A Shield Is a mentor

“The Junior Advisory Board was formed to make sure the younger generation is aware of — and becoming involved with — The Salvation Army.” Clarke Michalak has been volunteering with the Army’s Junior Advisory Board since its inception in 2009. Now numbering more than 30 members, the Board supports the Army with regular volunteer, fundraising and social events throughout the year. “One of my favorite activities is conducting practice job interviews to help residents of the Harbor Light Center be better prepared to re-enter the job market.”

The Salvation Army’s Harbor Light Center is one of the largest and most respected residential substance abuse recovery programs in the country. It provides a series of programs that enable residents to set and achieve personal objectives to overcome their illnesses, transform their lives and return to the community as productive citizens.

“In the mock interviews, we help individuals preparing to return to society with their job search and interview skills, giving them feedback on their performance in terms of professionalism and communications.” In addition to being impressed with the quality of the job candidates, Clarke is very impressed with the Army itself. “I love the selflessness of the Army. They help so many people in so many different ways, giving of their time, resources and skills with no desire for recognition or compensation.”