ASHLAND — The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center will commemorate 140 years of service to Ashland County with a special anniversary banquet Thursday at Mount Vernon Estate.
For more than a century, The Salvation Army has been a steady source of hope, help and belonging for individuals and families across Ashland County. Since opening in Ashland in 1886, the organization has responded to crises, strengthened families and met evolving community needs — from disaster relief efforts following the Great Flood of 1913 to expanded services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today, that mission continues to make a profound local impact. In 2025 alone, The
Salvation Army Kroc Center in Ashland:
- Served over 13,000 meals and fulfilled more than 5,000 grocery orders.
- Assisted over 27,000 individuals with food support.
- Provided utility assistance to 437 households.
- Ensured 321 families and 576 individual children would have Christmas presents under the tree.
- Supported 121 households with housing applications.
- Delivered approximately 5,000 referrals and advocacy services.
- Offered 120 nights of lodging assistance.
“This milestone is not only a celebration of our history — it’s a call to action,” said Dan
Lawson, PhD, director of community relations and development. “The needs in our
community continue to grow and sustained support is critical to ensure The Salvation
Army can serve Ashland for the next 140 years.”
Below is a historical timeline of The Salvation Army Ashland. The story continues below.
The evening will bring together community leaders, supporters and residents to reflect on the organization’s legacy while investing in its future.
The event will feature keynote remarks from State Rep. Melanie Miller of the Ohio House of Representatives, along with music by The Salvation Army’s famed Potomac Brass ensemble, presentation of Distinguished Volunteer, Community Partner and The Salvation Army’s prestigious “Others” Awards; a commemorative 140th anniversary video featuring historical highlights, a silent auction and more.
Event details:
- Date: Thursday, May 14, 2026
- Location: Mount Vernon Estate, Ashland, Ohio
- Schedule:
- Doors open at 5 p.m. with Hors d’oeuvres & Silent Auction.
- Dinner and Award Ceremony at 6 p.m.
Proceeds from the event will directly support The Salvation Army’s vital programs in
Ashland County, ensuring continued assistance for individuals and families facing food
insecurity, housing instability and other urgent needs. Community members are encouraged to attend, give and be part of shaping the next chapter of service.
Registration and donations can be made at: https://give.salvationarmy.org/event/neo-ashland-140th-anniversary-dinner/e775310.
For more information, please follow Ashland Kroc Center on Facebook or @AshlandKroc on Instagram. Should you have any questions, feel free to call the Ashland Kroc Center at (419)-281-8001.
About The Salvation Army Ashland
The Salvation Army has served Ashland County since 1886, providing essential social
services, youth programs and community support. Through its Ray & Joan Kroc Corps
Community Center, the organization continues to meet both immediate needs and long-term well-being for thousands of residents each year — carrying forward a mission of compassion that has endured for 140 years.