New Purpose at Dearborn Heights Corps
Bill Julien first got involved with The Salvation Army when he and his family were going through a rough time. When his uncle died and left his disabled cousin homeless, Julien tried to get custody of her despite already caring for his parents and fighting cancer. The Salvation Army helped his cousin into a group home and Bill has been part of the Dearborn Heights Corps ever since.
Now five years later, the 59-year-old is a cancer survivor working to fill the need at his local corps. He started by running the soundboard during church services and now helps run the food pantry every week.
To Julien, serving others is a passion. He understands how important it is for people to see that someone cares, so he makes a point to remember the names of regulars and greet everyone with a smile.
“I have gone through my share of struggles, and I want to help others through theirs, too,” he says. “During the pandemic, I have tried to encourage people by reminding them that we are in this together.”
After losing most of his family, volunteering at The Salvation Army is the highlight of his day and given him new purpose.
“The Salvation Army is like family – you give help and you get help,” he says. “I always feel like I’m part of something good when I’m here.”
April is Volunteer Month. All month long, The Salvation Army Eastern Michigan Division recognizes, celebrates and thanks its incredible volunteers for their commitment, dedication and support to help Do The Most Good.