10 April 2014

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UPDATED 21 May 2014 - A special thanks to all who attended the annual fundraiser for The Salvation Army in Tacoma. The “Fishes and Loaves” dinner brought many guests from the community together, to hear about the work of The Salvation Army in Pierce County.

Among the highlights of the evening was keynote speech by Doug Baldwin, wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks. He scored one of the touchdowns that led the Seahawks to victory in the Super Bowl against the Denver Broncos. He graduated from Stanford University and joined the Seahawks in 2011 as a rookie free agent. Originally from Gulf Breeze, Florida, he participated in Salvation Army programs as a kid, including the youth football league.

     

During the keynote speech, Mr. Baldwin shared his story about how The Salvation Army impacted his life and career. He also acknowledged the importance of The Salvation Army in a community. He said, "We know what an ‘army’ is. But let’s look at the middle word. The definition of ‘salvation’ is ‘the act of protecting people from harm.’ That’s what The Salvation Army is all about."

While reminiscing about his teammates on The Salvation Army football team in Florida, he spoke proudly of their success on the field and in the classroom. The after-school program at The Salvation Army helped them grow intellectually as well as physically. They all found success after The Salvation Army – some continued to play football in the NFL, but many went on to careers as doctors, lawyers, coaches, and more.

Mr. Baldwin’s modesty was evident throughout his speech. He said, “I play football. I don't get it when people give me accolades or want my autograph. I just play football. I don’t save lives. But these people (at The Salvation Army) are saving lives every day.” He concluded with a smile, “now don't get me wrong, I LOVE playing football!” and everyone laughed!

The event in Tacoma included a printed program for guests, which featured a personal essay by Doug Baldwin. He wrote the essay before the 2011 NFL draft, as he reflected on his football career – from playing at The Salvation Army in Florida to his success at Stanford. The essay is insightful and inspirational. We’ve shared it here on our website for your enjoyment.

Read Doug Baldwin's Essay By Clicking HERE.

     

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Original Story - “Loaves and Fishes” dinner on May 14 will raise funds to aid the needy in Pierce County

The Salvation Army in Tacoma welcomes Seattle Seahawks Wide Receiver Doug Baldwin as keynote speaker at its annual “Loaves and Fishes” fundraiser dinner.

The event, set for Wednesday, May 14, 5:30pm to 7:30pm, will raise funds to help the hungry, homeless and hopeless in Pierce County.

The 15th annual event will be held at the Foss Waterway Seaport, 705 Dock Street, on the Tacoma waterfront. Admission to the dinner is free, and attendees will be asked to make a donation to The Salvation Army. Money raised at the event will benefit The Salvation Army programs and services in the community.

Doug Baldwin scored one of the touchdowns that led the Seahawks to victory in the Super Bowl against the Denver Broncos. He graduated from Stanford University and joined the Seahawks in 2011 as a rookie free agent. Originally from Gulf Breeze, Florida, he participated in Salvation Army programs as a kid. During the keynote speech, Mr. Baldwin will share his story about how The Salvation Army impacted his life and career.

In addition to the keynote speech by Mr. Baldwin, the event will include an update on the work of The Salvation Army throughout the county, and a heart-warming story of a life changed by The Army. The evening’s buffet dinner will include food by local restaurants (Warthog BBQ, Picasso Catering, and Adriatic Grill) followed by a dessert dash.

The term “Loaves and Fishes” refers to the story in the bible of Jesus performing a miracle of turning a small amount of bread and fish into enough food to feed a multitude of people. Today, it reminds of us of our humble service to others.

After 125 years, The Salvation Army Tacoma Corps continues to be a valuable asset throughout Pierce County. In 2012, more than 77,000 residents depended on The Salvation Army for a variety of programs and services. More than 1,500 neighbors received shelter and housing assistance; almost 1,500 neighbors used the utility bill assistance program; and more than 39,000 people were fed through the Food Bank.

Major Don Shepard, Salvation Army Corps Officer in Tacoma, notes the importance of this aid, “These programs allow families in Pierce County to stay in their homes, while they continue to work hard to make ends meet.”

Admission to the dinner is free, but reservations are required. To reserve a space, please call The Salvation Army in Tacoma at 253-572-8452, ext. 112. Friends who can’t attend the event, but still wish to make a donation, should send contributions to The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 1254, Tacoma, WA, 98401.

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Wednesday, May 14  • 5:30-7:30 PM

Foss Waterway Seaport, 705 Dock Street, Tacoma Waterfront

Silent Auction  •  Dessert Dash  •  Surprise Keynote  •  Inspirational
Space is limited – reservations required, please click here.

For more information, please call: (253) 572-8452

Proceeds Benefit Ongoing Mission of The Salvation Army

NO CHARGE

 

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Unable To Attend This Year's Event - Consider Making An Online Donation!

The continued work of The Salvation Army relies on the generosity of our supporters. Every day, The Salvation Army is working hard to meet the needs of others throughout Washington state, northern Idaho and western Montana and we couldn't do it without donations from people such as you. The donation you make today will be used to help people in your local community and we appreciate every donation - large and small - as strive to do the most good.

Click HERE to make a donation. Thank you!

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Related:  Read Doug Baldwin's Story In His Own Words HERE.

Related:  Seattle Seahawks Left Tackle Russell Okung To Speak At Renton Fundraiser HERE.