Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is an international human services organization—motivated by the Christian faith and inspired by the workings of the church—that aims to inspire pursuit of the Christian faith in all people. Founded by William Booth in 1867 under the name of “The Christian Mission,” the Salvation Army provides services for women and children, at-risk youth, families, the homeless, the incarcerated, and those suffering from drug addiction and/or substance abuse. Currently, the Salvation Army employs approximately 40,000 workers and about 1.5 million volunteers.

Salvation Army membership comprises adherents (those who consider the Salvation Army their place of worship), soldiers, and officers. Before they become members, soldiers are required to sign the Articles of War (a declaration of faith and practice). Officers must undergo a two-year course while in residence at one of the Salvation Army colleges in Chicago, Illinois; Suffern, New York; Atlanta, Georgia; or Rancho Palos Verdes, California. After graduating from these schools, officers are considered fully ordained ministers and commissioned officers, and they are assigned a place of service. Officers provide disaster relief and serve as youth leaders, counselors, teachers, and social workers. In addition, the League of Mercy—a Salvation Army visitation program—links volunteers, officers, and soldiers to those with special needs in hospitals, nursing homes, and prisons.