Nicole Berg shares lessons learned as The Salvation Army Administrative Assistant
Hi! My name is Nicole. I began working at The Salvation Army in November 2018 because I saw it as an opportunity use my gifts to serve the community in a positive way.
To me, the most amazing part is the people you get to work with and the people we serve. The smiles, both from those who come in our doors for help and those who are working along-side you.
I see a lot of generosity. I’ll never forget when FDL went through a flood in the spring of 2019. We had displaced families and those in need of immediate help. We had agencies coming together quickly to develop plans and get everyone what they needed. We also had community members coming into our office wondering how they could help. Both monetary donations and supplies were given by our community members so generously. You could see the genuine concern for everyone's well-being.
I see a lot of need. I’ll never forget the day a client was sitting in our lobby waiting for an appointment with our caseworker. While she waited, she received news that an apartment had become available for her. She jumped up with excitement and gave our caseworker a huge hug. Her joy was contagious!
The biggest misconception many people have about those who come to us in need, is that being in need must mean you’re lazy or unmotivated. This is not the case. I've learned we are all one injury, medical emergency, or job loss away from being the one who needs help.
Working here reaffirms my belief that when we serve one another in love, it makes our community stronger.