VALDOSTA — The Salvation Army of Valdosta marked its 100th anniversary this past weekend with a series of events that brought the community together in celebration.
The festivities included a special ceremony, during which Mayor Scott James Matheson discussed the importance of the Salvation Army and the lengths the organization goes to for the people of Valdosta.
“The people of Valdosta are forever more compassionate, more loving, more caring, and definitely more blessed due to 100 years of faithful service from the Salvation Army,” Matheson said.
Matheson proceeded to read the proclamation recognizing Sept. 21, 2024, as the 100th anniversary of the organization’s efforts in Valdosta. The proclamation included a brief history of the Salvation Army and the organization’s mission statement.
Continuing the celebration, the Salvation Army hosted a block party on Saturday with food, music, games, and activities. The community was invited out to celebrate the occasion together.
Captain Judy Chung, who serves as a corps officer alongside her husband Hoon, took great pride in the weekend’s celebrations and meaning.
“For us to be here for 100 years is monumental. I am just so excited to see what the next 100 years will bring,” Chung said. “We are going to keep on spreading the gospel. If nothing else comes out of this celebration, we want to give the people Jesus.”