The Salvation Army's Multi-Faceted Mission
In Ventura and Around the World
 
Rotary and the Salvation Army are similar in many ways, not the least of which is the international scope of their humanitarian efforts. At our meeting on Monday, March 13, member and guests of Ventura Rotary South got a firsthand look at what the Army is doing to assist people right here in our home community, thanks to a fascinating and enthusiastic presentation from Lieutenant Fabio Simoes who heads up the Army's Ventura-area operations.
 
Fabio began his talk with a little personal history, noting that he was born and raised in Brazil. As an adult, he followed two roads simultaneously: his passion for music, and his education as a dentist. In 2002, while on vacation in the U.S., he spent some time with a friend who was involved with the Salvation Army. Three years later, when he felt a need to "change his life," he answered the call to serve. He and his wife are both Salvation Army officers, working from the center on Petit Avenue in Ventura.
 
"The are three main parts to the Salvation Army," explained Fabio, "the church, social services, and disaster relief services." The Army's local humanitarian efforts include  a 44-bed transitional living center, senior apartments, and an outreach program for the homeless, among other projects. Fabio noted that he is currently working with the City of Ventura on a feasibility study to make use of a three-acre parcel of land adjacent to the Petit Avenue center. "Small things can change lives," he said. "My joy is when I can see people with hope."
 
Thank you, Fabio, for bringing the Salvation Army's vision of hope to Ventura Rotary South. For more information, visit ventura.salvationarmy.org.