Volunteer spotlight: Janice Danzel and Joe McCollow
The Salvation Army Northern Division is celebrating our volunteers throughout April. Check our Facebook page and news feed regularly this month to read stories about the incredible people who donate their time to help The Salvation Army in Minnesota and North Dakota. Find volunteer opportunities near you.
This week we are shining the spotlight on Janice Danzel and Joe McCollow – two magnificent volunteers who have given hundreds of hours of their time at The Salvation Army’s locations in Northeast Minneapolis and South Minneapolis, respectively.
Volunteers like Janice and Joe are vital to The Salvation Army’s mission of providing food, shelter and care for anyone who comes to us in need.
Janice Danzel
Janice Danzel has been helping The Salvation Army for 12 years. She is a compassionate person and a phenomenal volunteer.
She commits three days per week to help organize, clean, and stock the food pantry at the Central Salvation Army in Northeast Minneapolis, spending untold hours checking expiration dates to ensure that all food products are safe for our food pantry guests. She also informs management about products that need to be ordered when supplies are running low. She is always on time and respectful to our staff and guests.
Janice also provides a helping hand at major food distribution events, often helping our guests shop for food to ensure they receive the appropriate amount of goods for their household.
“Janice always has a smile on her face,” said Johnathan Luckey, Social Services Lead Coordinator at the Central Salvation Army in Northeast Minneapolis. “She maintains a positive attitude that radiates throughout the entire building. She is a blessing to The Salvation Army.”
In addition to helping The Salvation Army, Janice also volunteers at the American Humane Society, where she adopted her dog, Penny.
Joe McCollow
Joe McCollow’s life is a testament to his deep-rooted faith and commitment to serving others.
He lives out his faith at The Salvation Army in South Minneapolis, where he has volunteered for several years and become an integral part of its ministry.
Joe's unwavering support and genuine love for his work shine through in every aspect of his service. From his steadfast presence in the food pantry, to his dedication to ringing bells at the Red Kettles during the Christmas season, his willingness to lend a hand knows no bounds.
Even in the face of health issues, Joe's commitment to his community remains unwavering. He continues to volunteer tirelessly, embodying the true essence of selflessness and compassion.
“What sets Joe apart is not just his remarkable dedication, but his humility,” said Envoy Zarina Singh, administrator at the South Minneapolis Salvation Army. “He deflects any praise, attributing all glory to God and finding fulfillment in the simple joy of seeing others thrive. His selflessness serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of love and kindness in our world.”
Outside of his volunteer work with The Salvation Army, Joe spends time enjoying sports with his daughter and nephews; embarks on long walks while memorizing scripture; and volunteers at his church, where he reads scripture and administers the Eucharist.
Please join The Salvation Army's mission of serving others by giving a donation or signing up to volunteer.