Flaco Guapo Media
Story, photos by and permission from Conexión San Ángelo
SAN ANGELO – The definition of altruism, means “the principle or practice or unselfish concern for; or devotion to the welfare of others,” was never more evident than at Wednesday evening’s 5:30 p.m. Thanksgiving dinner (November 21) provided by the San Angelo Salvation Army, its’ staff and more than 40 volunteers who gathered together for the welfare of others needs above their own to make their Thanksgiving a thankful one.
Left-to-right: Daisy Lara, Janet Sheen and Melodie Lane, San Angelo Salvation Army staff members.
Three Salvation Army representatives were interviewed: Melodie lane, Daisy Lara and Janet Sheen who assisted in serving those who turned out to enjoy this delicious meal: turkey and dressing, mashed potatoes, green beans, dinner rolls, pecan pie and tea.
Lane, Salvation Army Residential Services Manager, was asked if there was anything done different this year compared to 2017’s annual Thanksgiving. “We have had a lot more volunteers.” “In the past it was hard to get them” said Melodie.
Left-to-right: Gabrialla, daughter, Casey, dad, Izzaabella, sister and Crystal Armor, mother.
Lane stated that she was overwhelmed with calls every day as people wanted to volunteer in serving their fellow community members. Case in point, Casey and Crystal Armor, brought their daughters: Issabella, age 9 and Gabriella, age 5, because the Armor’s wanted their children to “serve and learn the value of serving” said Crystal.
As for Miss Sheen, newly hired two weeks ago as the community relations development coordinator, Janet rolled up her sleeves and pitched right in as she greeted and made everyone feel like family as if she had known them all her life.
Daisy, who is the Salvation Army’s Food Services coordinator, said she was so thankful to be the coordinator of food services because she loves to cook. Daisy was permanently hired two weeks ago through the Work Force Commission which has a program that provides training to learn a field.
“Our motto is we always treat the people with kindness and they all deserve a warm meal and the best that we can provide for them” Melodie said. “I want to say thank you to everyone who donated, whether food or their time to volunteer” concluded Lara.
That’s altruism is in its purest form, unselfish concern for and devotion for the welfare of others.