Service Projects: The Perfect Team Building Activity
I work in a large department at The Salvation Army Central Territory. The majority of us have a hybrid or fully remote work schedule and most interactions with co-workers take place via meetings in Teams, Zoom, or email. Once a year, we gather in-person for a few days to learn new things, share ideas, and collaborate on projects. We also participate in a team building activity.
This year we spent an afternoon at our Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) warehouse in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. Located in an industrial park, sandwiched between some of the country’s biggest manufacturing and distribution centers, 46 of us from across the country volunteered to help the local EDS staff members organize a large quantity of donated food items.
In any given year, The Salvation Army provides support, hope and healing to nearly 600,000 survivors and first responders nationally, so we knew our contribution would matter. When you volunteer, you’re making a commitment to share a precious resource—your time—to make life better for those who are in need.
When we arrived, the excitement among our group members was palpable. It’s one thing to talk about the good work we do, and another to be a part of it. During a quick orientation we learned that a community partner donates a large quantity of packaged snack items on a regular basis. Our task was to repackage those fruit bars, chips, beef jerky, cookies (and so much more!) into small boxes for easy storage and transportation.
The job was simple, but it was important. The Salvation Army canteens must always be ready to go, day or night. They are dispatched to provide comfort and hope through the distribution of food, hydration and spiritual support following a disaster. We all understood that our effort was a small part in a larger operation that strives to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
As co-workers, we quickly bonded over this activity. In a matter of minutes, we broke into small groups, developed a “system” to work efficiently together, and start tackling the project. There was laughter, storytelling, and lots of banter as we worked side-by-side. We marveled at the scope of EDS operations and were happy to exhibit The Salvation Army’s values through our actions. Because they really do speak louder than words.
Three hours later, we could feel a stronger connection with one another as a result of our participation in this service project. Many volunteers felt encouraged to return home and assist The Salvation Army in their local community. We left feeling good about our efforts and the time we spent together.
I’m convinced the desire to serve others is alive and well in the United States. But we need more leaders to step up and help orchestrate simple service projects like this one. I hope you will be inspired to gather your co-workers, friends, and family members and make a difference in our world.
Patricia Sims is the Territorial Media & Content Director at The Salvation Army USA Central Territory. To learn more about the programs and services we offer in the Midwest, visit our website. Or click to learn about donor and volunteer opportunities.