When you talk to Sean and Marilyn Furey, the word that leaps to mind is “passionate”.They’re passionate about Dartmouth and the vast potential of its’ people. Particularly those served by their Salvation Army ministry headquartered at the Dartmouth Community Church on Pleasant Street.
The Fureys embody the Army’s philosophy of “a hand-up, not a hand-out.” Some of the people they help can be self-conscious about receiving assistance in getting used-furniture, clothing, food, or whatever.“If that’s the case, I ask them, why don’t you help us pack the stuff…or help with clean-up, or what have you. A lot of them jump at the chance,” Sean says.
I found a lot of that sort of two-way collaboration when I visited the Fureys’ bi-weekly daycare program for parents and young children, called “Precious Moments.”
The positive impact the Fureys and their volunteer staff are having in Dartmouth can’t be adequately described here. A brief video may do some of their story a little justice (click below).
But I think there’s something the video won’t be able to adequately tell. Something that was so evident during my two hours there.
Despite the oppressive backgrounds of many of the parents, and the lack of a lot of daily resources—including an active second-parent, I was overcome by their complete serenity and joy during these “precious moments.”
It was inescapable. It was as if everyone was in heaven. It’s too bad it only happens every second Thursday. Take a look.
-Ron
Ron Zima ADpPR
Major Gifts Representative
Salvation Army, Maritimes Division
ron_zima@can.salvationarmy.org
For more details on the Salvation Army, visit:
Salvation Army, Maritimes Division
