Lifting others

Alison Anthony

One of the great joys of working for The Salvation Army (TSA) is that wherever I go always meet someone who has volunteered for TSA. Last week I attended a workshop sponsored by the Association for Women in Communications, titled “Tulsa Women: Telling Our Story.” One of the panelists was Alison Anthony, director of diversity and community relations at The Williams Companies. She also chairs the Tulsa Area United Way's Women’s Leadership Council. And, most importantly, she volunteers with us during Christmas distribution. “Sometimes I have to wear my sunglasses inside,” she confessed. I told her that more than one volunteer has
been emotionally moved by the families who receive Christmas assistance.

Clydella Hentschel

In her presentation, Alison mentioned a new United Way award  founded in honor of Clydella Hentschel, a long-time donor and member of our advisory board. Clydella started contributing to our Christmas program three decades ago and has since supported practically every program we have. When I met Clydella for the first time, I had only been at The Salvation Army for a few weeks. She was rushing out of a meeting at our office, stopped when she saw my nametag, introduced herself and welcomed me. I appreciated her graciousness. Clydella is the first recipient of the award named in her honor. The award has the tagline “Lifting Others as You Climb.” With our wonderful volunteers and donors, we could give that award every day!

 -Sallie