Volunteer finds a Family at The Salvation Army
Raised in Arkansas, Sally Rice-Lemmie grew up in a family of nineteen. As anyone with a large family can attest, this made for many fond memories of a lively household bustling with activity. Through the trials and tribulations that life often brings, Sally learned just how important family is, not only caring for our families given at birth but also cultivating the relationships that we are drawn to throughout our lives. This sense of community instilled in her from an early age has always been a driving force in Sally’s desire to help others.
Consistent with her early roots, Sally’s life has always revolved around others. She pursued a career as a nurse while simultaneously starting a family of her own. Her then seemingly large family only continued to grow and grow. Sally is now a proud mother of five, a grandmother of 14, a great-grandmother of 21, and a great-great-grandmother of one! She worked hard to care for her family and continued to work tirelessly as a nurse until unexpected injuries and disability forced Sally into an early retirement. These unforeseen circumstances left Sally feeling as if she would never have the opportunity to help others again.
It was in 2001 that Sally found The Salvation Army. Despite still fighting some health challenges, Sally decided she wanted to volunteer and give back to the community. This was when she became a Bell Ringer in Carlsbad with The Salvation Army. This experience taught her that she could still be an important part of the community and begin to make a difference again. Sally continued to volunteer year after year, and during the 2015 holiday season, Sally increased her involvement by becoming a Senior Volunteer with The Salvation Army through the Senior Community Senior Employment Program. She has since been serving 20 hours per week with The Salvation Army in Downtown San Diego. She helps in Family Services and assists with office administration. Sally’s spark has been reignited, and she is again able to experience the joy of helping others!
Sally has discovered a way to help others again, and in the process, has healed herself. Sally’s health and vitality only continue to improve, and for one of the first times in her life, Sally is living away from her family. Although her family might be miles away, she will be the first to tell you that she now has found a new family and a place to call home with The Salvation Army! The staff and clients at The Salvation Army are forever grateful for the service, selflessness, and caring spirit that Sally has dedicated over the years!
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