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Social Services Conference
 A balmy day greeted the participants on May 23 when the NEOSA and SWONEKY divisions gathered at Camp Greenwood Lake, outside of Columbus, for the annual one day social services training. Planned by a joint committee of the two divisions under the leadership of Michelle Hannan (MSW, Columbus Area Services), the day was marked with laughter and tears, as more than 165 representatives from corps, service units, Adult Rehabilitation Centers, Harbor Light, area services, and divisional headquarters came together to sharpen skills and to connect with each other.
Greeted by Major Bonnie Schenk, SWONEKY divisional social services coordinator, who thanked participants for the work they do on the frontlines day after day, the conference attenders soon dispersed throughout the camp, ready to soak in all that had been prepared for them.
Presenters included Salvation Army staff, university professors, and even an investigator from the state's social work board, who spoke on ethical considerations. Topics such as client feedback, housing options, First Steps (healthy life choices), the Benefit Bank, the forty developmental assets, and choice pantries gave attendees a number of options to expand their knowledge.
A session on Gangs in Ohio was eye-opening, and laughter permeated the air in Major Paul Cain's session on team-building. Barbara Arnold (LSW), and Major (Dr.) JoAnn Shade collaborated on a session that explored the place of the Salvation Army 'at the table' of community involvement, and allowed staff to play the role of clients in their attempt to gain assistance from a less than helpful system.
Reflecting on his experience, one volunteer admitted, "I've been on the ministry team for a long time, but I've never experienced what it's like from the other side. Sometimes I can be judgmental - I will never forget what I felt this day." It was a day to remember, as encouragement, conviction and prayer filled the air, allowing each helper to return to his or her work refreshed and supported.
Story submitted by Major JoAnn Shade, D.Min. |
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