Salvation Army holds annual Champions of Hope Luncheon
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – On Tuesday, the Salvation Army held its annual Champions of Hope Luncheon.
The event recognized this year’s Champion of Hope, Joe Davis, who has spent a long time with the Salvation Army but will soon be beginning a new chapter.
Davis is retiring from the Salvation Army and will be moving to Colorado to be closer to his daughter and 3 grandchildren.
He spent 22 years with the organization and reflected on the impact it made on his life.
“When I first got involved, I thought, well, this is going to be interesting trying to be involved with an organization that helps people, looks to, as I mentioned, give people a hand up and not just a handout. But what I found equally satisfying is the opportunity to collaborate with and to develop deep relationships with other people on our board,” said Davis.
Organizers say Davis’s commitment and generosity have helped strengthen the Salvation Army, and his impact will be missed by not only the nonprofit but the Bowling Green community as well.
“He is a pillar here, and so we just wanted to honor him as a champion of hope, as someone who gives hope to those who feel less fortunate and those that feel lost and the least,” said Salvation Army Captain Johnny Horton.
Along with being named this year’s Champion of Hope, Davis was also recognized with the Exceptional Service Award.
“He has compassion like none other. And for that, he was awarded the Exceptional Service Award, which is given only to a few people. And for that, we’re so grateful for his service, his integrity, and the way he works, and the compassion that he has for those coming to the Salvation Army,” said Salvation Army Captain Monica Horton.
Davis also wanted to share a message about the benefits of working with the Salvation Army
“It’s an opportunity to learn from others. It’s an opportunity to give financially, but it’s also an opportunity to get to know people. And I felt I’ve grown personally as a result of my service in the Salvation Army.”
