Chambers receive 2017 Others Award
Connie and Bill Chambers, center, stand with Majors Mike and Cindy Dickinson, left, and Commissioners Kenneth G. and Jolene K. Hodder after receiving the 'Others Award' during the 2017 Season of Giving event at the Egan Center in Anchorage Nov. 30.
ANCHORAGE - The Salvation Army Alasaka Divison recognized Connie and Bill Chambers with the ‘Others Award’ during the 2017 Season of Giving event Nov. 30, at the Egan Center in Anchorage. The “Others” Award is rooted in the history of The Salvation Army, dating back to the early 1900s when General William Booth, the Army’s founder, wanted to send a word of encouragement and direction to his officers around the world. Wanting to be thrifty yet make his message clear, the general sent this one word telegram: “Others.” Following that history, The Salvation Army honors individuals or organizations exemplifying an extraordinary spirit of service to “others,” through support of The Salvation Army and the broader community.
For more than 30 years the Chambers have been involved in changing lives through their partnership with The Salvation Army. They have given countless hours of their time to every one of our events- from corralling volunteers, to making sure every event has a special touch and beauty beyond our imaginations, and that every event is recorded properly for the history of the Salvation Army Alaska Division. They do not hesitate when need calls. They willingly roll up their sleeves and give in times of need, as they have great faith in God and in the work of The Salvation Army. Their passion for The Salvation Army’s work is incredibly contagious.
Every year The Salvation Army hosts 3 fundraisers in the Anchorage area; the Teddy Bear Tea, Season of Giving and Transformed Treasures. Throughout the years, Bill and Connie have played vital roles in each of these events.
Together, the Chambers have found their own unique ways to support these functions, from generous monetary donations made at each of our events, to spending hours organizing volunteers, assembling stunning center pieces, and procuring donations. Bill has also spent countless hours over the years preserving the rich history of the Salvation Army as he has shared his beautiful gift of photography at every event.
The Chambers have made sponsorship donations for rooms at The Salvation Army’s McKinnell House, and the Anchorage Corps, and have shared a large and strategic donation for King’s Lake Camp at a desperate time of need. They bell ring at Christmas, they help at the Sears Angel Tree and they help at our annual GIFT distribution. Connie also faithfully serves as a member of the Advisory Board and on several committees.
The Chambers truly represent what the ‘Others Award’ embodies, the effort, love and belief that through their service, OTHERS lives will be changed.