Lock Haven Volunteers Honored at Salvation Army Dinner

When you volunteer three days a week to cook meals for hungry neighbors, you're not just helping. You're changing lives.

The Salvation Army in Lock Haven gathered its volunteers on May 11 for an evening that put gratitude front and center. Community members who donated countless hours throughout the year came together for the organization's annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner.

The celebration recognized volunteers who kept daily operations running, served families during Christmas, stood at donation kettles in the cold, and showed up week after week to help neighbors. Captain Jaclyn Brewer and staff presented awards to those whose commitment stood out.

Eiko Fetterer received the Volunteer of the Year Award for her extraordinary dedication. She volunteers three days every week, cooking for the More Than Bread program and helping run the food pantry that serves local families.

Mark Schlessinger earned the Community Partner of the Year Award for his annual "Mark the Shark Toy Drive." His efforts ensure hundreds of children in Lock Haven wake up to toys and gifts on Christmas morning, bringing joy to families who might otherwise go without.

The Ripple Effect

These volunteers represent something bigger than a single dinner or award. Their consistent service creates a safety net for an entire community. When Eiko shows up three times a week to cook, families know they'll have a warm meal. When Mark runs his toy drive each December, parents can give their kids the Christmas they deserve.

The Salvation Army's work depends entirely on people like them. Without volunteers stepping up to serve, cook, organize, and give their time, the programs that support Lock Haven's most vulnerable families wouldn't exist.

The dinner reminded everyone that volunteerism isn't just nice to have. It's the foundation that makes community care possible.

Anyone interested in joining these volunteers can call The Salvation Army at 570-748-2951 to learn about opportunities.