ASHLAND — A mission established 140 years ago in Ashland continues to make a profound local impact more than a century later.
The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center celebrated its 140th anniversary Thursday evening at Mount Vernon Estate. It was an evening full of memories, reflection and fellowship.
The Salvation Army has served Ashland County since 1886 and continues to provide essential social services, youth programs and community support through its Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center at 527 E. Liberty St.
Thursday’s banquet, emceed by Chelley Kemper, included the premier of a special 140th anniversary video, live music from the National Capital Band Sextet from Washington, D.C. and several special award presentations.
Below is a list of special award recipients:
- Distinguished Volunteer Award: Al Spieldenner
- Community Service Award: Ohio State Highway Patrol – Ashland Post
- Outstanding Community Partner Award: Ashland City Schools
- “Others” Award: James M. Cutright
The evening also included a keynote address from State Rep. Melanie Miller and an invitation to give from Dan Lawson, PhD, director of community relations and development for The Salvation Army of Ashland.
Salvation Army became part of Miller’s ‘testimony’
Miller’s keynote address was particularly emotional given her history with The Salvation Army of Ashland. She previously served as the organization’s youth ministries director, a job she began in 2008.
Miller shared the personal impact of The Salvation Army on her life.
“For me The Salvation Army became much more than an organization. It became part of my testimony. It became part of God’s plan for my life,” she said.
Miller’s connection with the organization dates back to her senior year of college at Cleveland State University. She created a marketing video for the Kroc Center as part of a senior project. This created connections that would eventually lead to employment.
“At that point in my life I was a new believer. I was walking with the Lord Jesus. I felt called by God to serve in full-time ministry,” Miller said. “But I didn’t know what that looked like and I felt the Lord calling me to serve in The Salvation Army.
“Looking back, I can see God was clearly laying the foundation of my Christian faith through The Salvation Army,” she said.
Below are photos from The Salvation Army Ashland’s 140th anniversary banquet, which took place Thursday evening at Mount Vernon Estate. (Credit: Hayden Gray)
