Taking hope far Beyond the Classroom

‘Beyond the Classroom’ is an innovative Salvation Army program working with primary and high school students in Tasmania – including more than 800 students from 28 Schools in the past year – to help them better understand the resources available and also the complex issues surrounding the poverty cycle, including homelessness, addiction, domestic violence and more.

The program is held on location at various Salvation Army services and includes inspiring real-life testimonies.

Sarah Davidson who coordinates the program says an important part of the program is a ‘call to action’ with students preparing care packs for people in need. “The packs are then distributed to homeless shelters and support agencies in the local area – giving students a chance to make a difference and to be part of the solution,” she says.

Rebuilding a life

Josie* is one of those supported by The Salvation Army, who has gone on to share her story of transformation with ‘Beyond the Classroom’ groups. She says she is determined to help educate young people on the effects of untreated trauma and mental health.

She says “My world started to change after dad had a stroke and became speech impaired. My dad had his own business and as a result of the stroke, our family lost everything.”

Josie spiralled into depression, then ‘toxic relationships’, self-medicating with alcohol and drugs, and lost her career. She says “At one stage I didn’t see any purpose being on the earth anymore.”

As part of rebuilding her life for her and her son, Josie took part in a range of support services, including the Salvation Army ‘Doorways to Parenting’ program.

Josie wants to share with students as part of giving back to the community, saying “Today I recognise God is my saviour, my parents as my heroes and The Salvation Army has made a huge difference. They have stood by me in so many ways – from housing, to advocacy, helping me get into training, back into the community, spiritually, with volunteer opportunities and emotionally – helping me through the whole journey.

Salvation Army programs and care can change a life.”

_{* This is a true story, although we have changed the name to protect the individual’s privacy.}

Supporter care

‘Beyond the Classroom’ is supported by the Bruce Wall Trust, which was established around 10 years ago and has supported The Salvation Army ever since.

Bruce Wall returned from war in 1945 and was given 500 acres at Longford/Cressy in Tasmania, then later bought another 500 acres next door. Bruce lived and managed the property ‘the Lake House’ for over 60 years and after he passed away, the property sold for over $4 million.

Trustee Brian Faulkner was very close to Bruce and is enthusiastic about the work of educating and supporting future generations.

What will your legacy be? To learn about how you can support the future work of The Salvation Army, please give our friendly team a call on 1800 337 082 or visit salvationarmy.org.au/wills