Westland Rotary Club Member Margaret Harlow Shares Why She is a Bell Ringer
Every year, the Westland Rotarians bell ring for a full day during the holiday season on behalf of The Salvation Army Wayne/Westland Corps Community Center. We are grateful for their continued partnership, and today, we’ll be hearing from Margaret Harlow, current member and former president of the Rotary Club of Westland about why she supports our mission.
Q: How long have you been a supporter of The Salvation Army?
A: About 30 years ago, I was the president of the Rotary Club and a member of the Wayne/Westland Salvation Army advisory board. I saw that it was a natural fit to support The Salvation Army based on what you stand for, and I saw the needs in our community being met by your services. We especially fell in love with the corps day camp and have supported that for the last three decades with an annual donation.
Every year, Margaret volunteers as a bell ringer for The Salvation Army Wayne/Westland Corps Community Center.
Q: Why did the Rotary Club members decide to become bell ringers?
A: After several years of partnering with The Salvation Army, we wanted to do whatever we could to support the work. Every year, we get to have the inspiring experience of having people come up to us while we ring and tell us about how The Salvation Army helped them or a family member. I enjoy that so much, and it brings me back every year. I also love seeing parents slip their kids a few dollars to put into the kettle so they can learn how to give. In my mind, I’m hoping it sparks a conversation later about why it’s important to give and how The Salvation Army helps people in our community.
Q: How do you see The Salvation Army meeting needs for hardworking families?
A: I love that you provide afterschool care, as it helps both children and their parents. At Christmastime, families in need receive toys, clothes, food, and more for the holidays. While I was on the Advisory Board, I learned that you can receive help with utility bills year round. My takeaway from everything I’ve seen is that when parents and their kids go through tough times, especially right now, it’s nice to be able to count on someone to help you. The Salvation Army is that someone for so many families. It is always heartwarming to me to see people help each other – and The Salvation Army does that, not just during Christmas, but throughout the year.
Want to help us make sure that Hope Marches On for hardworking families in your community? Register to ring or donate today!