its 5th annual basketball tournament for men, women, and youth.

Salvation Army Today 4.15.14 - Chicago Kroc - MercyMe; Journey to Africa

MercyMe visits the Kroc Center in Chicago, Illinois for a basketball game. SAVN.tv set out on a Journey in Africa to tell story of God's hope and promise for his people.

The Leaven Golf Classic 2014

Please visit http://myleaven.org Produced by http://www.lifecairn.com

Farm To Families - Juanita

Please visit http://www.myleaven.org Produced by http://www.lifecairn.com

Easter at Kroc Worship

Preview of events at Kroc Worship Easter weekend

Bill and Melinda Gates: Why giving away our wealth has been the most satisfying thing we've done...

In 1993, Bill and Melinda Gates—then engaged—took a walk on a beach in Zanzibar, and made a bold decision on how they would make sure that their wealth from Microsoft went back into society. In a conversation with Chris Anderson, the couple talks about their work at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, as well as about their marriage, their children, their failures and the satisfaction of giving most of their wealth away.

Sponsorship Story - Janel

Please visit http://www.myleaven.org Produced by http://www.lifecairn.com

Salvation Army Today 3.27.14 The National Social Services & Emergency Disaster Conference

Salvation Army Today catches up with several delegates of the National Social Services & Emergency Disaster Conference.

Salvation Army Today 3.20.14 International Doctrine Council

The Salvation Army's International Doctrine Council now has a online presence. Chico State University students have teamed up with the Army to build homes.

The Leaven A Success

Please visit http://www.myleaven.org Produced by http://www.lifecairn.com

Salvation Army Today 3.18.14 Gas Explosion in East Harlem

The Salvation Army serves the displaced after a gas explosion leveling two buildings in East Harlem, NYC. The Salvation Army in Chattanooga, TN, USA is celebrating 121 years of serving the community.

Tupperware Fundraiser For Yippie Yogurt

There Is a Tupperware Fundraiser to benefit Yippie Foundation this Sunday, 3/16 from 3:00 – 4:30 PM at the Yippie Yogurt shop.

The Leaven - Apartment Owners & Managers

Please visit http://myleaven.org Produced by http://www.lifecairn.com

May 9th

The Yippie Foundation is pleased to announce that the 2014 “Sunset in the Gardens” fundraiser will be Friday, May 9^th  from 5:30 -8:00 pm in the beautiful Buck Mansion gardens in Vacaville.  Chef Daniel will be providing heavy appetizers.  Participants will have the opportunity to meet many of the Yippie students who are enrolled in the eleven-month Yippie Yogurt Youth Job Training Program.  A silent auction and raffle will help support the Yippie programs.

Tickets are $30 each or 2 for $50 and can be bought at the Yippie Yogurt Shop, Gillespie Abbey Carpets, online at Eventbrite at http://www.eventbrite.com/e/sunset-in-the-gardens-tickets-10609674823 or at www.YippieFoundation.org 

Yippie stands for ‘Youth Initiating Professional Preparedness in Employment.’  The Yippie Foundation is a local Solano County 501 (c) 3 nonprofit whose mission is to provide students with workforce development with marketable job readiness skills, food handler’s license, CPR and first aid certificates, mentoring, paid work experience at the Yippie Yogurt Shop, job placement and confidence.  Yippie graduates have a competitive edge in the entry-level career job market.  For more information, visitwww.YippieFoundation.org or call 707-208-0853.

Salvation Army Today - 3.04.14 - Photo Exhibition "Others", National Rel...

A new photographic exhibition has opened at International Headquarters in London, England. The Salvation Army was present at the National Religious Broadcasters Convention in Nashville, TN. Sharing ideas and educating the public of the Salvation Army 's Mission.

Next Friday

The Yippie Foundation is pleased to announce that the 2014 “Sunset in the Gardens” fundraiser will be Friday, May 9^th  from 5:30 -8:00 pm in the beautiful Buck Mansion gardens in Vacaville.  Chef Daniel will be providing heavy appetizers.  Participants will have the opportunity to meet many of the Yippie students who are enrolled in the eleven-month Yippie Yogurt Youth Job Training Program.  A silent auction and raffle will help support the Yippie programs.

Tickets are $30 each or 2 for $50 and can be bought at the Yippie Yogurt Shop, Gillespie Abbey Carpets, online at Eventbrite at http://www.eventbrite.com/e/sunset-in-the-gardens-tickets-10609674823 or at www.YippieFoundation.org 

Yippie stands for ‘Youth Initiating Professional Preparedness in Employment.’  The Yippie Foundation is a local Solano County 501 (c) 3 nonprofit whose mission is to provide students with workforce development with marketable job readiness skills, food handler’s license, CPR and first aid certificates, mentoring, paid work experience at the Yippie Yogurt Shop, job placement and confidence.  Yippie graduates have a competitive edge in the entry-level career job market.  For more information, visitwww.YippieFoundation.org or call 707-208-0853.

Great Fundraiser!

The Yippie Foundation is pleased to announce that the 2014 “Sunset in the Gardens” fundraiser will be Friday, May 9^thfrom 5:30 -8:00 pm in the beautiful Buck Mansion gardens in Vacaville.  Chef Daniel will be providing heavy appetizers.  Participants will have the opportunity to meet many of the Yippie students who are enrolled in the eleven-month Yippie Yogurt Youth Job Training Program.  A silent auction and raffle will help support the Yippie programs.

Tickets are $30 each or 2 for $50 and can be bought at the Yippie Yogurt Shop, Gillespie Abbey Carpets, online at Eventbrite at http://www.eventbrite.com/e/sunset-in-the-gardens-tickets-10609674823 or at www.YippieFoundation.org 

Yippie stands for ‘Youth Initiating Professional Preparedness in Employment.’  The Yippie Foundation is a local Solano County 501 (c) 3 nonprofit whose mission is to provide students with workforce development with marketable job readiness skills, food handler’s license, CPR and first aid certificates, mentoring, paid work experience at the Yippie Yogurt Shop, job placement and confidence.  Yippie graduates have a competitive edge in the entry-level career job market.  For more information, visitwww.YippieFoundation.org or call 707-208-0853.

The Salvation Army of Lodi: Culinary Arts

The Salvation Army of Lodi: Culinary Arts

Help from the Baby Closet

The birth of Tanya's twins was a traumatic event. Then, her marriage broke down. With so much on her plate the Salvation Army's Baby Closet program ended up being a real blessing.

The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and more than 120 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, providing shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction. When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.

Yippie Foundation’s “Sunset in the Gardens”

The Yippie Foundation is pleased to announce that the 2014 “Sunset in the Gardens” fundraiser will be Friday, May 9^thfrom 5:30 -8:00 pm in the beautiful Buck Mansion gardens in Vacaville.  Chef Daniel will be providing heavy appetizers.  Participants will have the opportunity to meet many of the Yippie students who are enrolled in the eleven-month Yippie Yogurt Youth Job Training Program.  A silent auction and raffle will help support the Yippie programs.

Tickets are $30 each or 2 for $50 and can be bought at the Yippie Yogurt Shop, Gillespie Abbey Carpets, online at Eventbrite at http://www.eventbrite.com/e/sunset-in-the-gardens-tickets-10609674823 or at www.YippieFoundation.org 

Yippie stands for ‘Youth Initiating Professional Preparedness in Employment.’  The Yippie Foundation is a local Solano County 501 (c) 3 nonprofit whose mission is to provide students with workforce development with marketable job readiness skills, food handler’s license, CPR and first aid certificates, mentoring, paid work experience at the Yippie Yogurt Shop, job placement and confidence.  Yippie graduates have a competitive edge in the entry-level career job market.  For more information, visitwww.YippieFoundation.org or call 707-208-0853.

TRAFC - Travis Regional Armed Forces Committee

It is the mission of the Travis Regional Armed Forces Committee to maintain liaison with the personnel at Travis Air Force Base, to promote the mission of the base to the community, and to enhance the importance of this facility as an instrument of national security. This will be accomplished by facilitating communications between the military and the civilian community and by providing a point of contact for support and recognition of the men and women of the Armed Forces.

Philip VelezTravis Regional Armed Forces Committee Phil Velez joined the Travis RAB in 2003. Phil served in intelligence, administration and social work positions with the U.S. Army for 26 years before retiring to public life in Vacaville. Phil is co-founder and member of the Travis Regional Armed Forces Committee and an honorary member of the Vacaville Chamber of Commerce. Phil is also chairman of the Vacaville celebration of the 61st Reunion of the Jimmy Doolittle Raid.

http://www.helpalongtheway.net/organizationswesupport/trafc.html

The Leaven

The Leaven History: In 2005, community leaders from Parkway Community Church, City of Fairfield, and the County of Solano identified a need to improve the quality of the most under-privileged neighborhoods in the City of Fairfield. They created The Leaven, an after-school tutoring and mentoring program, as a way to show care and compassion for and proactively address the needs of at-risk and under-performing youth. The Leaven program catapulted a dynamic volunteer force eager to engage in active service to help their neighbors. Together these volunteers, through a grassroots effort, launched the first Leaven neighborhood after-school tutoring center. The Leaven has grown to numerous tutoring centers in both Northern and Southern California with more centers planned for the future. Each center serves approximately 35–40 students. The tutoring program is free to any student in the target neighborhoods and is operational during after-school hours on most weekdays. The Leaven also provides summer programs that focus on both academics, physical fitness, healthy eating, and fun outings. Since 2005, The Leaven has impacted the lives of hundreds of children and their families, as well as made a significant improvement in the safety of the neighborhoods where they are located.

The Leaven has four main goals: To increase student success in the classroom academically and behaviorally. To inspire and enable students to make better choices for their health and future. To involve and equip parents to positively impact their children and their communities. To engage faith based groups in the work of active community service.

Find our more about The Leaven at their WEBSITE

The Suisun City KROC Center

The Suisun City KROC Center will offer individuals and families a range of activities and educational opportunities, including recreation and fitness facilities and cultural arts development. The Kroc Center will be open to the public and designed to serve community residents of all ages with a variety of quality program opportunities. 

The KROC Center, originally built as a city-owned recreation center and then leased to the YMCA, was purchased by The Salvation Army in December 2009 This facility will be over a 57,000 sq. ft. and with almost every square inch being extensively renovated and many new additions, it will offer state-of-the-art fitness equipment, an aquatic center, indoor gymnasium, dance studio, a party room, classrooms and multi-use community activity areas and even a 300 seat theater!

 

Find our more about the KROC Center and how you can get involved at their WEBSITE