The Salvation Army

I am disappointed to say I am only able to give two stars. I have volunteered previously at the annual Christmas event the SA hosts and thought it was well executed and successful. My experience, however, at the Easter Eggstravaganza was not the same. We had a shift from 9AM-​12PM at the arts and crafts booth. After we signed in we were left with no direction as to where we were supposed to go. After wandering aimlessly we approached staff members and only then were we shown to our booth. We waited a good two hours before someone came over to begin organizing the table. Still no instructions were given. We were with another woman and her family who were also frustrated. We, again, were not even acknowledged. After trying to get involved but were rudely ignored and replaced by other volunteers we decided to leave. The other woman who waited with us for 2 hours went and explained the situation to the woman who seemed to be directing the event and received no response. This was the most disappointing volunteer experience I have ever had. It was a waste of time even showing up. If you want people coming of their own free will to help contribute to the community and your organization I recommend practicing better manners and organization.

My company was able to be a part of a recent toy sorting event hosted by a partnership between The Salvation Army and United Way. This was a great event and it was well organized and well thought out.
After a brief introduction from both charities and a little history of what their missions entail and what their goals are for the future, we were able to get out onto the main shipping floor and get to work. This event was to help to take Angel Tree cards and sort through toy bins in order to fulfill the gift «wishes» of the child on each card. Two toys were bagged for each child and placed into appropriate bins in order to ensure that they are delivered on time.
This event was a lot of fun and would be a great work /​church /​group event for those looking to give back during the holidays. They also have United Way food sorting events hosted at some of their locations from month-​to-​month for those looking to volunteer throughout the year.
Overall: A+
Great charities joining together for a great cause. It was fun, interactive and informative.