by Hugo Bravo

Do you feel your mood and behavior change with the seasons? As the days get colder and shorter in the winter months, people may start to feel down or even depressed, only to brighten up as spring brings back warmer weather and longer days. These mood changes can affect someone’s life in a serious way, changing how they think, work, and interact with others.

by Warren L. Maye

Linda Evans Shepherd is a firm believer in the power of prayer. Her latest book, Make Time for Joy: Scripture-Powered Prayers to Brighten Your Day, can be looked at as a daily devotional or as a resource to turn to in times of need. “I took these scriptures, paraphrased them in modern vernacular, and put them into conversational prayers,” she said in a recent interview with SAconnects.

by Robert Mitchell

The city of Pittsburgh is home to almost 450 bridges. Known as the “City of Bridges,” Pittsburgh sits at the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers. So, it seems appropriate that The Salvation Army’s Pittsburgh Temple would be trying to build bridges to the church from its popular new choice food pantry, which opened last year.

by Hugo Bravo

Looking to decorate the walls of your home, dorm room, or rental space? Your local Salvation Army thrift store is a great place to start. You can find unique and interesting paintings, artwork, photography, and framed posters for a fraction of the cost you’d pay at art galleries or antique stores. 

by Warren L. Maye

"I have learned how to listen for the voice of God and say ‘yes’ to the Holy Spirit. That is what’s been leading me on this journey,” said Paul A. Jordan, a former firefighter and Emergency Disaster Services employee for The Salvation Army in Pennsylvania. “I never thought that I’d end up in prison, but I am here. But while I’m here, I’m hearing the voice and reading the word of God.” 

by Warren L. Maye

Co–authors Jeanne Segal, Ph.D., and Lawrence Robinson believe volunteering to a worthy cause brings deep gratification and fulfillment. In a recent article entitled “Volunteering and its surprising benefits,” they wrote, “The right match can help you to find friends, connect with the community, learn new skills, and even advance your career.”

by Guest Contributor

by Katie Perrett

For volunteers, the desire to serve, help, and reach others in need comes from an internal focus on their everyday mission rather than from a mandate. Such service aligns with their core values and belief systems.

by Warren L. Maye

Sterling C. Green Jr. is one of several concierges who graciously help guests find their way around the sprawling Hershey Lodge, part of Chocolatetown and Hersheypark in Hershey, Pa.