Salvation Envoy David Irwin-Shares His Story

 This week’s program was presented by one of our member’s -Dave Irwin of the Milford Salvation Army. 
Dave started his presentation with a brief biography of himself which included his attending Heldelberg College to pursue a career in music (voice). Dave sang professionally for 3 years with the Cleveland Opera prior to his calling as a minister with the Salvation Army. Dave sang several inspirational songs as part of his presentation and demonstrated not only his gift for singing but also his sincerity and commitment to his beliefs. Dave described the Salvation Army as a "traditional church with a social service side". 
Both Dave and his wife Jessie are ordained ministers with the Army and have four children. After presenting a number of slides showing his family members and the various activities he and his wife have been engaged in in their role as Envoys for the Salvation Army, he suggested several ways Rotarians or other members of the community can help during the upcoming holiday season.  

• Volunteering to pack food supplies for the Thanksgiving Holiday on Saturday morning November 15 (usually a 1 hour commitment)
• Volunteering to pack food supplies and toys for Christmas on Saturday morning December 15 (usually also a 1 hour commitment)
• Participate in the Adopt-A-Kettle program (The Rotary Club already Rings Bells but there's always room for family & friends to get together and volunteer for several hours).
• Spent a night as a family or a group ringing the bells at Millis Wonderland.
• Business Sponsorships for the Kettle Program - Companies can sponsor and match donations raised at particular kettle locations (i.e.: $500, $1,500 and $5,000 increments)
• Adopt-A-Family Program - buying Christmas presents for particular families in need
• Flag Program - instituted last year and participated by members of our club.

Dave finished his program by singing the Christian song "Thank You" to express appreciation for all the good works the club has participated in to help those in need. It was a song that he also sang at his mother's funeral. The song was met with a standing ovation by the club. 
It was unanimously decided that all fines would be given to the Salvation Army. (Text by Rotarian Dennis LaPlante and Rotarian Tom Sawyer)  If you would like to help with any of these projects call the Salvation Army at 508-473-0786. They could use your help.