Product Description
Approved by the Commissioners' Conference February 2003
Few organizations are more dependent on their boards or advisory organizations than The Salvation Army. As the Army has grown to be the oldest and largest serve organization of its kind, it has also become increasingly complex. Its unique structure, diverse relationships, and multiplicity of programs have added to its complex nature. This is further compounded by the confidence placed upon the organization by the general public with its increasing demands to undertake a variety of additional community services. The Salvation Army wisely concluded many years ago that these responsibilities were beyond the capabilities of its officers to manage without significant support from local community leaders.
Advisory boards are absolutely essential in the work and acceptance of The Salvation Army in the communities in which they serve. These boards are no longer simply helpful to The Salvation Army, but are imperative to the work, progress, and life of it. The wisdom of involving key, influential leaders of the community in the work of the Army is obvious, and has proved itself many times over.
The continuity of The Salvation Army's work n a community is largely dependent upon the strength of the advisory board. The Salvation Army needs the wisdom, involvement and support of its advisory organizations. When consideration is given to the complexity of community needs, changing funding trends, increased government relationships, all complicated by the growing imposition of conflicting moral philosophies, it is critical that The Salvation Army be supported by strong, loyal, and involved advisory boards.
It is also true that board members cannot serve at their best if they do not understand clearly the mission of The Salvation Army along with their role and expectations within its framework. Board members must understand their relational roles, that is, That Salvation Army officers and board members alike are working toward a common goal. Members must gain an enlarged vision for the Army's influence in the community, and a clearer perception of the role that each party plays.
Service in this capacity can be a rewarding and enriching experience. It is desired that board members will receive as much as they give as they work diligently to impact their communities through The Salvation Army.
