Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.

Our vision

A world where everyone has a decent place to live.

Our principles

 

    Demonstrate the love of Jesus Christ.

    Focus on shelter.

    Advocate for affordable housing.

    Promote dignity and hope.

    Support sustainable and transformative development.

Who we are

Habitat for Humanity partners with people in your community, and all over the world, to help them build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. With your support, Habitat homeowners achieve the strength, stability and independence they need to build a better life for themselves and for their families. Through our 2020 Strategic Plan, Habitat for Humanity will serve more people than ever before through decent and affordable housing.

Non-proselytizing policy

Habitat for Humanity and its affiliate organizations will not proselytize. Nor will Habitat work with entities or individuals who insist on proselytizing as part of their work with Habitat. This means that Habitat will not offer assistance on the expressed or implied condition that people must adhere to or convert to a particular faith or listen and respond to messaging designed to induce conversion to a particular faith.

History

The idea that became Habitat for Humanity first grew from the fertile soil of Koinonia Farm, a community farm outside of Americus, Georgia, founded by farmer and biblical scholar Clarence Jordan.

On the farm, Jordan and Habitat’s eventual founders Millard and Linda Fuller developed the concept of “partnership housing.” The concept centered on those in need of adequate shelter working side by side with volunteers to build decent, affordable houses. The houses would be built at no profit. New homeowners’ house payments would be combined with no-interest loans provided by supporters and money earned by fundraising to create “The Fund for Humanity,” which would then be used to build more homes.

Beau and Emma were the owners of the first home built by Koinonia’s Partnership Housing Program. They and their five children moved into a concrete-block home with a modern kitchen, indoor bathroom and heating system, replacing the unpainted, uninsulated shack with no plumbing where they had previously lived.

In 1973, the Fullers decided to take the Fund for Humanity concept to Zaire, now the Democratic Republic of Congo. After three years of hard work to launch a successful house building program there, the Fullers then returned to the United States and called together a group of supporters to discuss the future of their dream: Habitat for Humanity International, founded in 1976.

The times have changed, the build site locations have grown in number, but the very real change that Beau and Emma’s family experienced is shared by families today who partner with Habitat to build or improve a place they can call home. Thanks in no small part to the personal involvement of U.S. President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn and the awareness they have raised, Habitat now works in all 50 states in the U.S. and in more than 70 countries and has helped more than 22 million people achieve strength, stability and independence through safe, decent and affordable shelter.

The international Red Cross and Red Crescent network is the largest humanitarian network in the world with a presence and activities in almost every country.

All Red Cross and Red Crescent activities have one central purpose: to help those who suffer, without discrimination, whether during conflict, in response to natural or man-made disasters, or due to conditions of chronic poverty.

There are three parts of the global Red Cross network. Each has its own individual status and exercises no authority over the others. Learn more below.

National societies

The National Red Cross/Red Crescent Societies - Meeting the Needs of Vulnerable People, Wherever They May Be

These organizations are the individual societies of nearly every independent country in the world, chartered by their respective governments. Together, the National Societies assist some 284 million people each year by:

    Providing relief to disaster survivors Educating the public about how to prevent the spread of disease Helping communities prepare for emergencies, including providing first aid training Reconnecting families separated by disasters and conflict in coordination with the ICRC Promoting international humanitarian law

Because each society focuses on helping people within its borders, they also take on tasks based on local needs:

    The American Red Cross provides nearly half of the nation’s blood supply. The Palestine Red Crescent Society and Mexican Red Cross operate hospitals and ambulances. The Norwegian and Italian Red Cross conduct search and rescue operations. The Kenyan, Russian and Viet Nam Red Cross provide care and support to people living with HIV/AIDS.

 

The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.​

Vision Statement

The American Red Cross, through its strong network of volunteers, donors and partners, is always there in times of need. We aspire to turn compassion into action so that...

 ...all people affected by disaster across the country and around the world receive care, shelter and hope;

...our communities are ready and prepared for disasters;

...everyone in our country has access to safe, lifesaving blood and blood products;

...all members of our armed services and their families find support and comfort whenever needed; and

...in an emergency, there are always trained individuals nearby, ready to use their Red Cross skills to save lives.

Fundamental Principles of the Global Red Cross Network         

Humanity

The Red Cross, born of a desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield, endeavors—in its international and national capacity—to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found. Its purpose is to protect life and health and to ensure respect for the human being. It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting peace amongst all peoples.

Impartiality

It makes no discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class or political opinions. It endeavors to relieve the suffering of individuals, being guided solely by their needs, and to give priority to the most urgent cases of distress.

Neutrality

In order to continue to enjoy the confidence of all, the Red Cross may not take sides in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies of a political, racial, religious or ideological nature.

Independence

The Red Cross is independent. The national societies, while auxiliaries in the humanitarian services of their governments and subject to the laws of their respective countries, must always maintain their autonomy so that they may be able at all times to act in accordance with Red Cross principles.

Voluntary Service

The Red Cross is a voluntary relief movement not prompted in any manner by desire for gain.

Unity

There can be only one Red Cross society in any one country. It must be open to all. It must carry on its humanitarian work throughout its territory.

Universality

The Red Cross is a worldwide institution in which all societies have equal status and share equal responsibilities and duties in helping each other.

Where Your Money Goes

An average of 90 cents of every dollar the American Red Cross spends is invested in delivering care and comfort to those in need. Everything we do depends on the needs of the people that we serve.

Our History

More Than a Century of Compassionate Service

Since our founding by Clara Barton on May 21, 1881, the American Red Cross has been dedicated to serving people in need. We received our first congressional charter in 1900 and to this day we are tasked by the federal government with providing services to members of the American armed forces and their families as well as providing disaster relief in the United States and around the world.

Even while the Red Cross adapts to meet the changing needs of the people we serve, we always stay true to those roots. Are you familiar with the classic images of Red Cross nurses helping American soldiers and civilian war victims during World War I? In fact, as you read this Red Cross staff and volunteers are still deploying alongside America’s military. Maybe you’ve taken a class through the Red Cross, such as first aid certification or how to swim. Did you know we’ve been offering similar training since the early 1900s? Have you ever given blood or received donated blood? The Red Cross developed the first nationwide civilian blood program in the 1940s and we still provide more than 40% of the blood products in this country.

Today, as throughout our long history, the Red Cross depends on generous contributions of time, blood, and money from the American public to support our lifesaving services and programs. We invite you to learn about our history and hope you will feel inspired to become more involved with the Red Cross.

The Salvation Army is an integral part of the Christian Church, although distinctive in government and practice. The Army’s doctrine follows the mainstream of Christian belief and its articles of faith emphasise God’s saving purposes. Its objects are ‘the advancement of the Christian religion… of education, the relief of poverty, and other charitable objects beneficial to society or the community of mankind as a whole.’*

The movement, founded in 1865 by William Booth, has spread from London, England, to many parts of the world.

The rapid deployment of the first Salvationists was aided by the adoption of a quasi-military command structure in 1878 when the title, ‘The Salvation Army’, was brought into use. A similarly practical organisation today enables resources to be equally flexible. Responding to a recurrent theme in Christianity which sees the Church engaged in spiritual warfare, the Army has used to advantage certain soldierly features such as uniforms, flags and ranks to identify, inspire and regulate its endeavours.

Evangelistic and social enterprises are maintained, under the authority of the General, by full-time officers and employees, as well as soldiers who give service in their free time. The Army also benefits from the support of many adherents and friends, including those who serve on advisory boards.

Leadership in the Army is provided by commissioned officers who are recognised ministers of religion.

All Salvationists accept a disciplined and compassionate life of high moral standards which includes abstinence from alcohol and tobacco. From its earliest days the Army has accorded women equal opportunities, every rank and service being open to them and from childhood the young are encouraged to love and serve God.

Raised to evangelise, the Army spontaneously embarked on schemes for the social betterment of the poor. Such concerns have since developed, wherever the Army operates, in practical, skilled and cost-effective ways. Evolving social services meet endemic needs and specific crises worldwide. Modern facilities and highly-trained staff are employed.

The need for modern facilities and longer-term development is under continual review. Increasingly the Army’s policy and its indigenous membership allow it to cooperate with international relief agencies and governments alike.

The movement’s partnership with both private and public philanthropy will continue to bring comfort to the needy, while the proclamation of God’s redemptive love offers individuals and communities the opportunity to enjoy a better life on earth and a place in Christ’s everlasting Kingdom.

The Salvation Army is currently led by General Brian Peddle, who was elected as the 21st General on 3 August 2018.

When William and Catherine Booth began the work in London that would grow to become The Salvation Army, few would have predicted their legacy: an organisation, part of the Christian Church, now working in more than 130 countries and with a history spanning more than 150 years. Throughout this time there have been millions of members, and people have been helped right across the world – but this movement had humble beginnings.

Early days

Born in 1829 in Nottingham, UK, William Booth found his Christian faith early on in life and became an active Methodist, preaching and helping the poor in his local area. After some time working as a pawnbroker, he moved with his wife Catherine Mumford to the east of London. The two of them began working with a group of Christian businessmen who were concerned for the poor and disadvantaged in their community. In June 1865, William Booth preached to crowds outside the Blind Beggar pub; a new organisation, The Christian Mission, was born.

Over the next few years, the movement flourished. Its focus on teaching people about the message of Jesus in a way they could relate to, meeting wherever they could – dance halls, bowling alleys and outdoors – as well as addressing some of their material needs, saw many people become Christians. Despite opposition from parts of the public who disliked some of the Booths’ methods and style, many joined.

Their focus on those who had been rejected by the traditional churches was key. All were welcome – including those impoverished and disadvantaged.

A renaming

It was in 1878 that The Christian Mission got its present name. William Booth objected to a phrase contained in that year’s annual report: ‘The Christian Mission … is a Volunteer Army.’ By replacing the word ‘volunteer’, The Salvation Army had its new title and with it an inspired metaphor for its role in fighting the injustices of society and in bringing people to understand God. Over time, the organisation gained military-style titles (ministers are ‘officers’, for example) and even uniforms designed to publicly demonstrate a commitment to God.

Despite the differences between the Army of today and that of 1865, the organisation continues to be relevant to people and their situations. From weekly worship services, outdoor events, clubs and activities through to responding to disasters and providing practical support to those in need of help, the same spirit of putting the gospel into action as in those early days carries on.

Today, statues of William and Catherine Booth stand in the area of London where The Salvation Army began

Today, statues of William and Catherine Booth stand in the area of London where The Salvation Army began

1878

Music can be found in The Salvation Army in many forms

The Salvation Army is well-known for its music. Its bands and choirs can be found in many countries, with numerous other creative expressions like dance and drama springing from the movement.

Open-air music

Songs were one of the tools of The Salvation Army right from its early days as the Christian Mission. Popular songs were rewritten with new lyrics which explained the Christian faith and used alongside well-known and contemporary hymns. Concertinas, tambourines and guitars were played at first, but it was not long before a style more suited to outdoor services was found – brass!

The first Salvation Army brass group was heard in 1878 when a Methodist preacher named Charles Fry, together with his three sons, played instruments to support the Army in open-air meetings in Salisbury, UK. They were soon travelling with Booth as he toured the UK, becoming a distinctive and effective feature of the Army’s style. Bands were also formed in areas such as Consett, Northwich, Whitechapel and Portsmouth. Over time, many gifted composers used their skills to write new music for Salvation Army groups to play, bringing glory to God. Today, brass groups remain an important way of attracting crowds and telling people about him.

Staying relevant

There have been many other arts groups within the Army in its history. Between 1963 and 1968, Captain Joy Webb led The Joystrings in performing contemporary music, achieving chart success and capturing the attention of millions. Throughout the second half of the 20th century, Salvation Army officers John Gowans and John Larsson (both of whom would go on to become General) collaborated on a series of popular musicals to share the Gospel message, with titles including Take-over Bid, Spirit, Son of Man and The Meeting.

In most Army churches and centres, music, drama and dance play a central role in allowing people to become involved in publicly communicating the Bible.

Music was a key part of the meetings at the Boundless international congress (2015)

1880

The Army starts working overseas

It is remarkable to think that William Booth was initially unsure about whether to extend the work of The Salvation Army beyond Britain, given how widespread the organisation is nowadays.

Early pioneers

The first such venture was in 1879, when Salvationist Amos Shirley travelled to Philadelphia, USA with his family and began working for the Army unofficially. Booth cautiously decided, upon learning of this, to send a small group to New York the following year to formally commence the Army’s work: George Scott Railton and seven others. Just as in the UK, street preaching and practical assistance was used to great effect. By late 1880, 1,500 people had come to have a Christian faith through the relationships built by these Salvation Army pioneers.

International expansion was quick. In the same year, the Army extended to Australia when John Gore and Edward Saunders held meetings in Adelaide and offered food to those who were hungry. The first meetings in Paris were held in 1881 by Catherine Booth-Clibborn – or la Maréchale (marshal’s wife) as she was known – eldest daughter of the Founders. 1882 saw work begin in Canada, Switzerland and Sweden, and 1883 saw Sri Lanka, South Africa and New Zealand added, amongst others, and on it continued.

Being part of the community

 

Wherever The Salvation Army has gone, it has been careful and try and work alongside people in a culturally-appropriate way, not to impose.

    ‘I say to my officer who is going to Holland “Can you be a Dutchman?” To the man who is going to Zululand “Can you be a Zulu?” To the one going to India “Can you be an Indian?” If you cannot, you must not go at all.’

William Booth

When Frederick Booth-Tucker started The Salvation Army’s activities in India in 1882 he and his group adopted Indian names, dressed as locals and worked amongst the outcasts of society.

In each country, the Army has developed programmes that are relevant to the local community. It has diverse expressions, whilst remaining true to one message of God and of salvation. By the time of William Booth’s death in 1912, the Army was working in 58 countries. Today the figure is more than 130.

All the World, reporting on the Army’s work globally, is published four times a year.

1883

An Army fighting for justice

The Salvation Army opened its first Labour Exchange in 1890

‘Soup, soap and salvation’ was a common saying amongst early Salvationists, and is still repeated today. It sums up the idea of the importance of offering practical as well as spiritual support. Soup kitchens and showers were offered alongside sermons and services.

Helping society

In the 1880s, new types of social work began. In 1883 a prison-gate home was opened in Melbourne, Australia, to provide support for prisoners re-entering the community. The following year a women’s rescue home was opened in London. 1885 saw the age of consent in the UK raised following a campaign by the Army. In 1890 it opened its first labour exchange to help people in finding work. These and other actions paved the way for the publication, in October 1890, of William Booth’s famous work In Darkest England and the Way Out.

This book acted as a blueprint for the Army’s efforts to address poverty and poor quality of life on a wider scale. It described the slum conditions, homelessness and starvation of much of Great Britain and laid out a way of improving it. Rescue homes, skills training and co-operatives were proposed, and donations flooded in from society’s wealthiest.

Changing lives

Help was designed to not simply be a one-off but as an opportunity for real change. In the same year as In Darkest England, the Booths opened a match factory in London. Its purpose was to challenge the industry use of white phosphorous in their production, which caused necrosis (‘phossy jaw’) and baldness in workers. The new matches, packaged in boxes labelled ‘Lights in Darkest England’, paved the way for universal adoption of safer red phosphorous.

Similar projects to bring about systematic change developed all around the world as the Army grew. The first Salvation Army hospital was in founded in 1897 in Nagercoil, India – there are now tens of hospitals worldwide, plus thousands of schools, health projects, sanitation programmes and other social services. The motivation remains the same: a love of God’s people and a desire to put our beliefs into action. Above all, the aim is to provide a ‘hand up, not a hand-out’ – just as that proposed by In Darkest England and the Way Out.

1888

Young people's work organised

The Salvation Army has always worked with young people, recognising their worth and therefore the importance of being relevant to them.

Meetings and publications

In 1888, these activities were formalised and by 1897 the first national meetings for the age group were being held in the UK. In 1906, publications for young people were launched. In the 1910s, scouting groups were being created in Europe, Africa, Australasia and North America. With Scout, Cub, Brownie and Guide groups at Salvation Army centres around the world, this is still an important part of the organisation’s ministry.

In modern times, there are all kinds of young people’s activities. Junior bands, choirs and drama groups rehearse hard in many Army centres, alongside bible study and social groups. Young people also support The Salvation Army in other ways, from fundraising to volunteering themselves.

Developing young people

Youth clubs, social services and toddler groups provide practical support for families as well as introducing them to the Army. For many decades it has run summer camps all over the world, not only for those who regularly attend Army programmes throughout the year but also for those referred by municipal services or as a result of other Army work. A programme of sports, art and games sits alongside the development of young people’s spiritual life. Many adults refer to the Army’s involvement in their lives at a young age as being pivotal in their growing up.

1914

The Army supports soldiers in the First World War

In some of the world’s most difficult and fragile environments, The Salvation Army can be found lending a hand.

Supporting troops

In 1894, The Salvation Army Naval and Military League was established. It aimed to serve the needs of Salvationist sailors and soldiers, from the practical – refreshments and food parcels – to the emotional and spiritual – being a listening ear. 1899 saw the start of the Second Boer War, and Army services were sent to the battlefields.

It was in the First World War, lasting from 1914 to 1918, that The Salvation Army’s role in conflicts really stepped up. Evangeline Booth, daughter of William and Catherine and commander of the Army in the US, created a National War Board to organise and raise funds for its efforts in helping military personnel at US bases. Before long, she decided that Salvationists too – aside from those serving in the regular forces – must go overseas to support those fighting. Motor ambulances, meals and chaplaincy services were all offered.

It was here that ‘Doughnut Girls’ first provided simple home comforts using the limited ingredients available locally – flour, sugar, lard and cinnamon. These proved essential in helping to combat the depression and homesickness experienced in the trenches. By the end of the war, The Salvation Army had earned widespread public approval and financial support for its role in helping with the morale of troops.

Evangeline Booth’s parting words to those serving were:

    ‘You are going overseas to serve Christ. You must forget yourselves, be examples of his love, willing to endure hardship, to lay down your lives, if need be, for his sake. In your hands you hold the honour of The Salvation Army.’

In every situation in which the Army has assisted – the Second World War, Vietnam War, Biafran War, Gulf War, and others – even where the methods have changed these principles have remained the same.

1929

First election of a General

Sunbury Court near London, UK, traditional meeting place of the High Council

In planning for the future leadership of the organisation, William Booth had always envisaged a General choosing his or her own successor, and so it was in this way that his son Bramwell Booth became leader.

However, William also made provision for exceptional cases whereby a General could be removed from office, such as through illness. A group of senior officers, known as a High Council, could meet and discuss the issue, electing a new leader if necessary.

The first High Council

This procedure is exactly what happened in 1929. 63 officers met in London and concluded that Bramwell was unfit for office. The 73-year old had not been present at International Headquarters for some seven months owing to ill health, and it was felt that Commissioner Edward Higgins was the best choice to succeed Bramwell.

Following this, senior leadership in the Army decided that election of the General was in fact the most suitable method of choosing the holder of this important role. 1931 saw The Salvation Army Act come into being, meaning that the terms are office are now enshrined in UK law. All Generals must be elected by a High Council, and there are limits on the length of time they can hold the role.

Each General brings something different to the office of leader. The High Council process, in which each prospective General explains their vision for the organisation, ensures that the current feeling of the Army – in all of the areas in which it works – is reflected. The Army has, at different times, been led by Generals from Canada, Sweden, Finland, Australia, the US and elsewhere.

Accountability

The General is not the only provider of leadership within the Army however. The international Army is divided up into territories and commands, made up of one or more countries, with are subdivided into divisions and then corps or centres. At each level leaders are given responsibility, supporting the General in running this global organisation.

It is particularly important in such a large and diverse organisation for good governance to be at the forefront. It is for this reason that the Accountability Movement was formally established in 2016, calling on each person in The Salvation Army to be ‘accountable for every aspect of our journey through life. We are pilgrims and accountability helps us keep going in the right direction.’

1934

First female General

If William Booth is the father of The Salvation Army, his wife Catherine is seen as the Army Mother. Her contribution to the organisation was just as valuable, and was behind the Army’s views on many different issues.

In 1859, Catherine wrote a pamphlet entitled ‘Female Ministry: Woman’s Right to Preach the Gospel’ in which she argued powerfully for the right of women to preach the Christian message. Although she was not the only person saying these things, it was still ground-breaking at the time, in a world in which leadership and church ministry were usually reserved for men.

Evangeline Booth

The importance of the role of women in The Salvation Army is reflected in its leadership. Evangeline Booth, previously Commander in the US, became the first female leader, elected the fourth General in 1934 – and other women have followed. In all areas of Salvation Army leadership – locally and nationally – women are represented.

Today, Women’s Ministries programmes and resources are available throughout the world aiming ‘to bring women into a knowledge of Jesus Christ; encourage their full potential in influencing family, friends and community; equip them for growth in personal understanding and life skills; address issues which affect women and their families in the world.’

Our international women’s magazine Revive is published several times a year.

1959

Caring for older people

Just as the Army seeks to serve younger people, we believe in the dignity of older people and consider it a privilege to offer services to this particular age group.

Over-60s clubs

In 1959, the first over-60s clubs were inaugurated. Building on the organisation’s previous work, these groups offered friendship and activities to a generation often more vulnerable to loneliness, particularly post-retirement, and are still run today.

Practical needs

Sometimes more intense support is called for, and the Army runs a number of residential homes where practical needs are taken care of. At lots of corps and centres, befriending schemes are run where volunteers take the time to regularly make contact – by phone or in person – with older people. Many describe this as incredibly rewarding. Elsewhere, home shopping schemes and day trips are organised.

Supporting those with addiction

For those in need, The Salvation Army runs a number of addiction rehabilitation programs. We believe in a holistic approach, not just helping the person to overcome their addiction, but attacking the roots of that addiction.

This goes right back to the early days of the organisation. As mentioned earlier, many churches at this time rejected those on the fringes of society, particularly those who suffered from addiction problems including alcohol. The Salvation Army instead sought to welcome these people, and moreover to help them.

Members of the Army, known as soldiers, commit themselves not to drinking alcohol, smoking tobacco or taking harmful drugs, recognising the negative impact these things can have upon one's life. But it also serves as a sign of solidarity with those who are also seeking to give up damaging substances.

Around the world, the Army offers help and support for those who are addicted. From addiction centres, support groups or just an understanding conversation as a starting point, we want people to live life as fully as possible.

Help with addiction is provided in a holistic fashion (photo: SAConnects)

 

Help with addiction is provided in a holistic fashion (photo: SAConnects)

Men attend a weekend away as part of their rehabilitation process in Maine,

2001

The Army in disasters and emergencies

Responding with compassion

Significantly in recent history, this was the case following the tragic attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City on 11 September 2001. Within half an hour of the reports of a plane crash at the site, the Army was present. For nine months following that day it provided pastoral support and refreshments to those involved in rescue and recovery efforts, and was involved in the larger rebuilding projects until 2006.

    ‘Incidents of national significance morph quickly into legend. The Salvation Army will always be noted historically for the service it provided in New York, but more importantly, The Salvation Army will be remembered by the individual lives it touched.’

John Berglund, part of the Army’s response team on 9/11

This response is echoed in many of the world’s consequential events: in earthquakes, floods, fires, hurricanes, tornados, tsunamis, winter storms and extreme heatwaves, The Salvation Army has provided expertise and support where it is needed most.

2008

International social justice work

The Salvation Army has worked at the United Nations since 1947, the very early days of the latter organisation. Being concerned with matters of justice at a local level, as the Army was, it was similarly concerned with seeking justice in matters of poverty, gender equality, security, development and health that touched countries on an international scale. Therefore, the opportunity to contribute as a non-governmental organisation into the work of the UN has proved important.

The International Social Justice Commission

In 2008, General Shaw Clifton expanded this work by establishing the International Social Justice Commission. Based a few streets away from the headquarters of the UN itself, it is ideally located near to influential politicians, charities and faith-based organisations and aims to amplify the voices of the world’s oppressed.

Development work

Alongside these efforts, The Salvation Army organises and funds many initiatives to bring about real change for communities in the most need. A team at International Headquarters supports development work right across the world, with many of the Army’s territories running similar services with their own funding. From health clinics and hospitals (the first Army hospital was in Nagercoil, India in 1897), to schools, sanitation projects and community centres, The Salvation Army uses money generously given by the public and other sources to make a positive difference.

2015

150 years of The Salvation Army

From time to time in The Salvation Army’s history, it has held International Congresses. National and Territorial Congresses are held regularly, but these international occasions have seen the whole of the organisation convening for special meetings.

Celebrating 150 years

Usually held in London, the 2000 Congress was arranged in Atlanta, USA. However, 2015 saw a return to the birthplace of the Army, London, for a highly significant anniversary: 150 years since its founding.

Whereas previous Congresses have been held over the course of a weekend, this anniversary was marked with a five-day event in the O2, a large London event space. Themed Boundless – The Whole World Redeeming, reflecting William Booth’s hymn ‘O Boundless Salvation’, the name also echoes Ephesians 3:8:

    'Preach to the nations the boundless riches of Christ!'

'Total commitment to the mission'

Boundless saw Salvationists from across the globe gather for music concerts, exhibitions, dance and drama performances, and of course meetings in the main arena offering reflection, prayer and worship of God. This culminated in General André Cox’s call for Salvationists to focus on God’s work. ‘This is boundless salvation’, he said, ‘A total surrender of our lives and the total commitment to the mission.’

 

Each event of the Congress was planned, first of all, to bring honour and glory to the Lord, but also to display the cultural diversity of our worldwide Army.

It is astonishing to think how far the organisation has developed in its history. From the early days of street preaching in London, it now offers vibrant weekly worship, practical care for the disadvantaged and services meeting all kinds of social needs. Through the vision of the Booths and subsequent leaders, members and friends, The Salvation Army is known in so many parts of the world, and through its work

Today

What is your place in the story?

The 150th anniversary celebrations led naturally into a renewed focus, from 2017, on Salvationists mobilising in their own communities, to share the gospel and to meet human needs in an authentic and locally-relevant way.

    ‘God has placed us in a community ... We can't wait for people to come to us, we need to get out and reach them.’

General André Cox, 2017

The next chapter

Whatever your reason for wanting to find out the story of The Salvation Army, you will not have failed to realise that it involves the work of many people – pioneering leaders, team players, supporters, members, friends and those in need. Through them, lives have been transformed. The next chapter relies on passionate people too.

The mission remains the same as in 1865 – what role will you play in the next part of The Salvation Army's history?

United Way is engaged in nearly 1,800 communities across more than 40 countries and territories worldwide.  We are focused on creating community-based and community-led solutions that strengthen the cornerstones for a good quality of life: education, financial stability and health.

We envision a world where every community is a strong one, with jobs that pay a livable wage, good schools and a healthy environment.  Around the world, we engage people and organizations in innovative solutions that are transforming that vision into reality.

United Way improves lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities around the world to advance the common good.

We all have a stake in what befalls our fellow man. We all benefit when a child succeeds in school, when someone finds a job that will help them provide for their family, or when more people are able to access quality, affordable health care. 

The solutions we create for communities around the world go beyond short-term charity for a few.  When United Way’s support for Community Schools helps increase the graduation rate in the Vallejo City Unified School District by 11 percent in just three years, it’s not just the students, or even just the families of those students who benefit. Those proud graduates now have a much better chance of landing a job that pays a livable wage, of staying out of trouble with the law, and of living longer, healthier lives — and that translates into a safer, healthier and more prosperous community for everyone.

We rise or fall together. With your support, we are reaching for great new heights.