Last week's Guest Speaker: Major David Rogerson

Posted by Franz Huber on Sep 17, 2016
 
The Salvo's - one of the most established and trusted charities.  A Household name, they have been at the forefront of quietly providing support services for the less fortunate in our community.  In the 'olden days' their efforts would concentrate on homelessness and alcohol related problems.  For the past decade or so, sadly, another major issue has been added to their list of programs: supporting people who have been caught in the trap of drug abuse.
 
Last Wednesday, Major David Rogerson outlined one of the signature projects of The Salvation Army: the Turning Points Admission Centre in Southport.  In 2015/16, they had a massive 6,300 enquiries, including 828 walk-ins.  This figure is actually much greater, with reception overflow calls and drop-ins not recorded. Whilst the 61% males are not necessarily surprising, it is of serious concern that the age distribution is unexpected: one would expect the bulk to be young people: Not so - 21% are under 29, almost 60% are 30 - 49 years and 20% are 50 years plus.  "Ice (Crystal Methamphetamine) used to be just about 17% pure. Today it is about 60% pure, which results in a much higher rate of serious problems" Major Rogerson declared. 
 
David's career in the Salvation Army goes back some 25 years, of which 15 years was in Rehabilitation, the last 5 years in the Fairhaven Recovery Program on Mt Tamborine. And to complete a total commitment in the family: his wife is in charge of the Coomera Mission. The initial step to getting admittance is to undergo a 1 1/2 hours assessment at the Southport Assessment and Referral Centre. This doesn't just involve the current status, but the applicatant is subjected to a full check of their history, including criminal history. Successful clients go the the Fairhaven Withdrawal Unit for detoxification.  This unit of 11 beds is fully funded by the Queensland Government. It includes round the clock nursing and training programs during the day.  If deemed successful, they go home, if not, they may be referred to another program.  Download a full outline of the Fairhaven Recovery Program, provided by Rowan Johnstone, from the Download Section on the right.
 
Following Major Rogerson, Rowan Johnstone, who is in charge of Fundraising and Public Relations, briefly outlined the functions of his department. He needs 3 helpers:
  • 1 for their online volunteer system (a web based app that will revolutionize recruitment of collectors, collecting and receipting donations from suburban streets, shopping centres and other high traffic areas and in workplaces
  • 1 for their community collection points throughout the city
  • 1 for their schools and service club program.
4 meetings a year (tops) and a commitment on the Door knock weekend (May 27 & 28, 2017) to be hands on to oversee its success. Interested (or know anyone that could be)? Please contact Rowan on 0407 142 014.