Women of Dedication

Women of Dedication

The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary is a marvelous organization, filled with the spirit of generosity and graciousness. Having already produced a beautiful fall luncheon aptly titled Artistry of Tables & fashions at Kroc Community Center, where women in the Adult Rehabilitation Center were celebrated and table settings were absolutely magical, SAWA is now in full gear for the month of November. First up is an evening event co-hosted by Susie Spanos and Susan Oliver at the La Jolla Country Club where the 2016 Women of Dedication will be presented to the community. This is a departure from the traditional afternoon tea. It’s something new—change is in the air.  Sherry Ahern is Chair and Susie Spanos and Susan Oliver are Co-Chairs of the April 27, 2016 WOD luncheon, a high point on the San Diego scene. The November 5 Presentation Reception is the prologue to that big event. This year’s “50 and Fabulous” luncheon celebrated a half century of honoring outstanding women volunteers of San Diego County. 2016 moves on with the theme “The Gift of Giving.” Watch for the names of the newest ladies selected to become Women of Dedication. They will join a cadre of women who represent more than 50 years of San Diego history.

Later this month, some SAWA members will participate in the annual serving of Thanksgiving dinner to the homeless at Golden Hall. Christmas dinner in the same venue will find other SAWA ladies serving those in need. In December, the auxiliary will decorate various Corp sites and distribute gifts at Toy and Joy, where the homeless are welcomed and receive holiday presents. All Salvation Army Corp centers provide toy distribution for the needy. Seniors are celebrated by SAWA at a Christmas party, where they also receive gifts. Truly, auxiliary members are active all year long in support of a wide array of causes. They organize picnics and barbeques, homeless outreach programs, oversee wish list disbursements to many Army centers, support Pine Summit Camp, reorganize and remodel Salvation Army thrift stores, and fund raise for long-term capital improvements. SAWA does so much more, but this sampling tells the story of selflessness. These wonderful women place others before themselves. (619.446.0273, pamela.lennen@usw.salvationarmy.org)   DARLENE G. DAVIES

Salvation Army: Photo by Dave Siccardi